Downgrading iPhone From iOS 18.5 to iOS 18.4.1 Is No Longer Possible
Apple has officially stopped signing iOS 18.4.1, just one week after releasing iOS 18.5. This means users who have already updated to iOS 18.5 can no longer downgrade to iOS 18.4.1.
What Does “Stopped Signing” Mean?
When Apple “signs” an iOS version, it’s performing a server-side verification to ensure the software is valid and secure before allowing installation on a device. Once a version is no longer signed, it cannot be installed, even if you have the file.
This process is Apple’s way of:
- Preventing the installation of outdated or potentially insecure software
- Ensuring users are running the latest, most secure version of iOS
Why iOS 18.4.1 Was Unsigned
Apple typically unsigns older versions of iOS about a week after a new release. iOS 18.5 includes:
- New default wallpaper
- Improved parental controls (including Screen Time password changes)
- Support for carrier-based satellite services on iPhone 13 models
- Fixes for over 30 security vulnerabilities
These improvements make iOS 18.5 a more secure and feature-rich version, which is why Apple is encouraging users to stay up to date.
If you have yet to update to iOS 18.5 and are looking to do so, here’s how to get started: Download iOS 18.5, iPadOS 18.5 IPSW Links Released For iPhone and iPad
What About iPads?
Apple has also stopped signing iPadOS 17.7.6 following the release of iPadOS 17.7.8. The latest iPadOS update fixes issues caused by the problematic 17.7.7 version and includes critical security improvements for older iPads.
If you’re running iOS 18.5 or iPadOS 17.7.8, downgrading is no longer possible. Apple’s move helps ensure users benefit from the latest features and important security protections.
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