How To Fix : iPhone Lagging Issues After the iOS 18 Update

Posted: March 12, 2025 | Updated: March 19, 2025

Fix iPhone lag after the iOS 18 update with easy troubleshooting tips, from freeing up storage to resetting settings for better performance.

What cause this problem iOS 18

Level Normal Based on Software

Solutions

Updating to iOS 18 should improve your iPhone’s performance, but some users may experience lagging issues after the update. If your iPhone is running slower than usual, don’t worry—there are several steps you can take to fix it. Here’s a guide to troubleshooting and improving your device’s speed.

Solution 1. Restart Your iPhone
A simple restart can resolve temporary glitches and clear out background processes that may be causing the lag.

Press and hold the power button (or the volume and side button on newer models) until you see the power-off slider.
Slide to turn off your device, then wait a few seconds before turning it back on.

Solution 2. Check for a New Software Update
Apple frequently releases minor updates to fix performance bugs.

Go to Settings > General > Software Update.
If an update is available, install it and check if the lag persists.

Solution 3. Free Up Storage Space
Lack of storage can slow down your iPhone. To check and clear storage:

Go to Settings > General > iPhone Storage.
Delete unused apps, old photos, or large files that are taking up space.

Solution 4. Disable Background App Refresh
Background App Refresh can use system resources and slow down your phone.

Go to Settings > General > Background App Refresh.
Turn it off completely or limit it to specific apps.

Solution 5. Reduce Motion and Transparency Effects
Animations and effects may contribute to lag, especially on older devices.

Go to Settings > Accessibility > Motion and enable Reduce Motion.
Go to Settings > Accessibility > Display & Text Size and enable Reduce Transparency.

Solution 6. Clear Safari Cache
Browsing history and cache data can slow down your iPhone over time.

Go to Settings > Safari and tap Clear History and Website Data.

Solution 7. Reset All Settings
If lag persists, resetting all settings can help without deleting personal data.

Go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Reset > Reset All Settings.

Solution 8. Factory Reset
If none of the above methods work, consider a factory reset.

Back up your data via iCloud or iTunes.
Go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Erase All Content and Settings.
Set up your iPhone as new or restore from backup.

Lagging issues after an iOS update can be frustrating, but following these steps should help restore your iPhone’s performance. If the problem persists, contact Apple Support for further assistance.