How to Downgrade iOS: A Comprehensive Guide

Downgrading iOS, reverting your iPhone or iPad to an older version of the operating system, can be tempting for various reasons. Perhaps you’re experiencing performance issues, battery drain, or compatibility problems with the latest update. Maybe you simply prefer the features and interface of a previous iOS version. While Apple generally discourages downgrading and it’s not always possible, there are specific scenarios and methods that allow you to revert to an older iOS version. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process, highlighting the risks, prerequisites, and detailed steps involved.

Why Downgrade iOS? Common Reasons

Before diving into the how-to, let’s understand why someone might want to downgrade their iOS device:

Performance Issues: Newer iOS versions can sometimes bog down older devices, leading to sluggish performance, app crashes, and general instability. Downgrading to a version the device originally shipped with or performed well on can improve speed and responsiveness.
Battery Drain: Updates can introduce bugs that drain the battery faster than usual. A downgrade might restore battery life to its previous levels.
Software Bugs: New iOS versions often contain bugs that can disrupt daily usage. Downgrading to a more stable, older version can provide a smoother experience.
App Compatibility: Some users might rely on older apps that are no longer compatible with the latest iOS. Downgrading allows them to continue using these apps.
Jailbreaking: Downgrading is sometimes a necessary step for jailbreaking a device, which allows users to access advanced customization options and install unofficial apps. However, it’s crucial to note that jailbreaking voids your warranty and can pose security risks.
Personal Preference: Some users simply prefer the look and feel of an older iOS version or miss certain features that have been removed in newer updates.

Important Considerations and Risks

Downgrading iOS is not without its challenges and potential risks. Understanding these before you proceed is essential:

Apple’s Signing Window: Apple typically only signs the latest iOS version. This means that once a new version is released, Apple stops signing older versions, making it impossible to downgrade officially. The methods described below often rely on specific loopholes or exploits that may not always be available.
Data Loss: Downgrading involves erasing your device, so you must have a recent backup. Without a backup, you will lose all your photos, videos, contacts, messages, and other data.
Potential for Bricking: If something goes wrong during the downgrade process, your device could become bricked, rendering it unusable. This is a rare occurrence but a possibility.
Security Vulnerabilities: Older iOS versions may contain security vulnerabilities that have been patched in newer versions. Downgrading exposes you to these vulnerabilities, making your device more susceptible to malware and hacking.
No Guarantee of Success: The methods described below are not always guaranteed to work, and their effectiveness can vary depending on your device model, iOS version, and other factors.
App Compatibility (Again): While *some* users might downgrade for older app compatibility, realize that many *new* apps will require the latest version of iOS. You may be trading one problem for another.

Prerequisites Before You Begin

Before attempting to downgrade your iOS device, ensure you have the following:

A Compatible Device: Not all devices can be downgraded to all iOS versions. Check online resources and forums to see if downgrading is possible for your specific device model and target iOS version.
A Computer: You’ll need a computer (Windows or macOS) to perform the downgrade.
iTunes (or Finder in macOS Catalina and later): Make sure you have the latest version of iTunes installed on your computer (if using Windows or macOS Mojave or earlier). On macOS Catalina and later, you’ll use Finder.
The Correct IPSW File: An IPSW file is a firmware file for iOS devices. You’ll need to download the IPSW file for the iOS version you want to downgrade to and that is specifically for your device model. Download it only from reputable sources to avoid malware. ipsw.me is a reliable website to download IPSW files.
A Reliable USB Cable: Use a genuine Apple USB cable or a high-quality third-party cable to connect your device to your computer.
A Full Backup: This is the most crucial step. Back up your iPhone or iPad using iCloud or iTunes (Finder). If you use iTunes (Finder), choose to encrypt the backup for maximum data protection. Go to Settings > [Your Name] > iCloud > iCloud Backup and tap ‘Back Up Now’ to create an iCloud backup. For iTunes/Finder backup, connect your device to your computer, open iTunes/Finder, select your device, and click ‘Back Up Now’.
Disable Find My iPhone/iPad: Go to Settings > [Your Name] > Find My and toggle off ‘Find My iPhone/iPad’. You’ll need to enter your Apple ID password to disable it. This is a critical step, as it can prevent the downgrade process from completing successfully.
Sufficient Time: The downgrade process can take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour or more, depending on your internet speed and computer’s performance. Make sure you have enough time and won’t be interrupted.

Methods for Downgrading iOS

Here are the primary methods for downgrading iOS. The feasibility of each method depends heavily on whether Apple is still signing the target iOS version and the specific tools available.

Method 1: Using iTunes/Finder (If the IPSW is Signed)

This is the simplest and most straightforward method, but it only works if Apple is still signing the iOS version you want to downgrade to. This is rare, as Apple typically stops signing older versions shortly after releasing a new one.

