Apple is no longer signing iOS 18.6 for iPhones. This means users cannot downgrade from iOS 18.6.2 or iOS 18.6.1 installed on their devices to this older version.

Reverting to iOS 18.6 is no longer possible

After releasing a new update and verifying its functionality, Apple typically retires the signatures for older versions. This is a standard practice to encourage users to upgrade to the newer version, which has patched security vulnerabilities. A similar process followed the release of iOS 18.6.2. This update includes important security fixes.

iOS 18.6.1 reactivated blood oxygen tracking on the Apple Watch Series 9, Apple Watch Series 10, and Apple Watch Ultra 2. Apple’s iOS 18.6.2, released shortly thereafter, also included these security fixes.

When a software version is suspended from being signed, it becomes impossible to install that version on an iPhone due to server-side validation checks. This ensures users stay on the most up-to-date and secure software.

Meanwhile, Apple is expected to release the final version of iOS 26 in September. This version, which has been tested with developers and beta testers since June, will offer many new features and improvements for iPhone users.

So, what are your thoughts on this? Which iOS version do you use in your daily life? Feel free to share your thoughts with us in the comments section below.