How to Downgrade iOS Version on iPhone (Working Methods)

 What Does Downgrading iOS Mean?

Downgrading iOS means installing an older version of iOS on your iPhone.

This is usually done to:

• Fix bugs or performance issues
• Return to a more stable iOS version
• Use apps not compatible with newer versions

 Important: Apple Restrictions

Before you start, you must understand:

👉 Apple only allows installation of iOS versions that are currently signed.

• If a version is unsigned, downgrade is NOT possible
• Signing status changes frequently

👉 Always check if the version you want is still signed.

🔗 Download IPSW Files

Download the correct firmware for your device:

• iPhone 17 Series – https://www.getipsw.org/device/iPhone18,5
• iPhone 16 Series – https://www.getipsw.org/device/iPhone17,1
• iPhone 15 Series – https://www.getipsw.org/device/iPhone15,4
• iPhone 14 Series – https://www.getipsw.org/device/iPhone14,2
• iPhone 13 Series – https://www.getipsw.org/device/iPhone14,5
• iPhone 12 Series – https://www.getipsw.org/device/iPhone13,2
• iPhone 11 Series – https://www.getipsw.org/device/iPhone12,1
• iPhone XS / XR – https://www.getipsw.org/device/iPhone11,8
• iPhone SE – https://www.getipsw.org/device/iPhone12,8

 Method 1: Downgrade Using IPSW (Official Way)

This is the safest and most reliable method.

On Windows (iTunes)

1. Download the IPSW file for the iOS version you want
2. Install the latest version of iTunes
3. Connect your iPhone to your PC
4. Open iTunes and select your device
5. Hold Shift and click Restore iPhone
6. Select the IPSW file
7. Confirm and wait for installation

On Mac (Finder)

1. Connect your iPhone to your Mac
2. Open Finder
3. Select your device
4. Hold Option (⌥) and click Restore iPhone
5. Choose the IPSW file
6. Wait for the process to complete

 Important Notes

• Downgrading will erase your data
• Backup your device before starting
• Only signed versions can be installed
• Make sure to use the correct IPSW file

Method 2: Using Recovery Mode

If your device is not working properly:

1. Put your iPhone into Recovery Mode
2. Connect to iTunes or Finder
3. Restore using IPSW

👉 This method is useful for fixing issues during downgrade.

Method That Does NOT Work

Downgrading unsigned iOS versions

👉 This is NOT possible without advanced tools (SHSH blobs, jailbreak, etc.)

For most users:
➡️ Only signed versions are available

🔍 How to Check if iOS is Signed

👉 On GetIPSW:

• Visit your device page
• Check available versions
• Look for signing status

FAQ

Can I downgrade iOS without a computer?

No, a computer is required.

Will I lose my data?

Yes, downgrading erases your device.

Is downgrading safe?

Yes, if you use official Apple firmware and follow the steps correctly.

Final Thoughts

Downgrading iOS can be useful when facing bugs or performance issues, but it comes with limitations due to Apple’s signing system.

Always check signing status, use official IPSW files, and follow the correct steps to avoid errors.

Explore more guides on GetIPSW to restore, downgrade, and fix your iPhone easily.