Apple introduced Adaptive Power with iOS 26, a feature designed to help iPhone users get more out of their battery throughout the day. Instead of relying on manual battery-saving modes, Adaptive Power uses on-device intelligence to monitor charging patterns and usage behavior, automatically adjusting performance and system activity in real time.
This means the iPhone can dynamically fine-tune background processes, screen brightness, and app activity when needed, extending battery life without requiring users to turn on Low Power Mode manually. The feature is integrated into the existing battery settings, making it easy to enable or disable.
How Adaptive Power works in iOS 26
Adaptive Power is built on machine learning that recognizes how you use and charge your iPhone over time. For example, if you typically charge your phone overnight and use it heavily in the afternoon, the feature will optimize performance around those habits. Adjustments include:
- Managing CPU and GPU performance during periods of low activity
- Reducing display brightness automatically when appropriate
- Pausing or limiting background refresh and notifications
- Ensuring apps and processes don’t consume excessive power
The goal is to balance battery longevity with smooth performance, so you notice minimal disruption in daily use.
Compatible iPhone models
Adaptive Power is supported on select devices running iOS 26. Compatibility is split by default settings depending on hardware efficiency:
- Enabled by default: iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Pro, iPhone 17 Pro Max, iPhone Air
- Available but off by default: iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Plus, iPhone 16 Pro, iPhone 16 Pro Max, iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro Max
Older models running iOS 26 do not support Adaptive Power.
How to enable or disable Adaptive Power
To check or change Adaptive Power settings on your iPhone:
- Open the Settings app.
- Scroll down and tap Battery.
- Select Power Mode.
- Toggle Adaptive Power on or off as preferred.
If your device is among those where Adaptive Power is on by default, you can still manually turn it off.
Adaptive Power notifications
With iOS 26 Adaptive Power, Apple also included a notification system. When the iPhone detects that it’s switching into or out of Adaptive Power, you’ll see a banner or Lock Screen notification letting you know. This gives users visibility into when the system is conserving energy and what changes are being applied.
Notifications are designed to be informational rather than disruptive. For example, you may see messages like “iPhone is adjusting performance to help extend your battery life.” If users don’t want these alerts, they can manage them under Settings > Notifications > Battery, where Adaptive Power notifications are grouped.
Frequently asked questions
Does Adaptive Power affect performance?
Yes, but only during times when system optimization is necessary. The changes are subtle and designed to extend battery life without noticeably slowing the device.
How is this different from Low Power Mode?
Low Power Mode reduces performance and disables background features system-wide, while Adaptive Power makes real-time adjustments automatically and intelligently.
Can I use both Adaptive Power and Low Power Mode?
Yes, but Low Power Mode will override Adaptive Power when active.
Does Adaptive Power work on iPad with iPadOS 26?
No, Adaptive Power is currently exclusive to iPhone models.
Will Adaptive Power reduce battery health degradation?
It is designed for day-to-day power efficiency rather than long-term battery health, though avoiding frequent deep discharges may indirectly help.
