iOS Updates So Bad? (Make Phone Worse, Needed)


Apple has always upped its game to stay ahead of the competition, and one advantage it has had over the years is the constant and timely updates to users. Usually, owners would make the patches instantly, some even automating the process. However, the number of users updating their devices has recently drastically declined.

So, why are iOS Updates so bad? iOS updates aren’t inherently bad; they introduce new features, fix bugs, and enhance security. However, users may face compatibility issues with older devices, encounter bugs, need to adapt to changes, or experience installation problems. Overall, updates are essential for maintaining device security.

It is not accurate to say that iOS updates are inherently bad. In fact, iOS updates serve important purposes, such as introducing new features, improving performance, fixing bugs, and enhancing security. However, some users may encounter issues or have negative experiences with specific updates, which could lead to the perception that they are bad. Some reasons for such issues include:

  1. Compatibility issues: Sometimes, older devices may struggle to run the latest updates, leading to performance issues or decreased battery life. Apple typically optimizes updates for newer devices, which might affect older models.
  2. Bugs and glitches: Despite extensive testing, some updates may inadvertently introduce new bugs or glitches, causing temporary issues for users. Apple usually addresses these problems in subsequent updates.
  3. Adaptation: New updates may bring changes to the user interface or functionality, requiring users to adapt and learn new ways of navigating their device. This can lead to initial frustration or confusion.
  4. Installation problems: Occasionally, users might experience difficulties while installing updates, such as failed downloads or frozen screens. These issues can often be resolved by troubleshooting or attempting the update again.

iOS 14 and 15 updates have had several challenges, with users complaining that they affected their devices’ performance. There are concerns about updates slowing down the system, taking up a lot of storage, causing battery issues, and interfering with some first-party applications.

It is important to note that while some users may experience issues with specific updates, many others benefit from the improvements and new features they bring. Regularly updating your iOS device helps ensure that you have the most up-to-date security features and optimizations available.

You may also experience frequent crashes, Bluetooth and Wi-Fi problems, and other hiccups. Still, the updates are necessary security patches and offer users more improved features on their iPhones and iPads.

Years ago, users would never hesitate to accept Apple’s security patches, but they are now uncertain whether it is the right thing for their phones. Digging deeper into the customers’ complaints and what Apple had to say, let’s delve in to find out more.

Looking at the previous records from Apple, you will notice that users installed updates soon after release, mainly on the same day. Apple enjoyed the fast assimilation, but there was a gradual decline in the numbers. After the release of versions 14 and 15, figures dropped to as low as 40%.

Several reasons explain the lack of faith in iOS 14 and 15 updates, but the main complaints are how the new operating systems affect the device. In the most recent update, the iOS 15 has been faulted by owners for poor memory management and causing battery issues.

The parental control feature was also accused of invading user privacy. Another challenge with iOS updates is how Apple insists on users making updates to the entire system rather than for individual applications. Lastly, some owners accused Apple of making previous systems slower after releasing new updates. 

The slow rate to install updates and some users declining to upgrade is a significant hurdle for Apple. If the users were quick to accept it, the manufacturer would know that they are satisfied with the services and look forward to what the new system has in store.

It assures Apple that the users trust the service and believe it will improve their device usage. Unfortunately, customers are not receptive to iOS 14 and 15 and have logical explanations.

The new iOS has had several challenges, making other users hesitant to download them. For instance, some iPhone and iPad owners complained of battery performance issues and poor memory management soon after updating iOS 15.

The parental control feature was also not accepted, citing privacy invasion in how it scanned iCloud photos. Users were also quick to point out the change in tune by Apple after it allowed security patches and not iOS updates.

After releasing iOS 15, Apple gave users an option to make security updates such that they could upgrade to a more secure version of iOS 14. However, you now have to accept iOS 15 as the only choice.

Another challenge is how Apple makes updates where the entire system must update with other applications simultaneously. It seems outdated because most companies now allow apps to update individually without necessarily involving the operating system.

If Apple could let the apps update independently, maybe making updates would not seem too hectic for users. If Apple wants to go back to when users accepted new operating systems faster, it should strive to provide more improved quality control and look into the users’ complaints to improve the services. Otherwise, the iPhone and iPad owners will keep hesitating to install updates.

iOS updating decisions

When new verions of iOS are available, Apple advises users to download it. However, many will wait it out, uncertain whether it is a great idea, whilst others will simply download it.  

