Struggling with iOS 26? Here’s how to downgrade to iOS 18.6.2 for a smoother iPhone

Apple just launched iOS 26 for everyone, bringing big new visual changes. But many users are seeing small stutters and bugs in daily use. It is happening because Apple’s first builds are usually buggy, and the new Liquid Glass interface also takes some time to get used to.

The good news is Apple is still signing iOS 18.6.2, which means users can downgrade to this older version if they are unhappy with iOS 26. Downgrading is possible but not simple, and you must follow the right steps to return to iOS 18.6.2, as per the report by WCCFtech.

Downgrading will wipe your iPhone data, so you must back up all data. Export essentials like photos, notes, and voice memos too.


ALSO READ: Don’t install iOS 26 yet! 10 crucial iPhone settings you must change first

Steps to install iOS 18.6.2

Step 1 – Back up data through iCloud, Finder on Mac, or iTunes on Windows. Make multiple backups for safety.

Step 2 – Turn off Find My iPhone in Settings > Your Name > Find My > Find My iPhone. Also sign out of Apple ID to prevent Activation Lock issues.

Step 3 – Download the iOS 18.6.2 IPSW file from Apple’s official servers or IPSW.me. Pick the right file for your iPhone model and check that it is still being signed.

Step 4 – Connect your iPhone to your Mac or Windows PC using USB-C or Lightning cable. Make sure Finder (Mac) or iTunes (Windows) detects the iPhone first.

Step 5 – Put the iPhone into DFU mode. For Face ID models: press and release Volume Up, then Volume Down, hold the Side Button until screen goes black, then press Side + Volume Down together for 5 seconds, release Side but keep holding Volume Down until Finder detects the device.

Step 6 – Start the restore process. On Mac, open Finder, hold Option key, and click Restore iPhone. On Windows, use iTunes, hold Shift, then click Restore. Select the iOS 18.6.2 IPSW file you downloaded earlier.

Step 7 – Wait for the process to finish. The iPhone will restart multiple times during installation. Keep it connected and powered until it is done.

Step 8 – After restore, either set up the device as a New iPhone for maximum stability or restore from a compatible backup if available.

This downgrade option will not last forever. users will no longer be able to install iOS 18.6.2, once Apple stops signing in. So if you dislike iOS 26, it’s best to downgrade now. After downgrading, don’t forget to re-enable Find My iPhone and sign back in with your Apple ID, as stated in the report by WCCFtech.

FAQs

Q1. How can I downgrade from iOS 26 to iOS 18.6.2?
You can downgrade by backing up your data, turning off Find My iPhone, downloading the correct iOS 18.6.2 file, and restoring it through Finder on Mac or iTunes on Windows.

Q2. Will downgrading from iOS 26 erase my iPhone data?
Yes, downgrading completely wipes your iPhone, so you must back up your files before starting the process.