Since Apple is still signing iOS 26.4.2 and iPadOS 26.4.2, you can downgrade your iPhone and iPad from version 26.5 right now.

Apple is Still Signing iOS 26.4.2 and iPadOS 26.4.2, Downgrade from iOS 26.5 and iPadOS 26.5 Today

iOS 26.5 and iPadOS 26.5 are big updates for iPhone and iPad in terms of stability. Needless to say that you should upgrade immediately rather than stick with older firmware.

However, not everyone might agree with latest software updates from Apple for a wide variety of reasons. If you are one of them and wish to downgrade back to iOS 26.4.2 or iPadOS 26.4.2, then you’ve come to the right place.

You can downgrade your iPhone and iPad from iOS 26.5 and iPadOS 26.5 to iOS 26.4.2 and iPadOS 26.4.2, because Apple is still signing the older firmware. But do keep in mind that it is a tricky process since the chances are high that things may go wrong.

Backup Your Data

Backup your iPhone and iPad using Finder or iCloud right now, because the downgrade process will erase your device completely. If you forget to take that backup, your data is lost for good. Make sure you do not skip this step at all.

Disable Find My on iPhone and iPad

You must disable Find My on your iPhone and iPad otherwise you won’t be able to restore the iOS 26.4.2 or iPadOS 26.4.2 firmware file. You’ll find all the necessary steps posted here.

Download the iOS 26.4.2 and iPadOS 26.4.2 Firmware File

Download the correct firmware file for your device, and save it to your Mac’s desktop:

Steps for Downgrade

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

Step 2. Now launch Finder from the Dock.

Step 3. On the list of options on your left, you should see your iPhone or iPad as a connected device. Click on it to reveal more options.

Step 4. If you’ve connected your iPhone, you will see a ‘Restore iPhone’ button. If it’s an iPad, then the button will read ‘Restore iPad.’ Press and hold the left Option key on the keyboard and click on the Restore button.

Step 5. A new window will open. Now simply find the firmware file you saved to your desktop and double-click it.

Step 6. Finder will now start to extract the content of the firmware and restore it onto your iPhone and iPad. Once done, the downgrade will be complete and you will be back to iOS 26.4.2 or iPadOS 26.4.2.

Categorized in:

Apple, iPad, iPhone, Tips & Tricks,

Last Update: May 13, 2026