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How To Downgrade iOS: A Comprehensive Guide

So, you’re not vibing with the latest iOS update? Maybe battery life is tanking, or your favorite app is acting glitchy. Whatever the reason, you want to go back – to downgrade your iOS to a version you know and trust. It’s a journey that requires a bit of technical finesse, but don’t worry, this guide will hold your hand (metaphorically, of course) every step of the way.

Downgrading iOS isn’t as simple as tapping a button. Apple doesn’t officially support it for the average user. Therefore, it involves using specific tools, understanding Apple’s signing window, and being prepared for potential data loss. The primary method involves using a computer (Mac or Windows), accessing iTunes (or Finder on macOS Catalina and later), obtaining the correct IPSW file (the iOS installation file), and entering DFU mode on your device. Let’s break it down.

Preparing for the Downgrade

Back Up Your Device

Before you even think about downgrading, BACK UP YOUR DATA! This is non-negotiable. If something goes wrong during the process, a backup is your lifeline. You can use iCloud or iTunes (Finder) to create a backup.

iCloud: Go to Settings > [Your Name] > iCloud > iCloud Backup and tap Back Up Now. Ensure you have enough iCloud storage.
iTunes/Finder: Connect your device to your computer. In iTunes, select your device, then click “Back Up Now”. In Finder (macOS Catalina and later), select your device in the sidebar, then click “Back Up Now.” Choose to encrypt your backup for added security.

Download the Correct IPSW File

An IPSW file is essentially a software package containing all the necessary files to restore your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch to a specific iOS version. You need to download the IPSW file for the iOS version you want to downgrade to, and, critically, the version must still be signed by Apple.

Finding IPSW Files: Several websites host IPSW files. ipsw.me is a popular and reliable choice. Ensure you download the correct IPSW file for your specific device model.
Apple’s Signing Window: This is the crucial part. Apple “signs” iOS versions. If a version isn’t signed, you can’t install it. Apple typically stops signing older versions shortly after releasing a new one. Check ipsw.me to see if the iOS version you want is still being signed (indicated by a green checkmark). If it’s not signed (indicated by a red ‘x’), downgrading to that version is impossible without using techniques beyond the scope of this guide (and often involving jailbreaking).

Turn Off “Find My [Device]”

Before restoring, you must disable Find My [Device]. This feature is a security measure that prevents unauthorized restorations.

Go to Settings > [Your Name] > Find My > Find My [Device] and toggle it off. You’ll need to enter your Apple ID password.

The Downgrade Process: DFU Mode

Now for the slightly nerve-wracking part: entering DFU (Device Firmware Update) mode. This mode allows iTunes/Finder to communicate directly with your device’s hardware, bypassing the operating system. DFU mode is essential for downgrading. The exact steps to enter DFU mode vary depending on your iPhone model:

iPhone 8 and later:
1. Quickly press and release the Volume Up button.
2. Quickly press and release the Volume Down button.
3. Press and hold the Side (power) button until the screen goes black.
4. Immediately after the screen goes black, press and hold both the Side button and the Volume Down button.
5. After 5 seconds, release the Side button, but continue holding the Volume Down button until iTunes/Finder recognizes your device in recovery mode.
6. The device screen should remain black. If you see the Apple logo, you’ve held the Side button for too long and need to try again.
iPhone 7 and 7 Plus:
1. Press and hold both the Side (power) button and the Volume Down button.
2. Continue holding both buttons until the screen goes black.
3. After 5 seconds, release the Side button, but continue holding the Volume Down button until iTunes/Finder recognizes your device in recovery mode.
4. The device screen should remain black.
iPhone 6s and earlier, iPad, and iPod touch:
1. Press and hold both the Home button and the Side (power) button.
2. Continue holding both buttons until the screen goes black.
3. After 5 seconds, release the Side button, but continue holding the Home button until iTunes/Finder recognizes your device in recovery mode.
4. The device screen should remain black.

iTunes/Finder should display a message indicating that it has detected a device in recovery mode. This is good! If your device boots up normally, you need to try the DFU mode steps again. Practice makes perfect (or at least, slightly less frustrating).

