Initial tests of Apple’s new Adaptive Power Mode in the iOS 26 beta have shown that the feature makes little to no difference in extending battery life. The new mode, which is designed to make performance adjustments like lowering screen brightness and slowing down background activity, was expected to give iPhones a significant boost in longevity. However, tests conducted on an iPhone 16 Pro Max found the feature’s only noticeable benefit was the automatic activation of Low Power Mode at 20% battery.
The author of the article, José Adorno, suggests that the feature may not have been designed with current-generation iPhones in mind. Instead, it may be intended for the rumored, ultra-thin iPhone 17 Air, which is expected to have a smaller battery. The iPhone 17 Air is also anticipated to feature a more power-efficient processor and a new Apple C1 5G modem, which could allow Adaptive Power Mode to more effectively manage cellular connectivity—a major cause of battery drain.
While the feature’s performance in its current beta state is underwhelming, the article notes that results could improve with future software updates. For now, however, the promise of significant battery life improvements from Adaptive Power Mode seems to be tied to future hardware releases rather than current devices.