Download the Correct IPSW File: Download the IPSW file for the iOS version you want to downgrade to and that is specifically for your device model from ipsw.me.
Connect Your Device to Your Computer: Connect your iPhone or iPad to your computer using a USB cable.
Open iTunes (or Finder): Launch iTunes (if using Windows or macOS Mojave or earlier) or open Finder (if using macOS Catalina or later).
Enter Recovery Mode: Put your device into Recovery Mode. The steps for doing this vary depending on your device model:
- iPhone 8 or later, iPhone SE (2nd generation): Press and quickly release the Volume Up button, press and quickly release the Volume Down button, then press and hold the Side button until you see the Recovery Mode screen.
- iPhone 7, iPhone 7 Plus: Press and hold both the Side (or Top) button and the Volume Down button at the same time. Keep holding them until you see the Recovery Mode screen.
- iPhone 6s or earlier, iPhone SE (1st generation): Press and hold both the Home button and the Side (or Top) button at the same time. Keep holding them until you see the Recovery Mode screen.
Restore iPhone/iPad:
- iTunes (Windows): Hold down the Shift key on your keyboard and click the ‘Restore iPhone/iPad…’ button in iTunes.
- iTunes (macOS Mojave or earlier): Hold down the Option (Alt) key on your keyboard and click the ‘Restore iPhone/iPad…’ button in iTunes.
- Finder (macOS Catalina or later): Hold down the Option (Alt) key on your keyboard and click the ‘Restore iPhone/iPad…’ button in Finder.
Select the IPSW File: In the file selection dialog box, navigate to the location where you saved the IPSW file and select it.
Confirm the Restore: iTunes/Finder will ask you to confirm that you want to restore your device to the selected iOS version. Click ‘Restore’.
Wait for the Process to Complete: iTunes/Finder will now erase your device and install the older iOS version. This process can take some time, so be patient and do not disconnect your device.
Restore from Backup: Once the downgrade is complete, your device will restart and display the setup screen. Follow the on-screen instructions to set up your device and restore your data from the backup you created earlier.

Method 2: Using FutureRestore (For Advanced Users)

FutureRestore is a command-line tool that allows you to downgrade to unsigned iOS versions, but it requires having saved SHSH blobs for the target iOS version. SHSH blobs are digital signatures that Apple uses to verify iOS firmware. Saving SHSH blobs before upgrading is crucial if you anticipate wanting to downgrade later. This method is more complex and requires a deeper understanding of iOS and command-line interfaces.

Warning: This method is significantly more complex and carries a higher risk of bricking your device if not performed correctly. Only proceed if you are comfortable with using command-line tools and understand the risks involved.

Save SHSH Blobs: In order to use FutureRestore, you MUST have saved SHSH blobs for the iOS version you wish to downgrade to BEFORE you upgraded to a newer version. SHSH blobs are unique to your device and iOS version and are required to bypass Apple’s signing restrictions. You can use tools like TSSSaver (https://tsssaver.1conan.com/) to save your SHSH blobs. You’ll need your device’s ECID (Exclusive Chip ID) to do this. Your ECID can be found by connecting your device to iTunes/Finder.
Download Required Files:
- FutureRestore: Download the latest version of FutureRestore for your operating system from GitHub. Search for “FutureRestore GitHub” to find the official repository.
- IPSW File: Download the IPSW file for the iOS version you want to downgrade to from ipsw.me.
- Baseband and Sep Firmware: You will also need the Baseband and Sep Firmware from the *latest signed* iOS version for your device. You can find these within the latest IPSW from IPSW.me. Extract them using 7-Zip (Windows) or The Unarchiver (macOS).
- Apticket.der: This file is extracted from the SHSH blob itself. Use online resources to learn how to extract it, it depends upon the SHSH blob version.
Prepare Your Device:
- Disable Find My iPhone/iPad: Go to Settings > [Your Name] > Find My and toggle off ‘Find My iPhone/iPad’.
- Enter Recovery Mode: Put your device into Recovery Mode (see instructions in Method 1).
Open Command Prompt/Terminal: Open a command prompt (Windows) or Terminal (macOS) and navigate to the directory where you extracted FutureRestore.
Execute the FutureRestore Command: This is the most crucial step. The exact command syntax depends on your version of FutureRestore and the location of your files. Here’s a general example (replace the paths with your actual file paths):
```
./futurerestore -t your_shsh_blob.shsh2 --latest-sep --latest-baseband  your_ios_version.ipsw
```
or, if you are using specific SEP and Baseband:
```
./futurerestore -t your_shsh_blob.shsh2 -s your_sep.ipsw -b your_baseband.ipsw your_ios_version.ipsw
```
- ./futurerestore: This is the FutureRestore executable.
- -t your_shsh_blob.shsh2: Specifies the path to your SHSH blob file.
- -s your_sep.ipsw: Specifies the path to the SEP firmware.
- -b your_baseband.ipsw: Specifies the path to the Baseband firmware.
- --latest-sep: Tells FutureRestore to use the latest compatible SEP firmware. (Use with caution, may cause issues.)
- --latest-baseband: Tells FutureRestore to use the latest compatible baseband firmware. (Use with caution, may cause issues.)
- your_ios_version.ipsw: Specifies the path to the IPSW file you want to downgrade to.
Important Notes:
- Ensure you have the correct arguments and file paths.
- Read the FutureRestore documentation carefully for the most up-to-date command syntax and options.
- Using `–latest-sep` and `–latest-baseband` can sometimes lead to issues. It’s generally safer to provide the SEP and Baseband files directly.
Wait for the Process to Complete: FutureRestore will now perform the downgrade. This process can take a significant amount of time. Do not interrupt it. The output in the command prompt/Terminal will provide information on the progress.
Handle Errors: If you encounter errors during the process, carefully read the error messages and consult online resources and forums for troubleshooting.
Restore from Backup: Once the downgrade is complete, your device will restart and display the setup screen. Follow the on-screen instructions to set up your device and restore your data from the backup you created earlier.

