As Apple releases new iOS versions, some users will find themselves wanting to go back to an older one. Whether you’re having issues with a beta or just prefer an older iOS, this will walk you through the process.
What is an iOS Downgrade?
Why Downgrade iOS?
You might want to downgrade for:
- You installed an iOS beta that’s too buggy for daily use
- The latest iOS is causing issues on your device
- You prefer the features or interface of an older iOS
- An app you use is not compatible with the new iOS
Downgrade Limitations
You can only downgrade to iOS versions that Apple is still signing. Apple stops signing older versions a few weeks after a new iOS version is released. So you can’t downgrade to any older iOS you want.
Before You Downgrade
Before you start the downgrade process you need to:
1. Back Up Your Data
Downgrading iOS will erase everything on your device. To avoid losing important data, back up your device using iCloud or iTunes (Finder on macOS Catalina and later).
2. Check Device Compatibility
Make sure your iPhone model is compatible with the iOS version you want to downgrade to. Not all older iOS versions support the latest iPhones.
3. Get the IPSW File
You’ll need to download the IPSW file for the iOS version you want to downgrade to. These can be found on various websites that host iOS firmware files.
It’s also important to manage the iOS beta profile properly to ensure a smooth downgrade and avoid potential data loss or stability issues.
4. Install or Update iTunes
If you’re using a Windows computer or a Mac running macOS Mojave or earlier, make sure you have the latest version of iTunes installed. For macOS Catalina and later, you’ll use Finder.
How to Downgrade iOS
Step 1: Turn Off Find My iPhone
- Open Settings on your iOS device
- Tap your Apple ID at the top
- Tap “Find My”
- Toggle off “Find My iPhone”
- Enter your Apple ID password
Step 2: Connect to Computer
Use a USB cable to connect your iPhone or iPad to your Mac or Windows computer.
Step 3: Recovery Mode
- iPhone 8 or later: Press and release Volume Up, press and release Volume Down, then press and hold Side button until you see the recovery mode screen.
- iPhone 7 or 7 Plus: Press and hold Side and Volume Down buttons until you see the recovery mode screen.
- iPhone 6s or earlier, iPad with Home button: Press and hold Home and Top (or Side) buttons until you see the recovery mode screen.
Step 4: Restore
On your computer:
- Open iTunes (or Finder on macOS Catalina and later)
- When your device is in recovery mode, you’ll see a prompt to Restore or Update
- Hold the Option key (Mac) or Shift key (Windows) and click Restore
- Select the IPSW file you downloaded earlier
- Click Open
iTunes (or Finder) will now verify the software and install it on your device. This will take a few minutes.
Step 5: Set Up
When the restore is complete, your device will restart. You can set it up as new or restore from a backup.
After Downgrade
Once you’ve downgraded your iOS version, do:
1. Restore Your Backup
If you backed up before downgrading, you can now restore. Be aware that if you’re restoring an iCloud backup, it may contain data from the newer iOS version which could cause issues.
2. Remove iOS Beta Profile
If you were running a beta version of iOS, remove the beta profile:
- Go to Settings > General > Profiles & Device Management
- Tap on the iOS Beta Software Profile
- Tap Remove Profile
To access beta versions of iOS, you need to enroll in the Apple Developer Program, which allows developers to test new features and provide feedback.
3. Disable Auto Update
To prevent your device from auto updating to the latest iOS version:
- Go to Settings > General > Software Update
- Tap Automatic Updates
- Toggle off Download iOS Updates and Install iOS Updates
Problems and Solutions
Downgrading iOS is usually easy but you may encounter some issues:
Error 3194 or “This device isn’t eligible for the requested build”
This means Apple is no longer signing the previous version of iOS you’re trying to downgrade to. Sorry, you can’t downgrade in this case.
Stuck on Apple Logo
If your device gets stuck on the Apple logo during the restore process, try putting it into recovery mode again and try again.
Losing Data
Remember, downgrading iOS will erase all data on your device. Always backup before you start.
Conclusion
Downgrading iOS can be a good solution if you’re having issues with a new version or prefer an older one. But weigh the pros and cons.
Remember, staying on an older iOS version means you’ll miss out on the latest features and security updates. If you’re downgrading from an iOS beta, consider waiting for the stable version instead as it may fix the issues you’re having.
Always follow the steps carefully and have a recent backup of your data. If you’re unsure about any part of the process, contact Apple Support or visit an Apple Store. Apple only signs the previous iOS version for a short time so act fast.
