iOS 26.1 In-Depth: Feature Updates, the Slide Over Controversy, and Real User Feedback

Ethan Carter
Nov 5
5 min read

Introduction: The Most "Controversial" Update?

In October 2025, Apple officially rolled out the iOS 26.1 update. This release, covering iOS and iPadOS, aimed not only to introduce new features but also to address early bugs from the major September release. However, the update has created a massive rift within the community. While some new features have been praised, changes to multitasking on iPadOS—specifically to the core Slide Over feature—have ignited fierce debate.

iOS 26.1 Changelog Overview

Visual/UI Changes

With the introduction of iOS 26.1, Apple has made it possible to further customize the Liquid Glass design on your iPhone. By accessing Settings > Display Brightness Liquid Glass you can select between a Clear or Tinted design. Apple describes the Clear option as "more transparent, revealing the content beneath," while the Tinted choice "increases opacity and adds more contrast."

New Features

Disable Lock Screen Camera:The iOS 26.1 update includes a new toggle to help prevent unintentional access to your Camera from the Lock Screen. To find this option go to Settings > Camera where you'll see the toggle for Lock Screen Swipe to Open Camera.

Alarm Interface Change (iOS 26.1 alarm change):Apple updated the interface of alarms and timers in iOS 26.1. There's now a Slide to Stop bar on the Lock Screen instead of a tap to stop button. You can still snooze an alarm with a tap on the oversized button, but to turn it off entirely, you need to use a slide gesture that requires more dexterity.

Expanded Language Support:iOS 26.1 extends Apple Intelligence functionalities to additional languages, including Chinese (traditional), Danish, Dutch, Norwegian, Portuguese (Portugal), Swedish, Turkish, and Vietnamese.

The Great Debate: Slide Over and iPadOS 26.1

The biggest point of contention in this update is the iPadOS multitasking experience.

The Return of Slide Over After User Backlash

Apple is reintroducing an iPad functionality that was eliminated in the iPadOS 26 update. The Slide Over feature allows users to effortlessly slide an application in and out from the edge of the screen. Apple's latest iPadOS 26.1 beta 2 release has restored the beloved multitasking feature that allows apps to float over the main screen, following months of user frustration and feedback.

The New Implementation

Now, Slide Over is seamlessly integrated into the revamped windowing system of iPadOS 26. Users can also adjust the size of the application window. However, a limitation exists: the reintroduced Slide Over currently supports only one app at a time.

To bring Slide Over back, you first need to make sure your iPad, running the iPadOS 26.1 update, is in "Windowed Apps" mode. Then open up an app, press and hold the traffic light icons in the upper-left corner, and then tap "Enter Slide Over." Now, the app will still float above another app or split-screen apps, but it can be hidden to the left or right of your iPad's screen with a swipe.

Performance and Stability: Major Bug Fixes

The iOS 26.1 update addresses several bugs from the previous version, iOS 26.0.1, including keyboard issues and a problem that could cause devices to unexpectedly enter sleep mode while using certain applications on the Lock Screen.

Security Improvements

Apple has introduced iOS 26.1, accompanied by an urgent recommendation for users to update immediately. This latest version brings a variety of new features, but it also includes an impressive 56 security patches for iPhone users.

According to Adam Boynton, senior security strategy manager for EMEIA at Jamf, iOS 26.1 is categorized as "a substantial update," addressing over 50 security vulnerabilities affecting the Apple Neural Engine and WebKit.

Battery Life and System Performance

Apple has made significant progress with battery stability in iOS 26.1. Earlier versions of iOS 26 caused faster battery drain, but this update fixes the issue through deep system optimisation. However, initial feedback on iOS 26.1 has been mixed. One Reddit user reported that the software feels "much faster, with noticeable performance improvements" on their iPhone 17 Pro. However, others have indicated that problems persist with the keyboard.

Additional Features

Fitness App:You can now create fully custom workouts in the Fitness app on iPhone. There are options for selecting workout type, estimated Active Calories, effort, duration, and start time.

Safari:The Tab Bar (Bottom) in Safari is wider with less padding around the edges, so there's less wasted space.

Background Security Improvements:The Privacy and Security section of the Settings app has a toggle to automatically download and install security improvements. It's a revamp of the prior Rapid Security Responses feature that allows Apple to provide security updates without having to offer a full new version of iOS.

Conclusion and Outlook

With the release of iOS 26.1, Apple has begun preparations for iOS 26.2, expected to debut in January 2026. In the interim, Apple may issue another update containing bug fixes and security enhancements in December, designated as iOS 26.1.1.

FAQ: Common Questions About iOS 26.1

Q1: Why did Apple bring back Slide Over in iPadOS 26.1?

It seems that Apple received enough feedback from iPad users longing for the feature, leading to its reappearance the beta of iPad 26.1. Whether Apple heard feedback or just came to its own senses, Slide Over is now back as part of the iPadOS 26.1 update.

Q2: Does iOS 26.1 improve battery life?

Apple has made significant progress with battery stability in iOS 26.1. Earlier versions of iOS 26 caused faster battery drain, but this update fixes the issue through deep system optimisation. However, background processes continue for 3-5 days indexing files and cause battery drain, lag, and increased heat after an update.

Q3: What's new with the alarm interface (iOS 26.1 alarm change)?

The interface has been updated with a "Slide to Stop" bar on the Lock Screen instead of a tap to stop button. You can still snooze an alarm with a tap on the oversized button, but to turn it off entirely, you need to use a slide gesture that requires more dexterity.

Q4: Should I update now?

The iOS 26.1 update represents one of the most significant security enhancements seen in recent times, incorporating 50+ security fixes for iPhones. Experts state: "Do not hesitate to install iOS 26.1."

Q5: Can the Liquid Glass effect be turned off?

It cannot be completely disabled at this time. You can only switch between "Clear" and "Tinted" modes to adjust its opacity.