“How do I downgrade my iPhone from iOS 26 to iOS 18, my iPhone 13 crashes,That’s do what they’re supposed to”– iPhone 13 User shared.
Dislike the iOS 26 update? Frustrated with iOS 26 Problems? The only option left is to downgrade iOS 26 to 18. But, how do you do that?
In this post, we’ve reviewed 4 different methods to roll back to iOS 18, tailored for different scenarios and needs. We’ve also shared the pros, cons, and costs of each method so you can choose the most suitable one!
Yes, you can downgrade iOS 26 on iPhone to an older iOS, but under certain conditions. Apple only allows downgrades to versions it’s still “signing,” and once a version is no longer signed, you can’t install it without jailbreaking.
No, it is not possible to downgrade from iOS 26 to 18.5. Apple has stopped signing iOS 18.5, so downgrading to that version is no longer possible. The only downgrade option now is iOS 18.6.
However, the iOS 18.6 is still being signed, you can downgrade iOS 26 using a easy third-party tool, or an IPSW file, or Recovery Mode/DFU Mode. If you want to downgrade iOS 26 without a computer, you can do so by stopping iOS 26 Beta updates. Also, to remove iOS 26, you’ll need to back up your data (since the process erases your device), and turn off “Find My iPhone.”
Here are 4 ways to downgrade iOS 26 to iOS 18.6 on your iPhone. Pick a method based on your preference:
The first way to downgrade from iOS 26 to 18 is install a signed 18.6 IPSW firmware on your iPhone. However, this method requires technical skills and time over 1 hour, and you’ll need a computer with iTunes or a Mac with Finder.
Pricing: Free of cost.
Response speed: The process depends on your internet and computer , it takes more than 1hour.
User interface design: The operation is complicated and data loss is easy with a slight mistake.
Downgrade success rate: 80%
Steps to downgrade iOS 26 to iOS 18 via iTunes/Finder :
Step 1: Visit ipsw.me. Pick your iPhone model. Then, download the signed iOS 18 firmware.
Step 2: Connect your iPhone to a computer. Then, open iTunes on a Windows PC or Finder on a Mac. Hit “Trust” on your iPhone when asked.
Step 3: In iTunes or Finder, press “Shift” (PC) or “Option” (Mac). Hit “Restore iPhone.”
Step 4: Select the downloaded IPSW file. Confirm and wait for it to install. Then, set up your iPhone as new. Restore it from the backup.
I really recommend use this professional iOS 26 Downgrader tool Tenorshare ReiBoot ,offers an automatic way to downgrade to iOS 18 on your iPhone. It doesn’t require any technical skills, no iTunes/Finder, no jailbreak, or complicated steps. So, there’s no chance of bricking your iPhone.
It also offers numerous iOS repair and management features, like:
Pricing: Free Download ,Try 7 days for free
Response speed: Only needs 20 minutes High-Speed Downgrade and No Data Loss Guarantee.
User interface design: ReiBoot features a friendly interface,its operation is super easy,No ads. Even first-time users will find it easy to use.
Downgrade success rate: 100%
Steps to downgrade from iOS 26 to iOS 18 with Tenorshare ReiBoot:
Step 1: Download Tenorshare ReiBoot on PC or Mac. Then, connect the iPhone to the same computer. Trust the PC on your iPhone.
Step 2: Choose “iOS Upgrade/Downgrade.” Then, click “Downgrade.” Select “Download” to get a signed iOS 18 version.
Step 3: Tap “Initiating Downgrade.” Make sure you’ve backed up your data. Hit “Continue.” Your iPhone will be downgraded to the latest iOS 18 version and will reboot normally.
The third method to downgrade iOS 26 to 18 via Recovery Mode or DFU Mode. This method is useful if your iPhone is stuck on the Apple logo or keeps showing errors after updating to iOS 26, and especially when other downgrade methods don’t work. But if iTunes/Finder is unable to detect your iPhone in Recovery Mode, you can place it in the DFU Mode to downgrade.
Pricing: Free of cost.
