The iOS 26 update introduces a very crucial feature for your iPhone that can help squeeze out some extra battery life when your device is low on power and asking to be plugged in. The feature is called Adaptive Power Mode, and if you want to learn how to use it to extend your iPhone's battery, then take a look at the steps below.
What is Adaptive Power Mode and why use it?
When you turn on Adaptive Power Mode, iOS will make performance adjustments when it detects that your battery is draining faster than usual. These adjustments include lowering screen brightness, activating Low Power Mode, and allowing some apps to take longer to process tasks to extend battery life.
Since it kicks in automatically, you don't have to turn on Adaptive Power Mode manually. However, you can enable notifications for this feature, so your iPhone alerts you when the feature is working. Whether you have a new iPhone or are using an old one, I would highly recommend using this feature for the following reasons:
- Adaptive Power Mode will help your iPhone last longer, especially at times when you are away from the charger.
- It will also automatically turn on Low Power Mode when your iPhone reaches 20% battery.
- Besides the battery, Adaptive Power Mode will also ensure that your iPhone does not heat up by managing performance.
How to turn on Adaptive Power Mode on your iPhone
If you are looking for where to find the Adaptive Power Mode on your iPhone, then here's a quick guide to help you out.
- Open the Settings app on your iPhone and head over to Battery > Power Mode.

- Here, turn on the Adaptive Power toggle.
- Additionally, you can also turn on the Adaptive Power Notifications toggle if you want to get alerts when the feature is active.

Which iPhones support Adaptive Power Mode?
Adaptive Power Mode is one of the iOS 26 features that Apple is only bringing to select iPhone models. Here is a list of supported iPhones:
- iPhone 15 Pro
- iPhone 15 Pro Max
- iPhone 16
- iPhone 16 Plus
- iPhone 16 Pro
- iPhone 16 Pro Max
- iPhone 16e
As you can tell by this list, only the most recent iPhone models will get the new battery feature. This can be a bummer for older iPhone users, but those who have the supported devices should definitely turn it on to enjoy improved battery life with iOS 26. .