Restoring with the IPSW File

Now, with your device in DFU mode, it’s time to use the IPSW file.

iTunes (Windows): Hold down the Shift key while clicking the “Restore iPhone/iPad/iPod” button. A file browser will open. Navigate to the location where you saved the IPSW file and select it.
Finder (macOS Catalina and later): Hold down the Option key while clicking the “Restore iPhone/iPad/iPod” button. A file browser will open. Navigate to the location where you saved the IPSW file and select it.

iTunes/Finder will then begin the restoration process. Do not disconnect your device during this process! It can take a while, so be patient. You will see the Apple logo and a progress bar on your device screen. Once the restoration is complete, your device will restart.

Restoring Your Backup

After the downgrade is complete, you’ll be greeted with the setup assistant. Follow the on-screen instructions. When prompted, choose to restore from your iCloud or iTunes/Finder backup. Select the backup you created before downgrading.

Your device will then restore your apps, data, and settings. Again, be patient; this can take a considerable amount of time, depending on the size of your backup.

Potential Issues and Troubleshooting

Downgrading iOS is not always a smooth process. Here are some common issues and how to address them:

“This device isn’t eligible for the requested build”: This usually means the iOS version you’re trying to downgrade to is no longer being signed by Apple. You can’t downgrade to it.
Stuck in Recovery Mode: If your device gets stuck in recovery mode, try force restarting it. The steps for force restarting are the same as for entering DFU mode. If that doesn’t work, try restoring again using a different USB cable or computer.
Data Loss: This is why backing up is so crucial. If you didn’t back up, you’ll lose all your data.
Activation Errors: If you encounter activation errors, ensure your device is unlocked and not associated with a previous Apple ID.

Is Downgrading iOS Worth It?

While downgrading can sometimes solve issues, it’s essential to weigh the risks and benefits. Consider the following:

Security: Older iOS versions may have security vulnerabilities that have been patched in newer versions.
App Compatibility: Some apps may not be compatible with older iOS versions.
Apple Support: Apple typically only provides support for the latest iOS version.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is it safe to downgrade iOS?

Downgrading iOS involves risks. If done incorrectly, it can potentially brick your device (render it unusable). Always back up your data before attempting a downgrade. Use reputable sources for IPSW files and follow instructions carefully.

2. Can I downgrade to any iOS version I want?

No. You can only downgrade to iOS versions that are currently being signed by Apple. Check ipsw.me to see which versions are signed.

3. What is an IPSW file?

An IPSW file is a file extension used by Apple for firmware updates and restores for iOS, iPadOS, tvOS, and watchOS devices. It contains all the files needed to install an operating system on your Apple device.

4. How do I check if an iOS version is being signed by Apple?

The website ipsw.me displays the signing status of iOS versions. Look for a green checkmark next to the version you want to downgrade to. A red ‘x’ indicates that the version is not being signed.

5. What is DFU mode?

DFU (Device Firmware Update) mode is a low-level state that allows iTunes/Finder to communicate directly with your device’s hardware, bypassing the operating system. It’s essential for downgrading or restoring your device when it’s not functioning correctly.

6. What happens if I don’t back up my data before downgrading?

If you don’t back up your data and something goes wrong during the downgrade process, you will lose all your data, including photos, videos, contacts, and app data.

7. How long does it take to downgrade iOS?

The entire process, including downloading the IPSW file, entering DFU mode, restoring, and restoring your backup, can take anywhere from 30 minutes to a couple of hours, depending on your internet speed and the size of your backup.

8. My device is stuck in recovery mode. What do I do?

Try force restarting your device. If that doesn’t work, try restoring again using a different USB cable or computer. If the issue persists, consider contacting Apple Support.

9. I’m getting an error message saying “This device isn’t eligible for the requested build.” What does that mean?

This error message typically means that the iOS version you’re trying to downgrade to is no longer being signed by Apple. You cannot downgrade to that version.

10. Will downgrading iOS void my warranty?

Downgrading iOS itself shouldn’t void your warranty, but if something goes wrong during the process and you damage your device, Apple may not cover the repair under warranty.

11. Can I downgrade iOS without a computer?

No, you cannot downgrade iOS without a computer. The process requires using iTunes (or Finder on macOS Catalina and later) to restore your device using an IPSW file.

12. Are there any alternatives to downgrading iOS?

Before downgrading, consider troubleshooting the issues you’re experiencing with the current iOS version. Check for app updates, restart your device, reset settings, or contact Apple Support for assistance. Sometimes, a simple fix can resolve the problem without the need to downgrade.