Experiencing issues with iOS 18? Don’t panic. Follow the step-by-step guide to downgrade to iOS 17.
iOS rollback is inherently more complex than the update process. It is important to make sure that you are well-prepared and informed about any possible risks.
iOS downgrades often entail erasing all device data and reinstalling an older OS. It’s crucial to back up all data beforehand.
Backup iPhone data using Dr.Fone/iTunes/iCloud
During and after the iOS downgrade process, it is not uncommon for your device to become stuck or frozen.
Fix any iOS issues with Dr.Fone without data loss.
The Apple signing window, typically 2 weeks, lets you install specific iOS versions. After that, iOS downgrading is impossible.
Downgrade iOS before Apple stops signing the older firmware.
Now that you know the prerequisites for downgrading from iOS 18, you can easily meet the requirements. If you are ready to downgrade to an older iOS version that Apple still signs, here are three methods to revert from iOS 18 to 17.
After every release of a new iOS version, Apple only allows you to downgrade to an older iOS update for a limited amount of time, likely a week or two.
One-Click Solution to Downgrade iOS 18 (Fast & Easy to Use)
If you are a beginner and do not have much technical knowledge about iOS downgrading, consider picking a third-party tool. Developed by Wondershare, Dr.Fone - System Repair (iOS) provides a one-click solution to downgrade iOS 18 to a previous stable version.
1. Connect the iOS device to your computer, launch Dr.Fone and select the "iPhone" module.
2. Click on "iOS Upgrade/Downgrade" and then on "Downgrade iOS".
3. Choose the previous iOS version you want to downgrade and start to download the firmware package.
4. Wait for a moment, and the iOS 18 will be uninstalled successfully.
Use iTunes to Go Back to the Old iOS
Since you can upgrade your iOS from the iTunes app on your computer, you can also perform an iOS 18 downgrade with iTunes. But it has its cons. For instance, you might lose the existing data on your phone as it would restore your device to its factory settings. The process is also a bit technical, and you might end up damaging your device in the process.
1. From your iOS device go to "Settings" > "[Your name]" > "Find my" > "Find My [device] " > Disable "Find My [device] ".
2. Get an iOS version you want from IPSW.me and download the IPSW file to your computer.
3. Then connect your iOS device to the computer and click "Trust" in the "Trust This Computer?".
4. Select your iOS device in iTunes. Then, go to its "Summary" tab and hold the Shift key in Windows or the Alt/Option key in Mac as you click the "Restore" Button.
5. Select the IPSW file you downloaded and click "Open".
6. Click Restore to confirm. Wait for a while and let iTunes complete the iOS 18 downgrade.
Downgrade From iOS 18 Beta to iOS 17
If you've previously installed the iOS 18 Beta or iPadOS 18 Beta through Apple's Developer Program or Software Beta Program, you'll need to follow the specific steps below to safely revert to a public iOS version.
1. Connect your iPhone/iPad to the computer using a Lightning cable.
2. Launch iTunes on your PC, or Finder on your Mac.
3. Put your iPhone/iPad in Recovery Mode. The methods vary on different devices.
4. Click Restore on the popup window to restore your device and install the latest public iOS/iPadOS version.
5. Wait until the process is complete. This will wipe all data on your device.
know, the entire process of downgrading an iOS version is time-sensitive. If you have passed the downgrade validity period but still want to downgrade to a version no longer signed by Apple, then you need to use a third-party tool. By taking the assistance of tools like TinyUmbrella, FutureRestore and TaigOne Downgrader, you can install any supported iOS version on the device. They mimic Apple's signature, letting us install personalized firmware (iOS version) on iDevices.