Don't update! iOS 26.2.1 causing serious problems — including crashes and freezes

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iOS 26 logo on the home screen of an iPhone
(Image credit: Shutterstock)

Apple released iOS 26.2.1 for the public last week, but if you haven't updated yet, you may want to hold off. A number of users are reporting that the latest iOS build is causing some serious issues.

The update was meant to add support for the newly released AirTag 2 trackers and some bug fixes, but for some, it may have broken things. Reported issues run the gamut from crashing or freezing apps to battery drain and strange information reporting.

  • Apple Maps is losing saved places and favorites
  • Face ID authentication gaps in third-party apps
  • Control Center and HomeKit triggers are not responding as expected.
  • Irregular storage reporting followed by sudden spikes or drops.
  • Apps crashing
  • Phone rebooting repeatedly
  • Slower or unstable device

We found on the official Apple support forums several threads including one about connectivity failure. Or this one where a user described nearly issue listed above.

One Reddit thread is titled "iOS 26.2.1 fees like a user experiment. "The whole thing feels more like a user experiment than a stable operating system. It's a real shame in my opinion, I regret updating to the new version!" the original poster wrote.

It's not clear how widespread this issue actually is. The Apple support threads are mostly shut down or coupled in with other general iOS 26 issues and the Reddit threads aren't taking in huge numbers.

Still, if you haven't updated, maybe hold off. Especially since you can't downgrade if you are having problems with iOS 26.2.1.

Additionally, as MacObserver notes, iOS 26.3 should arrive soon which may fix any lingering issues with this most recent update. Currently, iOS 26.3 is in its public beta which usually only lasts for a couple of weeks before the stable build is released.

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Scott Younker
Scott Younker
West Coast Reporter

Scott Younker is the West Coast Reporter at Tom’s Guide. He covers all the lastest tech news. He’s been involved in tech since 2011 at various outlets and is on an ongoing hunt to build the easiest to use home media system. When not writing about the latest devices, you are more than welcome to discuss board games or disc golf with him. He also handles all the Connections coverage on Tom's Guide and has been playing the addictive NYT game since it released.

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