Downgrading iOS and iPadOS Betas: A Step-by-Step Guide

Are you regretting installing the latest iOS 26 beta or iPadOS 26 beta on your iPhone or iPad? Do you want to revert back to a previous, non-beta version of your operating system? Look no further! This guide will walk you through the step-by-step process of downgrading your iPhone or iPad to a previous version.

Why Downgrade?

Before we dive into the steps, let's discuss why you might want to downgrade:

• You're experiencing bugs or issues that aren't present on the non-beta version.
• You prefer the stability and security of an earlier operating system.
• You're a developer who needs access to specific features that are only available in the beta.

Step 1: Back Up Your Data

Before you start the downgrade process, make sure to back up your important data. This will ensure that you don't lose any valuable information during the process.

• Connect your iPhone or iPad to a computer using a USB cable.
• Open iTunes (on Windows) or Finder (on Mac).
• Select your device and click "Back Up Now" to create a backup of your data.

Step 2: Download the Previous Version

To download the previous version, you'll need to visit the Apple Support website and find the latest non-beta version. You can then download the update using iTunes or Finder.

• Go to Apple Support and click on "iOS" or "iPadOS."
• Click on the "Update to Previous Version" button.
• Select the non-beta version you want to download.

Step 3: Install the Previous Version

Once you've downloaded the previous version, you'll need to install it on your iPhone or iPad. This will overwrite any changes you made since installing the beta.

• Connect your device to a computer using a USB cable.
• Open iTunes (on Windows) or Finder (on Mac).
• Click "Update" and select the downloaded file.
• Wait for the installation process to complete.

Step 4: Restore Your Device

After installing the previous version, you'll need to restore your device to its original settings.

• Go to Settings > [General/Device] and tap "Reset."
• Tap "Erase All Content and Settings" to start the restoration process.
• Wait for your device to restart and complete the restoration process.

Step 5: Verify Your Device

Once you've completed the restoration process, verify that your device is now running the previous version of iOS or iPadOS.

• Go to Settings > [General/Device] and check the version number.
• Make sure that all features and apps are working as expected.

Troubleshooting Tips

Here are some troubleshooting tips to help you overcome common issues during the downgrade process:

• Error 4013: If you encounter an error 4013, it means that your device is still connected to Apple's servers. Try disconnecting from the internet and restarting your device.
• Software Update Failure: If you experience a software update failure, try restarting your device or connecting it to a different computer.

Conclusion

Downgrading iOS and iPadOS betas can be a bit of a challenge, but with these step-by-step instructions, you should be able to successfully revert back to a previous version. Remember to back up your data before starting the process and verify that your device is working as expected after completing the restoration.

### Step 6: Remove Beta Configuration

After downgrading, remove any beta configuration files that may still be present on your device.

• Go to Settings > [General/Device] and tap "Reset."
• Tap "Remove All Configurations" to delete any remaining beta settings.

Final Check

Congratulations! You've successfully downgraded your iPhone or iPad to a previous version of iOS or iPadOS. Take this opportunity to review the new operating system features and enjoy the stability and security that comes with it.