Updating your iOS is generally recommended. Updates provide new features, performance enhancements, bug fixes, and important security patches. Staying up-to-date helps protect your device and ensures a smooth user experience. However, you may want to wait a few days after a release to check for any reported issues before updating.

Updating is personal, but Apple uses the upgrades for security fixes, and holding off may put your device at risk. They are also essential to fix bugs in the system causing issues like random freezes. The best part about updating your device is enjoying Apple’s improved features.

However, based on user complaints, it is still best to take some time before updating, waiting for a few days as you prepare adequately. You may have to back up your data first and never update if you are traveling or urgently need your phone because there may be unexpected hiccups.

Although there are concerns about the updates leading to performance issues on your device, it doesn’t take away all the positive aspects of upgrading your iPhone or iPad. Years ago, users would instantly download them on the same release day and make automatic settings to avoid missing out on any new features.

The problem arose when Apple admitted that the upgrades could slow down older systems, making owners cautious about it.

Therefore, it is common for users to wait for days before downloading the system. The current iOS 15.5 is up for installation, and regardless of the concerns, Apple has ensured that it offers better services.

It features security and bug fixes and comes with several excellent new capabilities that you can have if you missed a few previous updates. The fixes solve Bluetooth and Wi-Fi issues, handle unwarranted freezes, and fix other application problems.

You can also enjoy enhanced features like advancements in the Face ID for iPhone 13 and 13 Series, allowing the device to unlock when you have a mask on. Siri also upgraded in version 15.4, and you can alter the default voice and make other adjustments from the settings.

Apple promises an improved experience, but it is still vital to update with caution. It helps to prepare your device first because there are still chances of hiccups after downloading the update.

You can start by backing up your data in case anything goes wrong. You should also know that a section of users is worried that updating has led to issues with their iPhones and iPads. You can expect challenges with battery draining too fast, cellular data issues, and other hiccups when using first-party applications like Face ID.

Due to the unforeseen glitches, you can wait it out. Also, it may not be a great time to update if you urgently need your phone for work or are traveling with it.

iOS update issues

Newer iOS updates come with unique features for iPhone and iPad users. Installing a new operating system only impacts the software part of your iDevice, while the hardware remains untouched. The upgrades, as enticing as they might be, sometimes face backlash, and here is what to make of the complaints. 

iOS updates are primarily designed to improve your device’s performance, security, and user experience. However, in some cases, updates might introduce temporary issues or affect older devices differently. These issues are typically addressed in subsequent updates. Overall, it’s still advisable to update your iOS to maintain security and benefit from enhancements and new features.

Making iOS updates on devices over two years old may be challenging. The upgrade will likely slow down your phone and overeat into your battery, and it has improved features that take up huge storage space in your device.

Also, you will likely experience frequent crashes and touchscreen issues, among other performance hitches. Updating your iPhone is a great idea, but you cannot tell the impact it will have on your iDevice, especially if it is a few years older than the iOS you want.

New iOS is best for use with newer phones with more advanced hardware to handle all the demanding features of the update. Unfortunately, installing the software in your old iDevice may not end up well since it requires hardware capabilities that your cellphone may fail to offer.

If you decide to upgrade anyway, you may have to deal with numerous glitches that you would otherwise avoid by sticking to your previous program.

Specific iOS immensely consumes power, forcing you to charge your iPhone or iPad twice or thrice daily. Besides extreme battery consumption, you may also suffer unusual lagging while using the handset and slow speeds while surfing the internet or using specific applications. Additionally, after upgrading to the latest iOS, you will need to do the same for your other applications.

Unfortunately, new programs are possibly more extensive and can consume a lot of space, contributing to your device slowing down. You may also get a frequent alert wanting you to free up more space.

Additionally, the iOS may affect how settings appear in your phone’s control center, remove or replace some of your most preferred emojis, or reduce the responsiveness of your keyboard, among other hitches.

