Have you recently upgraded to a newer iOS version and found yourself missing the features or the overall experience of a previous version? Perhaps you’re experiencing compatibility issues with your favorite apps or are facing performance problems. Whatever the reason, you might be thinking about downgrading your iPhone or iPad from iOS 12 to iOS 9.
While Apple doesn’t officially support downgrading to older iOS versions, it is possible to do so with the right steps and precautions. This guide will provide a comprehensive overview of the process, explaining the prerequisites, the steps involved, and the potential risks you need to consider.
Why Would You Want to Downgrade?
Before diving into the technical details, let’s understand why someone might want to downgrade from a newer iOS version to an older one. Here are some common reasons:
1. App Compatibility: Some apps, especially older ones, may not be compatible with newer iOS versions. If you rely on an older app that is no longer supported by the latest iOS, downgrading might be the only solution.
2. Performance Issues: Newer iOS versions sometimes introduce performance issues, especially for older devices. If your iPhone or iPad is experiencing lag, crashes, or slow app loading times, downgrading might improve performance.
3. Feature Preference: Some users prefer the design, features, or overall experience of an older iOS version. Maybe you miss a specific feature that was removed in a newer version or find the user interface more intuitive on an older version.
4. Security Concerns: While newer iOS versions generally include improved security features, there might be cases where a vulnerability in a specific version makes you feel less secure. Downgrading to a version considered more stable in this regard might be a temporary solution until Apple releases a fix.
Important Considerations Before Downgrading
While downgrading can solve certain issues, it’s not without its downsides. Before you proceed, consider these points carefully:
1. Data Loss: Downgrading will erase all data on your device, including apps, settings, and photos. Make sure to back up your data to iCloud or iTunes before proceeding.
2. Compatibility Issues: Apps that were not compatible with the older iOS version might stop working after you downgrade.
3. Security Risks: Downgrading to an older iOS version could leave you vulnerable to security threats that have been patched in newer versions.
4. Availability: Apple may have stopped signing the iOS 9 firmware, meaning you can’t download it directly through iTunes. In this case, you’ll need to find a compatible IPSW file.
5. Technical Difficulty: Downgrading can be a complex process, requiring some technical knowledge and patience.
Prerequisites for Downgrading
Before starting the downgrade process, ensure you have the following:
- A Backup of Your Data: Create a backup of your iPhone or iPad using iTunes or iCloud to safeguard your data.
- A Computer with iTunes: You will need a computer with the latest version of iTunes installed.
- A Compatible IPSW File: This is the firmware file for iOS 9, which you will need to download.
Step-by-Step Guide to Downgrade from iOS 12 to iOS 9
1. Download the iOS 9 IPSW File:
- You need to find a compatible IPSW file for iOS 9. Search online for “iOS 9 IPSW download” and choose a reliable source.
- Note that the IPSW file should be specific to your iPhone or iPad model. Download the file and save it to a location you can easily access.
2. Put Your Device in DFU Mode:
- Connect your iPhone or iPad to your computer using a USB cable.
- Turn off your device completely.
- Press and hold the Sleep/Wake button for 3 seconds.
- While still holding the Sleep/Wake button, press and hold the Home button.
- Continue holding both buttons for 10 seconds.
- Release the Sleep/Wake button but continue holding the Home button for another 5 seconds.
- If successful, your screen will remain black.
3. Use iTunes to Restore Your Device:
- Open iTunes on your computer.
- With your device in DFU mode, iTunes will detect it and offer a restore option.
- Click on the “Restore” button.
- Hold down the Option key on a Mac (or Shift key on a Windows PC) while clicking the “Restore” button.
- Select the iOS 9 IPSW file you downloaded earlier.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the restore process.
4. Wait for the Restore Process to Finish:
- iTunes will now start downloading and installing iOS 9 on your device.
- This process might take some time, so be patient and let it complete.
- Once the restore is finished, your device will reboot and you’ll be greeted by the setup screen.
5. Set Up Your Device:
- Follow the setup prompts to configure your device, including language, Wi-Fi connection, and Apple ID.
- When you reach the data restore step, you can choose to restore from a backup.
Important Notes and Precautions
- Always back up your device before attempting to downgrade.
- Make sure the IPSW file you download is compatible with your iPhone or iPad model.
- You may need to disable “Find My iPhone” before you can downgrade.
- Downgrading to an older iOS version can sometimes cause unexpected issues. If you encounter problems, you may need to restore your device to the latest version of iOS.
- Be aware that downgrading to an older iOS version might limit access to new features and security updates.
Alternatives to Downgrading
If you’re considering downgrading because of performance issues or app compatibility problems, there are other options you could explore:
- Check for Updates: Apple often releases updates to improve performance or fix bugs. Make sure your device is running the latest version of iOS.
- Uninstall Unnecessary Apps: Apps can consume resources and affect performance. Uninstall any apps you don’t use regularly.
