Apple won’t allow you to downgrade your iPhone to iOS 26.2 anymore

When Apple releases an iOS update, there is usually a short grace period where you can change your mind and roll back. That window has now closed for iOS 26.2. As of today, Apple has stopped signing the update, making downgrades officially off the table.

This move follows last week’s release of iOS 26.2.1 and was first spotted by MacRumors. If your iPhone is already on 26.2.1, there is no going back to 26.2 or any earlier version.

What this actually means for your iPhone

Apple stopping the signing process is its usual way of nudging users forward. Without Apple’s approval servers, older versions simply cannot be installed, even with a full restore.

ALSO READ: Apple drops an unexpected iOS 26.2.1 update

Now, as for iOS 26.2.1, it is not a dramatic update. The release notes were brief, calling out support for the second-generation AirTag and a round of bug fixes. No specific security vulnerabilities or CVE listings were mentioned, which suggests this is more about platform stability than an emergency patch. Still, Apple’s message is clear: stay current.

More iOS versions quietly retired

Alongside iOS 26.2, Apple has also stopped signing several older releases across its ecosystem. That includes iOS 12.5.7, 15.8.5, 16.7.12, and 18.7.3, following the rollout of their respective point updates.

Thankfully, iOS 26.2.1 is a relatively small download at around 840MB and installs quickly. Have you updated your iPhone to iOS 26.2.1? Drop a comment to let us know.