iOS 26 Update: No Way Back to iOS 18 After Upgrade!

As is customary, one week after the release of an iOS update, Apple stops signing the previous version. However, when the update is as significant as iOS 26, this action takes on greater importance. As of a few hours ago, iOS 18.6.2 is no longer being signed by Apple. This means that if you have upgraded to iOS 26, there’s no going back. The latest version of the operating system becomes the only one that can be installed on updated devices.

When Apple signs a system, it means the system undergoes a validation check by Apple’s servers at the time of installation. This process prevents the installation of versions considered to be outdated or less secure. By stopping the signing of a version, Apple effectively restricts access to it.

Inclusion of iPadOS and tvOS

Users still have the option to remain on iOS 18, as Apple does not compel upgrading. However, once the upgrade is made, reverting to a previous version is no longer an option. The same applies to iPadOS 18.6.2 and tvOS 18.6, which have also been removed from Apple’s validation servers.

Meanwhile, Apple has also released iOS 18.7, but it is now impossible to “go back” to this version. As we write, iOS 26 is encountering a significant issue. In some instances, the operating system has compatibility issues with certain SIM cards. Additionally, we have received multiple reports indicating that the VoiceOver feature is behaving unpredictably.