Method 3: Using Older Jailbreak Tools (Rare and Device-Specific)

In some rare cases, older jailbreak tools might offer the ability to downgrade iOS versions, particularly on older devices. This method is highly device-specific and dependent on the availability of exploits and tools for your particular device and target iOS version. This method is not commonly used anymore and is included here for completeness.

Warning: This method is even more advanced and carries a very high risk of bricking your device. It’s only recommended for experienced users who are comfortable with jailbreaking and have a deep understanding of iOS internals.

Disclaimer: Providing specific instructions for this method is not possible due to its highly device-specific and tool-dependent nature. You’ll need to research and find relevant resources for your specific device and iOS version. Search for jailbreak tools or guides specific to your device that mention downgrading capabilities.

The general steps involved might include:

Research and Find a Suitable Jailbreak Tool: Look for a jailbreak tool that supports downgrading on your device and target iOS version.
Prepare Your Device: Follow the specific instructions provided by the jailbreak tool, which might involve putting your device into DFU mode or Recovery Mode.
Run the Jailbreak Tool: Execute the jailbreak tool and follow its instructions to initiate the downgrade process.
Restore from Backup: Once the downgrade is complete, restore your data from your backup.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Downgrading iOS can be a complex process, and you might encounter issues along the way. Here are some common problems and potential solutions:

Error 3194, Error 1671, or Other iTunes/Finder Errors: These errors often indicate a problem with Apple’s signing servers. Make sure you have the latest version of iTunes/Finder and that your computer can connect to Apple’s servers. Check your hosts file to ensure it’s not blocking Apple’s servers. If you’re using a VPN or proxy, try disabling it.
Device Stuck in Recovery Mode: If your device gets stuck in Recovery Mode, try using a tool like ReiBoot or TinyUmbrella to kick it out of Recovery Mode.
FutureRestore Errors: Carefully read the error messages and consult online resources and forums for troubleshooting. Make sure you have the correct SHSH blobs, IPSW file, and SEP/Baseband firmware. Check the FutureRestore documentation for the most up-to-date command syntax and options.
Boot Loop: If your device gets stuck in a boot loop (continuously restarts), try restoring it to the latest signed iOS version using iTunes/Finder. This will erase your data, so hopefully, you have a backup.
Data Loss: This is why backups are essential. If you didn’t back up your device, there’s unfortunately little you can do to recover your data.

After Downgrading: Important Considerations

After successfully downgrading your iOS device, keep the following in mind:

Security: Older iOS versions may contain security vulnerabilities. Be extra cautious when browsing the web, installing apps, and connecting to public Wi-Fi networks.
App Compatibility: Some newer apps might not be compatible with your older iOS version.
Future Updates: You might not be able to update to the latest iOS versions through the standard software update mechanism. You may need to use FutureRestore or other advanced methods to upgrade in the future.
Jailbreaking (Optional): If you downgraded specifically to jailbreak your device, you can now proceed with the jailbreaking process. However, remember that jailbreaking voids your warranty and can pose security risks.

Conclusion

Downgrading iOS can be a complex and risky process, but it can be beneficial in certain situations. Before attempting to downgrade, carefully consider the risks and prerequisites, and make sure you have a full backup of your device. If you’re not comfortable with the technical aspects involved, it’s best to seek help from an experienced technician or avoid downgrading altogether. Always prioritize data safety and be prepared for the possibility of encountering issues. While Apple doesn’t generally support downgrading, understanding the methods and risks involved can empower you to make informed decisions about your iOS device.

Disclaimer

This guide is for informational purposes only. Downgrading iOS involves risks, and the author is not responsible for any damage or data loss that may occur during the process. Proceed at your own risk.