You can downgrade iOS 26.3 to iOS 26.2.1 on iPhone and iPadOS 26.3 to iPadOS 26.2.1 on iPad, but for a limited time only.

Apple Still Signing iOS 26.2.1 and iPadOS 26.2.1, Downgrade from iOS 26.3 and iPadOS 26.3 Possible on iPhone and iPad

Although iOS 26.3 and iPadOS 26.3 are fantastic updates, if you want to downgrade back to iOS 26.2.1 on iPhone or iPadOS 26.2.1 on iPad, you do have that option as long as Apple is signing the older firmware.

Backup Everything and Disable Find My

But before you do that, you have to take a backup of your device using iCloud or Finder, and disable Find My. Once you’re done with both, move on to the next step.

Download and Save iOS 26.2.1 and iPadOS 26.2.1 Firmware Files

Download the correct firmware file for your iPhone and iPad and save it to your desktop:

Downgrade Process

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

Step 2. Launch Finder.

Step 3. Find your device in the left hand side of Finder and click on it.

Step 4. You’ll see a bunch of options on the right, just press and hold the left Option key on your keyboard and then click on the ‘Restore iPhone’ or ‘Restore iPad’ button.

Step 5. You’ll see a new pop-up window. Choose the iOS 26.2.1 or iPadOS 26.2.1 firmware file you downloaded a while ago.

Step 6. Finder will extract the contents of the firmware file and restore it to your device.

The whole downgrade process may take up to 15 minutes. Once complete, your device will boot straight into the Hello screen, ready to be used once again.

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Apple, iPad, iPhone, Tips & Tricks,

Last Update: February 12, 2026