iOS 26 Charging Time Estimates Are Revolutionary for iPhone Users

iOS 26 has finally removed the guesswork out of charging by displaying a live countdown of how much time is still remaining until your iPhone reaches 80 percent and then 100 percent. Plug your device in, open the Battery section from your Settings, and watch the estimated time tick down in real time. This clarity means there will be no more second-guessing as to whether a quick charge of your iPhone will get you through your next errand of the day.

Dual-Phase Transparency

This new feature breaks charging into two very distinct phases for easy understanding: rapid charging up to 80 percent and a slower taper from 80 to full. By showing each timer separately, you get to decide if you need that final stretch of power or if hitting the “80 percent sweet spot” is enough to get you through the rest of your day. This will finally transform charging from a background process into something you can plan around your day.

Lock Screen Dashboard

Even without unlocking your iPhone, the Lock Screen gives you a clear charging status of your battery's power. When your battery is below 80 percent and you’re plugged in, you’ll see exactly how many minutes remain until that threshold is reached. If you’re using a lower-power adapter, the estimate will adjust automatically to adapter's charging speed, so you will immediately be in the know if you need a faster charger to reach your needs. The iPhone is now more informative than ever.

MagSafe Integration

MagSafe users see these same timers right in the magnetic charging interface. Snap on a MagSafe puck and you’ll instantly get both 80 percent and 100 percent projections. The secure alignment of MagSafe ensures you’re getting the maximum possible speed, and now you also know exactly how long each session will take.

Lightning-cable devotees aren’t left out. Use a high-wattage power brick with your USB-C-to-Lightning cable, and the Battery settings will show the reduced time compared to lower-power adapters. This makes it simple to compare how much faster each method is and pick the right setup for a quick morning top-up or a power boost before hopping on a call.

Under the hood, this feature leans into the two-stage chemistry of lithium-ion cells—fast current until around 80 percent, then a trickle to protect longevity. By surfacing both timers, Apple nudges you towards healthier charging habits without any extra effort. It’s a subtle but powerful upgrade that turns charging into a transparent, user-friendly experience.