As a dedicated iOS user, I empathize with the disappointment when a new update falls short of our expectations. Whether it’s causing compatibility problems with specific apps or the removal of a favored feature, there are moments when reverting to a previous iOS version is necessary. In this article, I will provide a comprehensive walkthrough on how to downgrade from iOS 16 to iOS 15.
Before You Begin
Before we dive into the downgrade process, there are a few things you need to know:
- Make sure you have a backup of your data. Downgrading iOS can result in data loss, so it’s essential to have a recent backup.
- Downgrading iOS is only possible for a limited time after Apple releases a new update. Once Apple stops signing the previous version, you won’t be able to downgrade anymore.
- Downgrading iOS will erase all the data on your device, so it’s crucial to have a backup before proceeding.
Step 1: Check Signing Status
The first step is to check if Apple is still signing iOS 15. This is essential because without Apple’s signature, you won’t be able to install the previous version. To check the signing status, you can visit the ipsw.me website or any other reliable source that provides signing status information.
Step 2: Download the iOS 15 IPSW File
Assuming iOS 15 is still being signed, you’ll need to download the iOS 15 IPSW file specific to your device model. IPSW files are firmware files that contain the iOS operating system.
You can find the IPSW files on various websites that host firmware files. It’s important to download the correct IPSW file for your device model and iOS version to ensure a successful downgrade.
Step 3: Disable Find My iPhone
Before you can proceed with the downgrade, you’ll need to disable Find My iPhone on your device. Here’s how:
- Open the Settings app on your device.
- Tap on your Apple ID at the top of the screen.
- Select “Find My” from the list.
- Tap on “Find My iPhone”.
- Toggle off the “Find My iPhone” switch and enter your Apple ID password to confirm.
Step 4: Connect Your Device to Your Computer
Once you’ve downloaded the iOS 15 IPSW file and disabled Find My iPhone, it’s time to connect your device to your computer.
Make sure you have the latest version of iTunes or Finder (for macOS Catalina and later) installed on your computer. This will ensure a smooth downgrade process.
Step 5: Put Your Device in Recovery Mode
Before installing iOS 15, you’ll need to put your device in Recovery Mode. Follow these steps:
- Turn off your device.
- Press and hold the Home or Side button (depending on your device model) while connecting it to your computer with a USB cable.
- Keep holding the button until you see the “Connect to iTunes” or the Apple logo on the screen.
Step 6: Install iOS 15
Now that your device is in Recovery Mode, you can proceed with installing iOS 15.
In iTunes or Finder, you’ll see a message that says your device is in Recovery Mode and needs to be restored. Click on the “Restore” button while holding down the Option key (Mac) or the Shift key (Windows) on your keyboard.
A file browser will appear, allowing you to select the iOS 15 IPSW file you downloaded earlier. Find and select the IPSW file, and click “Open” to start the restore process.
Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation of iOS 15 on your device. The process may take some time, so be patient and make sure not to disconnect your device from the computer.
Step 7: Restore Your Data
Once the installation is complete, your device will restart and display the “Hello” screen. Follow the on-screen instructions to set up your device, and then restore your data from the backup you created before starting the downgrade.
Conclusion
Downgrading iOS can be a useful solution when you’re experiencing issues with the latest update. However, it’s essential to proceed with caution and follow the steps carefully to avoid any data loss or other complications. Remember to always have a backup before downgrading, and double-check the signing status of the previous version of iOS. By following these steps, you’ll be able to downgrade your iOS 16 to iOS 15 and enjoy a more stable and familiar experience on your device.