Here’s a complete step by step tutorial on how to downgrade iOS 18.4.1 or iPadOS 18.4.1 to iOS 18.4 or iPadOS 18.4.

Apple is Signing iOS 18.4 and iPadOS 18.4, Downgrade from iOS 18.4.1 and iPadOS 18.4.1 is Possible for a Short While

The latest update for iPhone and iPad is out. Version 18.4.1 includes an important fix for wireless CarPlay users, as well as bug fixes and security updates.

If you want to downgrade from iOS 18.4.1 or iPadOS 18.4.1 back to iOS 18.4 or iPadOS 18.4 for any reason at all, you still have time to do that.

Currently, Apple is signing the older firmware and will continue to do so for the days to come.

While it may seem like you have a lot of time to downgrade, but there is a chance Apple may stop signing the older software as early as tomorrow, especially when you realize how important iOS 18.4.1 and iPadOS 18.4.1 are in terms of security.

Anyway, in order to downgrade, you have to do two things first:

  • Take a backup of everything using Finder or iCloud.
  • Turn off Find My on your iPhone and iPad.

Once you do that, make sure you download the correct iOS 18.4 or iPadOS 18.4 firmware file for your device and save it to your desktop.

Once the firmware file is done downloading, just follow these steps:

Step 1. Connect your iPhone or iPad to your Mac using a USB-C cable.

Step 2. Launch Finder.

Step 3. You should see your device in the list on the left. Click on it.

Step 4. Let everything load up and you should see a Restore iPhone or Restore iPad button. Hold down the Option key on your keyboard and click on it.

Step 5. A pop-up window will open. Select the iOS 18.4 or iPadOS 18.4 firmware file.

Step 6. Let Finder restore your iPhone or iPad. Once done, set up your device as new or restore the backup you took prior to performing the downgrade.

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Apple, iPad, iPhone, Tips & Tricks,

Last Update: April 16, 2025