It is best to be skeptical and carefully weigh the positive and negative impacts of updating to newer iOS. If vulnerability issues and improved system features don’t matter much to you, you should be OK with your current OS.

You can avoid upgrades unless you are experiencing glitches with your old device. However, if the new features and advanced safety protocols offered by the latest iOS are vital to you, you don’t have to wait it out. 

You can compromise on the possible bugs that may accompany the advanced software. Thankfully, most of the adverse effects of newer iOS are fixable through simple procedures. For instance, you can restart your iPhone and free up more space to reduce lag, and if the problems persist, you can restore the device to help solve most of the iOS-related issues.

iOS 14 issues

Version 14 of Apple’s operating system is among the latest releases succeeding iOS 13. Some users cite several downsides regarding its performance on compatible Apple devices. In this last section, finding the truth behind these allegations is critical. 

Some users state that the iOS 14 is terrible because of related flaws like Wi-Fi issues, reduced battery life, installation problems, Bluetooth, Data, and FaceTime hiccups. The hitches are usually minor and repairable; besides, the downsides do not outweigh the positives.

It’s not accurate to claim that iOS 14 is entirely bad, as it introduced various new features, improvements, and security updates. However, some users experienced issues, which can contribute to the perception that it was problematic. Common issues with iOS 14 included:

  1. Bugs and glitches: As with any software release, some users encountered bugs and glitches. Apple worked to resolve these in subsequent updates.
  2. Compatibility: Older devices might have had performance issues or reduced battery life after updating.
  3. Adaptation: New features and interface changes required users to adjust, which might have caused initial frustration.

Despite these issues, many users found iOS 14 beneficial due to its improvements and features. Apple continuously works to address problems and enhance the user experience through updates.

Like most Apple operating systems, iOS 14 is excellent at enhancing user experience, but it also has its fair share of bugs that the manufacturer works around the clock to fix. 

iOS 14 may be flawed in some instances, but that doesn’t mean you should not download it. The upgrade addresses iPhone users’ core interests, which you may only enjoy if you successfully install and use it.

The bugs that label the operating system flawed are mainly settings-related or rebooting issues. Fortunately, Apple has various software for iOS users, and if you don’t find one option suitable, you can always try alternatives.

iOS 14 may impact your cellphone’s battery life which is quite usual with most operating systems. Whenever you download a new OS, your phone’s cell may lose its strength by a small percentage.

It happens because the new applications and hardware try to adjust to the new norm. If the cell drains extremely fast, adjusting the screen backlight and restricting background refresh may help manage the loss.

Continued cell drainage will, however, necessitate expert help. You can visit an Apple Store for inquiries on the battery exchange program. Furthermore, if your iOS 14 has Bluetooth issues, you can forget the connection and link it again. From the Settings,

  • click Bluetooth
  • choose the circled ‘i’
  • finally, select “Forget This Device” and try reconnecting.

Resetting your iDevice’s network settings may also assist. Additionally, like Bluetooth issues, delinking and reconnecting the Wi-Fi network might be effective, and you can detach and reattach the router if the problem persists.

Once you are experiencing Wi-Fi and cellular data issues, it will interrupt your FaceTime sessions since you won’t have a clear connection with other users. It is easy to tweak the settings on the phone’s internet programs to solve this.

If the iOS 14 bugs persist, you can either upgrade or factory reset the handset and start everything afresh. Apple created various updates under iOS 14 to make the operating system run smoothly.

Some of the issues the software’s newer versions addressed include optimized battery life and charging, latency hiccups, browser and email settings, and Bluetooth and security updates. Within iOS 14, minor upgrades fix most system software issues.

Bottomline

Given the grievances you must have heard from other iPhone and iPad users, it is expected to be unsure about updating your iDevice to the latest version. It is warranted because no one wants to use a gadget with frequent performance issues. Regardless of the hiccups, not all users have the same complaints, and they attest that updating improved their experience.

You can also try updating to enjoy some of these perks. You will have security patches on your device and enhanced features from Apple’s applications. However, it is not a great idea if you are traveling with your phone or using it for work because, in case of anything, you will have to wait a while before you can use it again.

Bal Kang

Bal Kang is a technology expert based in the UK, with experience across a number of technology areas from phones, tablets, computers to gaming.

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