Forum Discussion

Zahirokin's avatar
Zahirokin
Copper Contributor
Mar 02, 2026

Possible to downgrade ios 26 to 18 without a computer as I don't like it

My iPhone 16 Pro Max was upgraded to iOS 26 one week ago, and honestly, I can't stand it. The battery life is terrible, the phone feels laggy, and I'm just not happy with the changes. I really want t...
Quincos's avatar
Quincos
Iron Contributor
Mar 03, 2026

At present, many people are searching for how to downgrade iOS 26 to 18. As i know. Downgrade Using Finder/iTunes with IPSW File is the best way. This is Apple's official method and is completely free. It requires a computer (Windows or Mac) .

Before You Start:

⚠️ This will erase all data on your iPhone

  • Back up your important data first (photos, contacts, etc.) using iCloud or manually transfer them
  • Turn off Find My iPhone: Settings > [Your Name] > Find My > Find My iPhone > Toggle OFF
  • Charge your battery to at least 50%

 

Step-by-Step Instructions of how to downgrade iOS 26 to 18:

Step 1: Check if iOS 18 is still being signed

  • Go to ipsw.me on your computer. Select your iPhone model and check if iOS 18 (or 18.5/18.6) is listed as "signed" . If it's not signed, this method won't work.

Step 2: Download the iOS 18 IPSW file

  • On the same website, download the correct IPSW firmware file for your specific iPhone model. Save it somewhere easy to find, like your Desktop .

Step 3: Connect your iPhone to your computer

  • Use a USB cable to connect your iPhone to your Windows PC or Mac .

Step 4: Put your iPhone into Recovery Mode :

  • iPhone 8 or newer (including iPhone 15/16): Quickly press and release Volume Up, then Volume Down. Then press and hold the Side button until you see the recovery mode screen (computer icon with cable).
  • iPhone 7/7 Plus: Press and hold Side + Volume Down buttons together.
  • iPhone 6s or earlier: Press and hold Home + Top/Side buttons.

Step 5: Restore using the IPSW file :

  • On Windows: Open iTunes. Hold the Shift key and click "Restore iPhone."
  • On Mac (Catalina or later): Open Finder. Hold the Option (Alt) key and click "Restore iPhone."
  • Browse and select the iOS 18 IPSW file you downloaded.

Step 6: Wait for the process to complete

  • Your computer will verify the file and install iOS 18. This takes 10-30 minutes. Your iPhone will restart when finished .

Step 7: Set up your iPhone

  • You'll need to set it up as new or restore from a backup made on iOS 18 (backups from iOS 26 won't work) .