iPad Mini 5: Keyboard, Messages, Books issues post iOS 26.2

Keyboard and Messenger issues following iOS 26.2 update

I delayed updating my iPad Mini 5 to iOS 26 for as long as possible due to the problems and interface changes I experienced on my iPhone 14 but had to give in because I could not get rid of the update notification on the Settings Button so annoying. However, after updating to iOS 26.2, several issues became apparent immediately.

First, the text displayed on the keyboard itself (not the typed text) has become noticeably smaller. This is especially apparent in the Messenger app and in Safari, and it makes the keyboard more difficult to read.

Second, in the Messenger app, the most recently sent message is now partially cut off. I have to manually scroll or adjust the screen in order to read the full message.

Additionally, the Books app layout has changed significantly. I now have to search to find settings that were previously easy to access. There is also a new interface element in the bottom-right corner, shown as a small curved line, which I believe is intended to allow the page to be resized. Unfortunately, I am unable to interact with this control reliably using my fingers.

Because these are the applications I use most frequently, these issues have a significant impact on my daily use of the device. This leads me to my question:

When will Apple address these issues in a future iOS 26 update, or alternatively, allow users the option to downgrade back to iOS 18 if they prefer not to continue using the current version?

Thank you for your time and assistance.