Response Speed:Moderate to Slow – The process depends on IPSW download size (5–7 GB) and installation time.
User Interface Design:The interface is functional but not beginner-friendly;
Downgrade Success Rate:85%
Here’s how to downgrade an iPhone via Recovery Mode :
Step 1: Place your iPhone into Recovery Mode:
Step 2: iTunes/Finder will show a message to update or restore your iPhone. Hit “Restore”.
Step 3: Install the downloaded iOS 18.6 IPSW file.When the process completes, your iPhone will restart with iOS 18 .Restore it from the backup.
If you don’t want to use a computer to get your iPhone out from iOS 26, you can remove the iOS 26 Beta Profile to stop future Beta updates. But it can not downgrade iOS 26 to 18.
Pricing: Free of cost.
Here’s steps to remove iOS 26 update in the future:
Step 1: Open “Settings” on your iPhone. Then, choose “General.”
Step 2: Click “VPN & Device Management.” Next, remove the iOS 26 Beta Profile.
If you want to downgrade iOS 26 to 18 on your iPhone, there are both benefits and drawbacks to it. Here are its pros and cons:
Yes, you can go back to an older version of iOS 18 as long as Apple is still signing it.To prevent future automatic updates, you can disable automatic updates in Settings > General > Software Update > Automatic Updates.
Once an iOS update is installed, it cannot be removed or rolled back. Apple prevents users from reverting to earlier iOS versions after an update has been applied. You can only delete an update file that has been downloaded but not yet installed. However, it’s a complicated process, so if you want to avoid it, you can uninstall the update through a professional tool like Tenorshare ReiBoot.
Downgrade iOS 26 to 18 if Apple is still signing the older version. To downgrade, use manual methods like iTunes/Finder with a signed IPSW, Recovery/DFU Mode, or an automatic third-party tool. But each process comes with its own pros and cons. However, manual methods can be complicated and risky, so for most people, a easy and professional tool like Tenorshare ReiBoot is the quickest and safest choice. It functions without iTunes, is simple to use, and includes extra tools to manage iOS devices and fix software problems after downgrading.
Dislike the iOS 26 update? Frustrated with iOS 26 Problems? The only option left is to downgrade iOS 26 to 18. But, how do you do that?
In this post, we’ve reviewed 4 different methods to roll back to iOS 18, tailored for different scenarios and needs. We’ve also shared the pros, cons, and costs of each method so you can choose the most suitable one!
Can You Downgrade iOS 26 to a Lower Version?
Yes, you can downgrade iOS 26 on iPhone to an older iOS, but under certain conditions. Apple only allows downgrades to versions it’s still “signing,” and once a version is no longer signed, you can’t install it without jailbreaking.
How can I downgrade from iOS 26 to 18.5?
No, it is not possible to downgrade from iOS 26 to 18.5. Apple has stopped signing iOS 18.5, so downgrading to that version is no longer possible. The only downgrade option now is iOS 18.6.
4 Methods Reviews – Downgrade iOS 26 to 18
However, the iOS 18.6 is still being signed, you can downgrade iOS 26 using a easy third-party tool, or an IPSW file, or Recovery Mode/DFU Mode. If you want to downgrade iOS 26 without a computer, you can do so by stopping iOS 26 Beta updates. Also, to remove iOS 26, you’ll need to back up your data (since the process erases your device), and turn off “Find My iPhone.”
Here are 4 ways to downgrade iOS 26 to iOS 18.6 on your iPhone. Pick a method based on your preference:
Method 1: Downgrade via iTunes/Finder With Signed IPSW
The first way to downgrade from iOS 26 to 18 is install a signed 18.6 IPSW firmware on your iPhone. However, this method requires technical skills and time over 1 hour, and you’ll need a computer with iTunes or a Mac with Finder.
Pricing: Free of cost.
Response speed: The process depends on your internet and computer , it takes more than 1hour.
User interface design: The operation is complicated and data loss is easy with a slight mistake.
