Alex Ruben
How To Downgrade Your iPhone from iOS 26 to iOS 18 in 2025
If your iPhone is stuck on iOS 26 and you really wanna go back to iOS 18, it’s kind of a weird process, but it’s doable if you follow the steps right. Downgrading can fix bugs or slowdowns after newer updates, and sometimes some older apps just refuse to run smoothly on the latest iOS. Anyway, here’s what’s worked for those who’ve been in your shoes — not perfect, but at least it’s a route.
Step 1: Disable Screen Time Restrictions
Start by disabling any Screen Time restrictions because these can block the downgrade or erase commands. To do that:
- Open the Settings app on the iPhone.
- Scroll down and tap Screen Time.
- Tap on Content & Privacy Restrictions.
- Toggle off Content & Privacy Restrictions. On some setups, this might ask for a passcode, so have that handy.
This helps avoid weird errors during the restore, especially if restrictions are still active. Honestly, on some machines, toggling this off took a reboot or two for it to stick.
Step 2: Turn Off Automatic Updates
Next, you don’t wanna have your iPhone sneakily updating itself after you downgrade, so turn off Automatic Updates.
- Go back to Settings.
- Select General.
- Tap on Software Update.
- Switch off Automatic Updates.
- If Beta updates are enabled (like public betas), turn those off too. They can mess with the downgrade process.
This step is crucial unless you want it to re-up to iOS 26 the second it can.
Step 3: Erase All Content and Settings
Here’s where things get serious — you gotta wipe the slate clean to install an older iOS. So:
- Open Settings again.
- Navigate to General > Transfer or Reset iPhone.
- Tap on Erase All Content and Settings.
- Confirm and follow the prompts. Might ask for your Apple ID password or passcode.
Note: This deletes everything, so backup first unless you wanna lose those photos and messages. If you’ve got iCloud sync on, your stuff will come back, but better safe than sorry.
Step 4: Get That iOS 18 IPSW and Install
This is where the technical stuff kicks in. You need the right firmware file for your device, called an IPSW. Make sure it’s for your iPhone model and iOS 18 — no messing around with the wrong one or you’ll brick it. Sites like ipsw.me are usually safe bets.
Once you’ve downloaded the IPSW:
- Plug your iPhone into your Mac or PC with a Lightning or USB-C cable.
- Open Finder if you’re on macOS Catalina or later. For older Macs or Windows, open iTunes.
- Select your device from the sidebar or top menu.
- Hold down the Option key (Mac) or Shift key (Windows), then click Restore iPhone.
- Navigate to where you saved the IPSW file and select it.
- Confirm and let the process run. It might take a few minutes. Don’t unplug during the install; patience is key.
And yes, sometimes this fails the first time, especially if the Apple servers aren’t signing the older iOS anymore. You might need to check signing status on sites like signed.ipsw.me before proceeding.
Extra Tips & Common Issues
Some quick notes —
- Back up first, just in case. Use iCloud or your computer. Better safe than sorry, especially since erasing destroys local data.
- If the restore hangs or errors out, try putting your iPhone into DFU mode. It’s kinda like a deep reset, and sometimes helps out when normal restore fails. You can find the process online, usually involves a combo of buttons on the device.
- Make sure your battery’s above 50%, or keep it plugged in during the process. Power interruptions are the worst.
- After downgrading, check your date and time settings are correct — weird firmware issues happen if they aren’t.
Hitting this downgrade route isn’t perfect all the time, but it’s the way to go if you’re desperate to revert from iOS 26 to 18. Just follow the steps, don’t skip backups, and be patient with the firmware signing stuff. On some setups, it works like a charm; on others, it’s a bit more stubborn. Still, a better shot than just crying about it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I downgrade to any version of iOS?
Nope, only the versions Apple is currently signing. The signing window is kinda short, so check before you get too deep. Sites like signed.ipsw.me tell you which firmwares are good to go.
Will I lose all my data?
Yes, erasing your iPhone wipes everything. If you’ve got a backup, restore after downgrading. Otherwise, beware of losing photos, texts, and app data.
What if it just refuses to work or gets stuck?
Try restarting everything, rechecking your IPSW compatibility, or entering DFU mode. Sometimes, waiting a bit and trying again makes all the difference. And yeah, sometimes Apple’s signing window closes just when you’re about to finish — frustrating, I know.
Summary
- Disable Screen Time restrictions before messing with the firmware.
- Turn off auto updates, otherwise it might upgrade again right after you downgrade.
- Erase everything — it’s the only way to install an older iOS version cleanly.
- Download the correct IPSW, make sure it’s signed, and install via Finder or iTunes.
- Patience and backup are your best friends. Expect some trial and error.
Hopefully this shaves off a few hours for someone.