iOS Downgrade Guides, Methods, and Tips [latest]

iOS Downgrade Methods

✅ Method 1: Downgrade Using iTunes or Finder (Free & Official)

This method is the most straightforward and does not require jailbreak. It works on both Mac and Windows computers.

Step-by-step:

1. Download the IPSW firmware file for the iOS version you want (e.g., iOS 17.5) from ipsw.me. Make sure it’s still signed by Apple.
   
2. Connect your iPhone to your computer using a Lightning cable.
   
3. Open iTunes (on Windows) or Finder (on macOS Catalina and later).
   
4. Put your iPhone in Recovery Mode:
   
   • For iPhone 8 or newer: Quickly press Volume Up → Volume Down → then press and hold the Side button until you see the recovery screen.
     
5. When iTunes or Finder detects your iPhone in recovery mode, you’ll see a prompt.
   
6. Hold the Shift key (Windows) or Option key (Mac) and click on Restore iPhone.
   
7. Select the IPSW file you downloaded.
   
8. Click Open, then click Restore.
   
9. Wait for the process to finish. Your iPhone will reboot into the older iOS version.
   

✅ Method 2: iOS Downgrade Tool for Windows Free (3uTools)

3uTools is a free tool that simplifies the process on Windows computers.

Step-by-step:

1. Download and install 3uTools on your PC.
   
2. Launch the software and connect your iPhone.
   
3. Click on “Smart Flash” or “Flash & JB” from the menu.
   
4. Click “Import Firmware” and select your downloaded IPSW file.
   
5. Choose “Retain User Data” if you want to keep your files.
   
6. Click “Flash” to begin the downgrade.
   
7. Wait for the process to finish. The device will automatically restart into the downgraded iOS version.
   

✅ Method 3: iOS Downgrade Tool for Mac (ReiBoot, iMazing)

If you’re using macOS, apps like ReiBoot and iMazing are easy options.

Step-by-step using ReiBoot:

1. Download and install ReiBoot.
   
2. Connect your iPhone and launch ReiBoot.
   
3. Click “Start” and choose “Standard Repair”.
   
4. Click Download to get the appropriate firmware or import your IPSW.
   
5. Click Start Standard Repair. Wait until the downgrade process completes.
   
6. Your iPhone will reboot with the previous version installed.
   

Step-by-step using iMazing:

1. Install and launch iMazing.
   
2. Connect your iPhone.
   
3. Click Reinstall iOS under the device options.
   
4. Select your IPSW file.
   
5. Proceed and let iMazing complete the downgrade.
   

⚠️ Method 4: iOS Downgrade with Jailbreak (Using SHSH2 Blobs)

Use this method only if your target iOS version is no longer signed by Apple. It’s advanced and requires saved SHSH2 blobs.

Step-by-step:

1. You must have previously saved SHSH2 blobs for the target version (e.g., iOS 17.0).
   
2. Use a tool like futurerestore on Mac/Windows/Linux.
   
3. Place your iPhone in DFU mode.

4. Run futurerestore using command-line input:

4. Follow the terminal prompts to complete the downgrade.
   

⚠️ This method is only for experienced users.

Requirements Before You Downgrade

Before jumping in, make sure:

• Your target iOS version is still signed (check here)
  
• Your device is compatible
  
• You’ve downloaded the correct IPSW file
  
• You’ve backed up your iPhone
  

How to Back Up Your iPhone Safely

Method 1: iCloud Backup

• Go to Settings → Apple ID → iCloud → iCloud Backup → Back Up Now
  

Method 2: iTunes/Finder Backup

• Connect to PC or Mac
  
• Open iTunes or Finder
  
• Click Back Up Now
  
• Select Encrypt Backup for passwords and health data
  

Method 3: Third-Party Tools

• Tools like iMazing let you backup and restore individual apps and settings

Tip: Always check that your backup is complete and restorable before downgrading.

Step-by-Step Downgrade Scenarios

🔽 Downgrade iOS 18 to 17

Use iTunes/Finder or 3uTools methods above with iOS 17 IPSW while it is still signed.

🔽 Downgrade iOS 18.2 to 17

As iOS 18.2 is no longer signed, you need saved SHSH2 blobs and futurerestore.

🔽 Downgrade iOS 18.1 to 18

Still possible if iOS 18 is signed. Use the iTunes or 3uTools method with the iOS 18 IPSW.

🔽 iOS Downgrade from Beta

1. Delete the beta profile from Settings → General → VPN & Device Management.
   

Use iTunes or Finder to restore the latest public IPSW file.

iOS Downgrade Signing Status (Live Table)

iOS Version	Signed?	Downgrade Tool	Jailbreak Needed?	IPSW Link
iOS 18.2	❌ No	SHSH2 only	Yes (Advanced)	Link
iOS 18.1	✅ Yes	iTunes, 3uTools	No	Link
iOS 17.5	✅ Yes	All Tools	No	Link

Download Free iOS Downgrade Tools

For Windows:

• ✅ 3uTools (Free, most recommended)
  
• EaseUS MobiXpert (Free trial)
  

For Mac:

• ✅ ReiBoot
  
• iMazing (Free limited use)
  

These tools simplify the downgrade process without jailbreak or command lines.

Common Issues + Fixes

• Error 4013 / 3194 in iTunes → Check USB cable or update iTunes
  
• Stuck in Recovery Mode → Use Reiboot to exit recovery mode
  
• Activation Issues → Ensure Apple ID/iCloud is properly signed in
  
• Tool crashes → Reinstall and try another IPSW version
  

FAQs About iOS Downgrade

Can I downgrade iOS without a computer?

No, downgrade requires either iTunes, Finder, or third-party tools.

Is jailbreak needed for iOS downgrade?

Only for unsigned versions using SHSH2 blobs.

How to downgrade iOS 17 from iOS 18?

Use iTunes or 3uTools with a signed IPSW for iOS 17.

Is iOS downgrade free?

Yes, most tools and methods are completely free.

Can I downgrade iOS beta to stable?

Yes. Remove the beta profile and use iTunes to restore a public version.