Downgrade success rate: 80%
| Downgrade via iTunes/Finder’s Pros | Downgrade via iTunes/Finder’s Cons |
| ● iTunes/Finder makes restoring straightforward. ● No Jailbreak is required, and it operates within Apple’s security rules. ● Can fix issues from the latest iOS. ● May bring back functions/apps that stopped working. | ● The process is complicated. ● Apple signs only recent versions. ● All data is erased, so a backup is required. ● The process is error-prone. ● Newer backups may not work on older iOS. ● Older iOS may have unpatched flaws. ● Must use a computer with iTunes/Finder. ● Downgrade process over 60 minutes |
Steps to downgrade iOS 26 to iOS 18 via iTunes/Finder :
Step 1: Visit ipsw.me. Pick your iPhone model. Then, download the signed iOS 18 firmware.
Step 2: Connect your iPhone to a computer. Then, open iTunes on a Windows PC or Finder on a Mac. Hit “Trust” on your iPhone when asked.
Step 3: In iTunes or Finder, press “Shift” (PC) or “Option” (Mac). Hit “Restore iPhone.”
Step 4: Select the downloaded IPSW file. Confirm and wait for it to install. Then, set up your iPhone as new. Restore it from the backup.
Method 2: 100% Downgrade Success Rate via Professional Tool – Tenorshare ReiBoot
I really recommend use this professional iOS 26 Downgrader tool Tenorshare ReiBoot ,offers an automatic way to downgrade to iOS 18 on your iPhone. It doesn’t require any technical skills, no iTunes/Finder, no jailbreak, or complicated steps. So, there’s no chance of bricking your iPhone.
It also offers numerous iOS repair and management features, like:
- It can upgrade to the latest iOS version, including Betas.
- It can repair 150+ iOS issues like boot loops & failures, iOS devices stuck on Recovery Mode or update screen, Apple logo, etc.
- It can also fix blue, green, white, pink, or black screen issues.
- It allows you to enter/exit Recovery Mode with a single tap.
- It can fix frequent iTunes errors.
Pricing: Free Download ,Try 7 days for free
Response speed: Only needs 20 minutes High-Speed Downgrade and No Data Loss Guarantee.
User interface design: ReiBoot features a friendly interface,its operation is super easy,No ads. Even first-time users will find it easy to use.
Downgrade success rate: 100%
| Downgrade via ReiBoot’s Pros | Downgrade via ReiBoot’s Cons |
| ● Doesn’t require iTunes to downgrade. ● No technical skills needed. ● Automatically downgrade in a few clicks. ● Removes iOS issues that happened because of iOS 26. ● Downgrade process within 30 minutes ● Automatically Back up your data | ● Requires a computer to downgrade. |
Steps to downgrade from iOS 26 to iOS 18 with Tenorshare ReiBoot:
Step 1: Download Tenorshare ReiBoot on PC or Mac. Then, connect the iPhone to the same computer. Trust the PC on your iPhone.
Step 2: Choose “iOS Upgrade/Downgrade.” Then, click “Downgrade.” Select “Download” to get a signed iOS 18 version.
Step 3: Tap “Initiating Downgrade.” Make sure you’ve backed up your data. Hit “Continue.” Your iPhone will be downgraded to the latest iOS 18 version and will reboot normally.
Method 3: Downgrade via Recovery Mode (Will Erase Data)
The third method to downgrade iOS 26 to 18 via Recovery Mode or DFU Mode. This method is useful if your iPhone is stuck on the Apple logo or keeps showing errors after updating to iOS 26, and especially when other downgrade methods don’t work. But if iTunes/Finder is unable to detect your iPhone in Recovery Mode, you can place it in the DFU Mode to downgrade.
Pricing: Free of cost.
Response Speed:Moderate to Slow – The process depends on IPSW download size (5–7 GB) and installation time.
