How to Downgrade from the iOS 26 Beta to iOS 18
If you've installed the iOS 26 beta on your iPhone and it’s causing issues, such as app crashes, performance problems, or poor battery life, you may want to switch back to iOS 18, the last stable public version. While Apple doesn't make downgrading simple, it’s still possible with the right steps. This guide will walk you through the full process in clear and simple terms.
If you're unsure about doing it yourself, you can visit our expert technicians at iFixScreens - our team can assist with iOS downgrades, software resets, and full device restorations.
Key Takeaways
- Downgrading will erase your data - backup beforehand if possible.
- Only downgrade to signed iOS versions.
- You’ll need a computer and IPSW file to complete the process.
- iFixScreens can assist if you're uncomfortable doing it yourself.
Key Things to Know Before Downgrading
Your device will be erased – this means all your apps, settings, and data will be deleted.
You cannot restore a backup made from iOS 26 to iOS 18 – if you didn’t back up your iPhone while it was still on iOS 18, you’ll have to set it up as new.
You’ll need a Mac or Windows computer with iTunes or Finder.
You must turn off Find My iPhone – go to Settings > [Your Name] > Find My > Find My iPhone, and turn it off using your Apple ID password.
Step-by-Step: How to Downgrade from iOS 26 Beta to iOS 18
Step 1: Download the iOS 18 IPSW File
Select your exact iPhone model.
Download the latest signed iOS 18 IPSW file (signed files are still approved by Apple and safe to install).
Be careful to select the correct IPSW file for your device, as installing the wrong version can cause errors.
Step 2: Put Your iPhone in Recovery Mode
This step prepares your iPhone to accept a clean install of iOS 18:
For iPhones with Face ID:
Quickly press and release Volume Up, then Volume Down, then hold the Side button until you see the recovery screen (a computer and cable icon).
For iPhones with a Home button:
Hold the Home button + Power button together until the recovery screen appears.
Don’t release the buttons until you see the recovery mode screen.
Step 3: Connect Your iPhone to Your Computer
Open iTunes (on Windows or macOS Mojave and earlier) or Finder (on macOS Catalina and newer).
Your iPhone should appear with a prompt saying something like: “There is a problem with the iPhone that requires it to be updated or restored.”
Click on Restore while holding down:
Shift (on Windows) or
Option/Alt (on Mac)
A file browser will open. Select the iOS 18 IPSW file you downloaded earlier.
Step 4: Let the Software Install
Your computer will now erase your iPhone and install iOS 18.
This process can take 10–20 minutes.
Do not disconnect the device until the installation is fully complete.
Once finished, your iPhone will restart and show the “Hello” setup screen.
Step 5: Restore Your Data (If Possible)
If you have a backup from iOS 18, you can now restore your data:
- Choose “Restore from iCloud Backup” or “Restore from Mac/PC” during the setup.
- If you don’t have an older backup, you'll need to set up your device as new.
Can You Downgrade Without a Computer?
Unfortunately, you cannot downgrade from iOS 26 beta to iOS 18 over the air. A computer is required to manually load the earlier version of the iOS system using the IPSW file.
Final Thoughts:
Downgrading from iOS 26 beta to iOS 18 is definitely doable, but it requires careful steps, a reliable internet connection (for IPSW downloads), and a functioning computer. If you backed up your iPhone while on iOS 18, you’ll be able to get most of your data back. If not, You'll have to start over.
If you find these steps too complex or prefer expert assistance, reaching out to a trusted service like iFixScreens is a smart and reliable choice. In addition to handling iOS downgrades, our technicians can help resolve any issues that may arise during or after the process. To get started, simply visit one of the nearest iFixScreens stores and let our experts take care of the rest.
Whether you choose to do it yourself or rely on our expert support, downgrading allows you to restore a more stable and dependable iOS experience.
FAQs
Q. How to revert iOS 26 to 18?
A. You can revert by connecting your iPhone to a computer, entering recovery mode, and restoring iOS 18 using a downloaded IPSW file via iTunes or Finder.
Q. Can I uninstall an iOS update?
A. You can't uninstall an update directly, but you can erase the device and reinstall an older iOS version if it's still signed by Apple.
Q. Can you downgrade from iOS 26?
A. Yes, but only if Apple is still signing iOS 18. You’ll need a computer, the right IPSW file, and to follow a manual restore process.
Q. Is it possible to downgrade the iOS version?
A. Yes, but only to versions that Apple still signs. Once a version is unsigned, downgrading to it isn’t possible through official methods.