iOS 26 Beta Causing Issues? Here’s How to Go Back to iOS 18
iOS 26 beta users face bugs, crashes, and battery drain. Learn how to safely downgrade your iPhone or iPad to iOS 18 with this easy guide.
image for illustrative purpose
Apple users testing the new iOS 26 and iPadOS 26 betas have reported performance issues and functionality problems, according to a report by MacRumors. Affected users describe app instability, unexpected shutdowns, incomplete features, and faster-than-usual battery drain.
These beta versions, released through Apple’s Developer Program and public Software Beta Program, are intended for early feature testing and feedback collection. However, early adopters have found them unsuitable for daily use.
Users who installed the beta builds have the option to return to the more reliable iOS 18 or iPadOS 18. Those with a backup created before the update can restore their device with minimal loss. Even without a backup, it is possible to revert, though this comes with some data loss and complications.
One key limitation affects those with Apple Watches running watchOS 26. A downgraded iPhone will no longer sync with a watch updated to the newer software. Furthermore, Apple does not provide a way for users to downgrade watchOS manually. In such cases, assistance from Apple Support is required.
Steps to Revert to iOS 18 or iPadOS 18:
1. Connect Device to Computer: Use a Lightning or USB-C cable to link your iPhone or iPad to a computer. Open Finder on macOS or iTunes on Windows.
2. Activate Recovery Mode:
* For iPhones XS and newer: Briefly press Volume Up, then Volume Down, and hold the Side button until the recovery screen appears.
* For iPads with Face ID: Quickly press Volume Up, then Volume Down, hold the Top button until the device restarts, and continue holding until the recovery screen displays.
3. Initiate Restore: When prompted, select “Restore” to erase the beta software and reinstall the latest public version of iOS or iPadOS.
4. Wait for Completion: The restore process will take several minutes. Users can then choose to set up the device as new or from a previous iOS 18/iPadOS 18 backup.
Apple has not confirmed when the final release of iOS 26 and iPadOS 26 will address these beta-related issues. Until then, users are advised to proceed cautiously with beta software, especially on primary devices.