User Interface Design:The interface is functional but not beginner-friendly;
Downgrade Success Rate:85%
| Pros | Cons |
| ● Helps restore iPhones stuck on the Apple logo or in a boot loop due to iOS 26. ● Reinstalls iOS to fix possible software damage. | ● Both modes erase all data, so a backup is needed. ● DFU mode needs precise timing and technical skill. ● Only supports signed iOS versions. ● Downgrade process over 50 minutes |
Here’s how to downgrade an iPhone via Recovery Mode :
Step 1: Place your iPhone into Recovery Mode:
- For iPhone 8/XR/11/12/13/14/15/16 : Press the “Volume Up” then, “Volume Down” button. Press and hold the “Power” button until the recovery screen appears.
- For iPhone 7/7 Plus: Press and hold the “Volume Down” and “Power” buttons until the recovery screen appears.
- iPhone 6s/5s/3s : Press and hold the “Home” and “Power” buttons until the recovery screen appears.
Step 2: iTunes/Finder will show a message to update or restore your iPhone. Hit “Restore”.
Step 3: Install the downloaded iOS 18.6 IPSW file.When the process completes, your iPhone will restart with iOS 18 .Restore it from the backup.
Way 4: Remove iOS 26 Beta Without a Computer
If you don’t want to use a computer to get your iPhone out from iOS 26, you can remove the iOS 26 Beta Profile to stop future Beta updates. But it can not downgrade iOS 26 to 18.
Pricing: Free of cost.
| Remove iOS 26 update Pros | Remove iOS 26 update Cons |
| ● Stops automatic Beta updates. ● You’ll receive the next official iOS release. ● No Computer is required, and done directly on the iPhone. ● Simple and quick to follow. ● There’s no data loss. | ● There’s no instant downgrade, and you stay on the Beta until the next stable release. ● It could take time before the next public iOS version is out. ● Current Beta issues will persist until you update. |
Here’s steps to remove iOS 26 update in the future:
Step 1: Open “Settings” on your iPhone. Then, choose “General.”
Step 2: Click “VPN & Device Management.” Next, remove the iOS 26 Beta Profile.
Downgrade iOS 26 to 18: Pros and Cons
If you want to downgrade iOS 26 to 18 on your iPhone, there are both benefits and drawbacks to it. Here are its pros and cons:
| Pros | Cons |
| ● Older stable versions are less buggy than Betas, reducing crashes, overheating, and battery drain. ● Some apps function better on older iOS versions. ● Downgrading can fix lag or glitches from the latest update. ● Brings back functions or apps that stopped working after the update. ● Lets you avoid new features you don’t like. | ● Downgrading erases your phone, and backups from newer iOS versions may not work on older ones. ● iOS 26 backups may be incompatible with iOS 18, forcing you to set up as new. ● Older iOS versions may have unpatched security flaws. ● Some apps might only work well on newer iOS versions. ● The process can fail or cause glitches. ● You must use a computer with iTunes or Finder. ● A watch updated to watchOS 26 may not work with a downgraded iPhone. ● You lose new tools and improvements from iOS 26. ● You can only downgrade to versions Apple still signs, and iOS 18.5 is no longer signed. ● Recent chat history might be lost. |
FAQs
1. Can I go back to an older version of iOS 18?
Yes, you can go back to an older version of iOS 18 as long as Apple is still signing it.To prevent future automatic updates, you can disable automatic updates in Settings > General > Software Update > Automatic Updates.
2. How do I uninstall an iOS update?
Once an iOS update is installed, it cannot be removed or rolled back. Apple prevents users from reverting to earlier iOS versions after an update has been applied. You can only delete an update file that has been downloaded but not yet installed. However, it’s a complicated process, so if you want to avoid it, you can uninstall the update through a professional tool like Tenorshare ReiBoot.
Conclusion
Downgrade iOS 26 to 18 if Apple is still signing the older version. To downgrade, use manual methods like iTunes/Finder with a signed IPSW, Recovery/DFU Mode, or an automatic third-party tool. But each process comes with its own pros and cons. However, manual methods can be complicated and risky, so for most people, a easy and professional tool like Tenorshare ReiBoot is the quickest and safest choice. It functions without iTunes, is simple to use, and includes extra tools to manage iOS devices and fix software problems after downgrading.