Core Viewpoint - The release of iOS 26 has sparked significant criticism regarding its design and performance, particularly due to the new "Liquid Glass" visual language, which many users find unattractive and performance-intensive [2][4][6]. Design and User Experience - iOS 26 introduces a new visual language called "Liquid Glass," which aims to enhance interaction through glass-like effects, but has been criticized for its aesthetic appeal [6][9]. - The system features a lens effect that distorts text and visuals as users interact with the interface, creating a unique but potentially overwhelming user experience [9][10]. - Despite its visual intricacies, the design has been compared unfavorably to outdated Android themes, leading to widespread user dissatisfaction [4][6]. Performance Issues - The new features in iOS 26 demand significantly higher performance from devices, leading to overheating and lag, particularly on older models [17][20]. - Users have reported that even high-end devices like the iPhone 15 Pro Max struggle with the demands of iOS 26, experiencing noticeable slowdowns and increased heat generation during use [17][19][26]. - The system's reliance on complex animations and effects has raised concerns about its suitability for older devices, effectively creating a "performance discrimination" against them [31][33]. Historical Context - The issues with iOS 26 echo past experiences with major iOS updates, such as iOS 7, which similarly led to performance complaints from users on older devices [30][34]. - The trend of new iOS versions requiring more powerful hardware has been a recurring theme, with each iteration seemingly pushing the limits of existing devices [30][34]. Competitive Landscape - The performance of Apple's A18 Pro chip has been called into question, especially when compared to competitors like Qualcomm's Snapdragon 8 series, which outperforms it in various benchmarks [34][37]. - The upcoming A19 Pro chip is expected to improve performance, but concerns remain about whether it will adequately support the demands of iOS 26 [39].