Latest iOS 26.3 update and lagged iPad

Hello, I have a question about the latest iOS 26.3. I updated my device yesterday on my iPad PRO (M2), and it has been super laggy ever since. Opening different apps, closing windows and working in between open apps.


I only use around 10GB out of 256G, so that is not the issue. I tried restarting the device a couple of times, but nothing. I did not have any similar issue with the updates before, this is new.


Is there anything I could do besides doing the factory reset? I also found out, it might resolve on its own in a few days, is that true?


Thank you for any help and have a nice day!

iPad Pro, iPadOS 26

Posted on Feb 27, 2026 4:30 AM

Reply
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Posted on Feb 27, 2026 6:20 AM

Following update, your iPad will be performing background housekeeping tasks (such as reindexing the filesystem) and potentially downloading and installing additional software assets - during which time your iPad may experience temporary reduction in performance. Nominal performance should return within a few days.


If poor performance continues for more than a few days, or your iPad is not operating as expected, try a forced-restart - as this will often clear an isolated or post-update software issue:


Force restart iPad (models with Face ID or with Touch ID in the top button)

If your iPad doesn’t have the Home button, do the following:

  1. Press and quickly release the volume button nearest to the top button.
  2. Press and quickly release the volume button farthest from the top button.
  3. Press and hold the top button.
  4. When the Apple logo appears, release the top button.





If the problem persists after performing the restart, it may be necessary to reset your iPad settings. While this reset will not cause any loss of data, as a precaution, it is always wise to ensure that you have a current iCloud or iTunes backup before performing the reset:

How to back up your iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch - Apple Support


When you are happy to proceed, you can perform the reset from iPad settings:

Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPad > Reset > Reset All Settings


If the problem still doesn’t clear, the next step is to reset the iPad to factory settings:

Restore your iPhone, iPad, or iPod to factory settings - Apple Support


Otherwise, you would be best advised to seek assistance directly from Apple Support. You can contact the Support Team using the Support link at top-right or bottom-left of this page. Alternatively you can initiate and manage your support cases using the excellent Apple Support App. If not already installed on your iPad, the App can be downloaded from the App Store:

https://apps.apple.com/app/apple-support/id1130498044


You might also visit the Genius Bar at your local Apple Store or Apple Authorised Service Provider (AASP) - where the technicians will be able to test and assess your iPad - and you can explore your available options:

Genius Bar Reservation and Apple Support Options - Apple

1 reply
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Feb 27, 2026 6:20 AM in response to valentýna36

Following update, your iPad will be performing background housekeeping tasks (such as reindexing the filesystem) and potentially downloading and installing additional software assets - during which time your iPad may experience temporary reduction in performance. Nominal performance should return within a few days.


If poor performance continues for more than a few days, or your iPad is not operating as expected, try a forced-restart - as this will often clear an isolated or post-update software issue:


Force restart iPad (models with Face ID or with Touch ID in the top button)

If your iPad doesn’t have the Home button, do the following:

  1. Press and quickly release the volume button nearest to the top button.
  2. Press and quickly release the volume button farthest from the top button.
  3. Press and hold the top button.
  4. When the Apple logo appears, release the top button.





If the problem persists after performing the restart, it may be necessary to reset your iPad settings. While this reset will not cause any loss of data, as a precaution, it is always wise to ensure that you have a current iCloud or iTunes backup before performing the reset:

How to back up your iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch - Apple Support


When you are happy to proceed, you can perform the reset from iPad settings:

Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPad > Reset > Reset All Settings


If the problem still doesn’t clear, the next step is to reset the iPad to factory settings:

Restore your iPhone, iPad, or iPod to factory settings - Apple Support


Otherwise, you would be best advised to seek assistance directly from Apple Support. You can contact the Support Team using the Support link at top-right or bottom-left of this page. Alternatively you can initiate and manage your support cases using the excellent Apple Support App. If not already installed on your iPad, the App can be downloaded from the App Store:

https://apps.apple.com/app/apple-support/id1130498044


You might also visit the Genius Bar at your local Apple Store or Apple Authorised Service Provider (AASP) - where the technicians will be able to test and assess your iPad - and you can explore your available options:

Genius Bar Reservation and Apple Support Options - Apple

Latest iOS 26.3 update and lagged iPad

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