Why Downgrade iOS 26?
While iOS 26 introduces innovative features like Liquid Glass UI and interactive widgets, some users find performance issues, bugs, or app compatibility problems. If you’re experiencing lag, instability, or simply want to return to a more stable version — downgrading from iOS 26 to iOS 18.5 might be the solution.
Whether you’re a developer or an everyday user, this guide shows you how to downgrade iOS 26 without data loss.
What You’ll Need Before Downgrading
Before jumping into the downgrade process, make sure you have the following tools ready:
- A Mac or Windows computer
- iPhone or iPad running iOS 26 Developer Beta
- A complete backup of your device of iOS 26 Developer Beta
- iOS 18.5 IPSW firmware file from its Official Website
- Non Mircrosoft version of iTunes installed on your PC
- A basic text editor like Notepad (Windows) or TextEdit (Mac)
Important Official Links
Step-by-Step: Downgrade iOS 26 to iOS 18.5
1) Download the iOS 18.5 Firmware
Go to ipsw website and choose your device model. Download the correct iOS 18.5 IPSW file and save it somewhere easy to locate.
2) Back Up Your Device
This step is critical to ensure you don’t lose personal data.
- Connect your device to the computer
- Open iTunes
- Click Back Up Now
- Wait until the backup completes successfully
3) Access and Edit the Backup Folder
For Windows:
Press Win + R, type:
%appdata%\Apple Computer\MobileSync
Look for the folder with your device’s UDID. Inside, open the Info.plist file in a text editor.
4) Modify Info.plist
Inside Info.plist:
- Search for
Product Versionand change its value to18.5 - Save and close the file
- Search for
5) Restore Using iTunes
- Open iTunes and connect your iPhone/iPad
- Hold
Shift(Windows) orOption(Mac) and click on Restore - Choose the iOS 18.5 IPSW file you downloaded
- Click Continue
⚠️ Warning: This will erase your device. Make sure your backup is ready to restore your data afterward.
6) Let the Restore Process Complete
Once done, iTunes will ask if you want to:
- Set up as new device
- Restore from backup
Choose Restore from Backup to keep your data.
Important Warnings Before Proceeding
- Apple may stop signing older iOS versions anytime. Check signing status at ipsw.me before proceeding.
- This method won’t work if iOS 18.5 is no longer signed.
- Ensure stable internet and enough free space on your computer.
- Make sure to restart iTunes after making modifications to the info.plist file.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I downgrade from iOS 26 without losing my data?
Yes, if you follow this method and have a backup, you can downgrade without data loss.
Is it legal and safe to downgrade iOS?
Yes. You’re using official IPSW files and iTunes, so it’s both legal and safe.
Will downgrading affect my device’s warranty?
No. Using iTunes to restore your device will not void your warranty.
How long does the downgrade process take?
The full process takes around 15–30 minutes, depending on your system and internet speed.
Will this work on all iOS 26 devices?
This works for most devices running iOS 26, as long as iOS 18.5 is still signed and supported for your device model.
Is iOS 18.5 signed?
Yes. Currently the firmware iOS 18.5 is signed. But make sure to download and flash it when its signed.
I tried from my Ipad but its empty in the %appdata%\Apple Computer\MobileSync folder how to recover ?
Do you have apple devices and itunes both installed? If yes. Uninstall apple devices and only use the itunes. And then backup using itunes