Apple released iOS 26.2.1 last week, bringing support for AirTag 2 and a handful of bug fixes. While most users report a smooth experience, a small minority are seeing new issues after updating their iPhones.
Reports from Reddit, Apple Support forums, and Mac Observer suggest that some devices are experiencing app crashes, freezes, connectivity problems, and severe battery drain.
Common issues users are reporting:
- Apple Maps: Saved places and favourites disappearing
- Face ID: Authentication problems in third-party apps
- Control Centre & HomeKit: Triggers not responding correctly
- Storage reporting: Sudden spikes or drops in available space
- Device stability: Apps crashing or repeated reboots
A few users say their iPhones became noticeably slower or unstable after updating.
How widespread is the problem?
So far, it seems relatively limited. For example:
- Two Apple Support threads currently have 160 and 46 users reporting similar issues
- A Reddit discussion has 286 upvotes and 80 comments
Even if the affected group is small, it’s enough to suggest there’s a real problem for some iPhone owners.
Apple has not publicly commented on these reports yet, but we’ll update this post if a response or fix becomes available.
If you’re experiencing crashes, freezes, or abnormal battery drain after installing iOS 26.2.1, it may be worth monitoring Apple forums or temporarily avoiding the update if your device hasn’t been upgraded yet.
Unfortunately, there’s no way to downgrade to iOS 26.2 either as Apple has stopped signing the firmware.
