This wikiHow teaches you how to restore your iOS device to an earlier software version. A reversion will erase the contents of the device and you will not be able to restore the backup data of the operating system currently in use. Also, Apple only allows users to downgrade iOS about one week after the new iOS version is released.
Step
Step 1. Visit the iPhone Software website
The iPhone Software (IPSW) file requires authorization from Apple in order to apply. Typically, Apple will continue to authorize for one week after a new software update is released.
If you want to downgrade the latest iOS version to iOS 10.3, for example, you can do so within one week of the release date of the latest software update
Step 2. Click the device type
Choose " iPhone ”, “ iPad ", or " iPod ” on the page.
Step 3. Click the device model
For example, select iPhone 7 (Global) ” if you are using an iPhone 7 (international SIM card, including Indonesia).
Step 4. Review the green links at the top of the page
Usually, you'll see two links: a link for the current latest iOS (e.g. iOS 10.3) and a link for an earlier iOS one (e.g. iOS 10.2.1). Click the older iOS version you want.
- The red links are IPSW files that are no longer flagged by Apple. These files cannot be used on iDevice.
- If the device is already running an iOS version that is earlier than the two IPSW files shown, you cannot downgrade the iOS version again.
Step 5. Click on the older update
Usually, these updates are under the top link.
Step 6. Click Download
It's at the bottom of the page. After that, the IPSW file will be downloaded immediately.
- You may need to first select a file storage location (eg desktop), depending on your browser settings.
- The IPSW file download takes about half an hour.
Step 7. Open iTunes
This app is marked by a white icon with colorful musical notes.
You may be asked to click “ Download iTunes ” if there is an update. In this situation, first update iTunes and restart the computer before moving on to the next step.
Step 8. Connect iPhone to computer
Plug the larger end of the charging cable into your computer's USB port, and the smaller end of the cable into your iPhone.
Step 9. Click the “Device” icon
It's an iPhone icon at the top of the left sidebar of the iTunes window.
Step 10. Hold down Shift. key (PC) or Options (Mac) and click Restore iPhone.
After that, a search window will appear and you can select the IPSW file that was previously downloaded.
You must disable the "Find My iPhone" feature first if prompted
Step 11. Click the IPSW file
This file is usually stored in your computer's main downloads folder and is marked by the iTunes logo.
Step 12. Click Open
It's at the bottom of the window. After that, the IPSW file will open in iTunes and a pop-up window will appear.
Step 13. Click Restore when prompted
iTunes will completely empty iPhone data and reinstall the previous iOS version.