- Clear App Cache: Apps store temporary files that can take up space. Clear the cache for apps you use frequently.
- Contact Apple Support: If you’re experiencing major problems, contact Apple Support for help.
Conclusion
Downgrading from iOS 12 to iOS 9 can be a useful solution for some users, but it’s not a decision to be taken lightly. Make sure you understand the risks and weigh the potential benefits before proceeding. With proper preparation and caution, you can successfully downgrade your iPhone or iPad to an older iOS version. Remember, it’s always a good idea to keep your device up-to-date with the latest software for the best security and performance.
FAQs
1. Why would I want to downgrade from iOS 12 to iOS 9?
Downgrading from iOS 12 to iOS 9 is a decision that should be made with careful consideration. You might choose to downgrade if you are experiencing compatibility issues with your current iOS version. Older apps might not function properly on newer iOS versions, and some devices might perform better on earlier software. Additionally, you might be nostalgic for the features or user interface of a previous iOS version. However, it’s important to remember that downgrading can be a complex process and may result in data loss or other unforeseen problems.
Before making the decision to downgrade, weigh the potential benefits against the risks. If you are experiencing significant problems with iOS 12 and believe that iOS 9 might provide a solution, then downgrading might be the right choice. However, if your primary reason is nostalgia, it’s important to consider the potential drawbacks before proceeding.
2. Is downgrading from iOS 12 to iOS 9 possible for all devices?
Not all devices are capable of downgrading to iOS 9. The downgrade process is limited by the specific hardware and software compatibility of your device. Apple typically restricts the availability of older iOS versions to ensure the stability and security of their devices. Older devices are often unable to run newer software, while newer devices are designed to work with the latest operating system updates.
To determine if your device is compatible with iOS 9, you can refer to Apple’s official documentation. You can also research online forums and communities for information about specific device models and their supported iOS versions. It’s crucial to ensure your device is compatible before attempting the downgrade, as attempting to install incompatible software can lead to irreversible damage.
3. What are the risks associated with downgrading from iOS 12 to iOS 9?
Downgrading from iOS 12 to iOS 9 carries several risks that need to be considered before proceeding. Firstly, you may lose data during the process, especially if you haven’t backed up your device recently. Secondly, downgrading to an older iOS version may limit the functionality of some applications and features. Some apps may not be compatible with iOS 9, and certain features might be unavailable.
Moreover, downgrading can be a complex and technically challenging process, requiring a thorough understanding of the steps involved. A single mistake during the downgrade can lead to device damage or permanent data loss. Before attempting the downgrade, it’s essential to weigh these risks against the potential benefits. You should also make sure to back up your device thoroughly and familiarize yourself with the downgrade process to minimize the likelihood of negative consequences.
4. How do I back up my device before downgrading?
Before attempting to downgrade from iOS 12 to iOS 9, it’s crucial to create a full backup of your device to protect your data. You can do this using iCloud or iTunes. To back up your device with iCloud, ensure you have sufficient iCloud storage space, then open Settings > [Your Name] > iCloud > iCloud Backup and tap “Back Up Now.”
For an iTunes backup, connect your device to your computer, open iTunes, and select your device. Click “Back Up Now” under the Backups section. This will create a local backup on your computer. It’s recommended to perform both iCloud and iTunes backups to ensure a complete data preservation.
5. What is the recommended method for downgrading from iOS 12 to iOS 9?
The recommended method for downgrading from iOS 12 to iOS 9 is to use the IPSW file method, which involves manually downloading and installing the iOS 9 firmware. This method requires you to have a compatible device and a computer with iTunes installed. It also involves putting your device into Recovery mode and restoring it using the downloaded iOS 9 IPSW file.
This method can be more complex than other options but offers greater control and flexibility during the downgrade process. It’s essential to carefully follow the instructions and ensure you have the correct IPSW file for your device model.
6. What if I encounter issues during the downgrade process?
If you encounter issues during the downgrade process, it’s important to stay calm and troubleshoot the problem systematically. Check if you have downloaded the correct IPSW file and followed the instructions precisely. If you’re still experiencing problems, you can seek assistance from online forums or communities dedicated to Apple devices.
You can also contact Apple support for further guidance. Remember to be patient and persistent, as troubleshooting can take time. If you’re unsure about any steps, it’s best to consult with an expert to avoid potential damage to your device.
7. Is it possible to upgrade back to iOS 12 after downgrading to iOS 9?
Yes, you can upgrade back to iOS 12 after downgrading to iOS 9. However, you might need to update your device to the latest iOS version available for your device before you can update to iOS 12. This means you might need to update to iOS 10, iOS 11, and then iOS 12 before you can use the latest iOS version.
The process of upgrading back to iOS 12 is similar to the downgrade process. You’ll need to download the iOS 12 IPSW file for your device and use iTunes to restore your device using this file. Remember that upgrading back to iOS 12 may require reinstalling all your apps and restoring your data from a backup.