Learn how to downgrade iOS to a previous version with this guide, which covers different methods to go back to previous iOS version with or without iTunes.
How to downgrade iOS to previous version
I have an iPhone 15 and I updated the system to the latest iOS version some time ago. For a work project, there are several software compatibility issues that are not compatible with the latest iOS and require an iOS version 16 or lower. Does anyone here know how to fix this?
- Question from Reddit
Generally speaking, the latest iOS system has more personalized features than previous iOS versions. For example, iOS 18 introduces an enhanced version of Siri artificial intelligence, making Siri more intelligent and powerful.
However, not everyone will be satisfied with the latest iOS. The latest iOS version also brings unpredictable bugs and issues, such as iPhone software update failure or iOS 18 not working properly on some iPhone models.
So can you downgrade iOS? Of course you can. In the following article, you can learn how to downgrade to previous iOS with/without iTunes.
Next, we will provide some methods to help you perform how to go back to previous iOS version. You can choose according to your needs.
Also Read: How to Remove iOS 18 Beta from iPhone without Losing Data
Downgrading iOS may cause some data loss. Because different iOS versions support different features. Some new features and data may not be available on older versions of iOS. Therefore, it is recommended that you back up your device or important files before downgrading. This can minimize the possibility of data loss.
FoneTool is a free and safe iOS backup software. It is a good choice if you are not satisfied with the backup speed of iTunes and the limited free backup space of iCloud. It provides selective backup and one-click full backup options, making your iOS backup easier and faster than ever. You can successfully go iOS 17/18 back to 16 without losing data.
Using iTunes has to be one of the most common ways to downgrade iOS. The iTunes application allows you to install an older version of iOS firmware on your phone. The firmware that is installed must be signed by Apple. Unsigned firmware cannot be installed on your iPhone or iPad device.
You can follow the steps below to learn how to downgrade iOS to previous version via iTunes.
Step 1. On your computer, visit IPSW Downloads > Choose your current iPhone model > Choose and download an iOS version you need.
Step 2. After that, connect your iPhone to the PC > Open iTunes > Tap on the iPhone icon.
Step 3. Hold and press the Shift key > Click on Restore iPhone to check the downloaded IPSW file > Tap it and click Open.
Step 4. When you see a pop-up window, tap on Restore to confirm.
For Mac user, you have another choice to learn how to install previous version of iOS.
Step 1. On your Mac, go to https://ipsw.me/ > Select iPhone model you are using now > Select the iOS you need and tap on the download button.
Step 2. Connect the iPhone to the Mac > Launch Finder > Choose your device > Press the Option key on Mac and tap on the Restore iPhone option to find the IPSW file you have downloaded.
Step 3. Choose the file and tap Open > A pop-up window will appear and ask for your confirmation > Tap on Restore to confirm.
Downgrading iOS directly on your phone is a potential method. This method is not officially approved by Apple, may not be universally successful, and may involve certain risks.
Step 1. Open Safari browser and go to the website of IPSW > Choose your iPhone model > download the iOS version.
Step 2. On the iPhone, go to Settings app > General > iPhone Storage to locate the iOS profile in the list > Choose it and click Remove Profile and confirm the action.
Step 3. Then restart your iPhone and open the Files app > Locate the folder where you stored the downloaded iOS IPSW file.
Step 4. Tap on the file to install it > And then follow the on-screen instructions to perform it.
That’s all about how to downgrade iOS to previous version. The article not only provides different ways to downgrade iOS, but is also suitable for Windows and Mac users. If you choose to downgrade iOS, please make sure to back up iPhone data beforehand to prevent accidental data loss, such as software incompatibility caused by downgrading.