How to uninstall iOS 26 from iPhone

Phone users have received the massive iOS 26 update in a variety of ways. The new system brings a redesigned interface, Liquid Glass design, new ringtones, Apple Intelligence improvements, and dozens of tweaks. However, many have complained about bugs and instability, and some users think installing the update was a mistake.
A lot of people have complained about bugs and instability, and some users think installing the update was a mistake.
On the web, there’s some discussion about whether it’s possible to roll the system back. It’s possible, but it’s a complicated and risky process.
What you need to know before rolling back
Forums, including MacRumors, say that to go back to iOS 18, for example, you’ll need a backup from the previous version of the system. A backup from iOS 26 won’t work. What’s more, you could lose all of your device’s data in the process.
How the process works
- download the desired iOS version in .ipsw format via your developer account;
- set the device to hard reboot mode;
- perform a system restore and install the old firmware;
- upgrade data from an archived backup
For advanced users, the procedure is doable. But for most iPhone owners, it’s easier to wait for the next iOS 26 update with bug fixes.
Whether to rollback
Technically, a rollback is possible, but Apple doesn’t officially support it. So it remains a risky decision, especially for those who are inexperienced with firmware. The rest of us should either hold off until the next patch release or take advantage of the system’s updated features — everything from new lock screens to enhanced chat.