Ultimate Guide on How to Downgrade iOS 10

Here is a step-by-step guide on how to downgrade iOS 10

Updated Jan 22,2017 | by Mike

iOS 10 was referred to as the most significant software released; in fact, the release of the latest operating system became more newsworthy than the iPhone 7. It comes with various updates that excite the owners of Apple devices. However, there are users that experienced a sluggish performance of their device after upgrading to iOS 10. But do not fret since this article will serve as your guide on how to downgrade iOS 10.

Step-by-step Guide on How to Downgrade iOS 10

Before you proceed to the first step, we advise you to back-up your device first. If you want to roll back to the previous operating system, you will be wiping and then restoring your device which is why it is recommended to back up the phone using iCloud or ITunes. Or else, you will find yourself starting from scratch.

Step #1: Download the Previous Version of iOS

The first thing you need to do on how to downgrade iOS 10 is to manually download the previous iOS. Download the iOS which is compatible for your device. You may find the list of IPSW online, download the most recent IPSW that they offer and make sure that it is the signed version otherwise you will not be able to downgrade your operating system.

Step#2: Restore Your Device

After downloading the previous iOS, the next thing to do on how to downgrade iOS 10 is to plug-in your iPhone on your PC or MAC. Simply open the interface of iTunes then choose your device on the list. Hold the Shift key if you are on your PC and Alt/Option if you are on your MAC and then click the restore button. Choose the IPSW that you manually downloaded and the system should automatically restore like it’s a new device. Take note, if the ‘Find My iPhone’ feature has been enabled, you may need to disable it first.

Step #3: Troubleshooting

When you are just starting to learn on how to downgrade iOS 10, there are times that you will encounter some issues. One of the most common issues that you will run into is a notification from iTunes saying that you already have an iOS 10 running. To address this problem, you will need to put your Apple device into the recovery mode. To go into the recovery mode, turn off your device first and then hold down the home button while you are connecting the USB cable to your desktop computer. You should be able to see ‘connect to iTunes’ notification before you release the home button. ITunes will then notify you that your device is in the ‘recovery mode’. Hold the Alt/Option or Shift key and tap on the restore button. Choose the IPSW 9 which will automatically restore your device back to the previous iOS.

Remember that if iTunes stop allowing the previous version, you will not be able to downgrade to the previous iOS. But in the meantime, you can follow this comprehensive guide on how to downgrade iOS 10.

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