In this guide, we’ll discuss how you can revert your iOS device from a more recent software update to iOS 8.4. Whether you’re experiencing software issues or you simply prefer the features and interface of the older system, we’ll walk you through the necessary steps to downgrade your iOS device.
Understanding the Importance of iOS Updates
Apple is a company that’s always at the forefront of innovation. They’re constantly updating their software and hardware to improve user experience and add new features. With each new update, users are encouraged to download and install the latest version of iOS, the operating system that powers Apple’s mobile devices. While these updates are generally a good thing, sometimes they can cause problems for certain users. Some updates may cause performance issues or compatibility problems with certain apps. As a result, some users may want to go back to a previous version of iOS. In this article, we’ll explore how to go back to iOS 8.4.
Why You Might Want to Downgrade to iOS 8.4
There are several reasons why you might want to go back to iOS 8.4. Perhaps you’ve found that your device is running slower after updating to the latest version of iOS. Or maybe you’ve discovered that some of your favorite apps are no longer compatible with the latest iOS update. Or perhaps you simply prefer the look and feel of iOS 8.4 and want to go back to it. Whatever your reasons, it’s important to understand the risks and challenges involved in downgrading your iOS version.
Key takeaway: While Apple’s iOS updates are generally a good thing, sometimes users may want to downgrade to a previous version such as iOS 8.4 due to performance issues, compatibility problems or preference. However, downgrading can be a time-consuming and complicated process that involves risks and challenges such as potential damage to the device or loss of data. Before attempting to downgrade, users should backup their device, download the iOS 8.4 software, disable Find My iPhone, enter recovery mode, install iOS 8.4 in iTunes and restore the backup.
Risks and Challenges of Downgrading
Before attempting to downgrade your iOS version, it’s important to understand the risks and challenges involved. First and foremost, downgrading your iOS version can be a time-consuming and complicated process. You’ll need to download the iOS 8.4 software and then manually install it on your device. This can be a daunting task for many users and requires some technical knowledge.
In addition, downgrading your iOS version can also be risky. If you don’t follow the instructions carefully, you could end up damaging your device or losing important data. It’s important to backup your device before attempting to downgrade your iOS version, so you can easily restore your data if something goes wrong.
How to Downgrade to iOS 8.4
If you’ve decided that you want to go back to iOS 8.4, there are several steps you’ll need to follow. Here’s a step-by-step guide to downgrading your iOS version:
Step 1: Backup Your Device
Before attempting to downgrade your iOS version, it’s important to backup your device. This will ensure that you don’t lose any important data during the downgrade process. You can backup your device using iTunes or iCloud.
Step 2: Download the iOS 8.4 Software
Once you’ve backed up your device, you’ll need to download the iOS 8.4 software. You can download the software from Apple’s website or through iTunes.
Step 3: Disable Find My iPhone
Before you can install iOS 8.4 on your device, you’ll need to disable Find My iPhone. To do this, go to Settings > iCloud > Find My iPhone and turn off the feature.
Step 4: Connect Your Device to Your Computer
Connect your device to your computer using a USB cable. Make sure that iTunes is open on your computer.
Step 5: Enter Recovery Mode
To enter recovery mode, hold down the Home button and the Power button at the same time. Keep holding both buttons until you see the Apple logo appear on your screen. Then release the Power button, but continue holding the Home button until you see the iTunes logo appear on your screen.
Step 6: Install iOS 8.4
In iTunes, you should see a message that says your device is in recovery mode. Click on the Restore button and then select the iOS 8.4 software that you downloaded in Step 2. iTunes will then install iOS 8.4 on your device.
Step 7: Restore Your Backup
Once iOS 8.4 is installed on your device, you can restore your backup. Simply connect your device to your computer and open iTunes. Select your device and then click on the Restore Backup button. This will restore all of your data and settings to your device.
FAQs for How to Go Back to iOS 8.4
What happens if I don’t like the latest iOS update?
It’s common for users to not like the latest iOS update brought on by some functional or design changes made by Apple. In such a scenario, you can use iTunes to go back to the previous version of iOS. However, keep in mind that Apple only signs the previous version of iOS temporarily, which means you need to act quickly. Besides, older iOS versions may be vulnerable to security issues, so it’s crucial to weigh the pros and cons before reverting to an older iOS system.
Is it possible to go directly back to iOS 8.4 from the latest iOS version?
It is not possible to revert to an older iOS version directly from the latest iOS update. First, make a manual backup of your data, and then, you need to restore your iPhone using an iTunes compatible iOS 8.4 firmware to get rid of the latest iOS version. Additionally, make sure to turn off the Find My iPhone feature before downgrading your phone.
How do I find a compatible iOS 8.4 firmware to downgrade my iPhone?
Before downgrading your iPhone, make sure to get a compatible iOS 8.4 firmware for your device. You can easily find them on dedicated websites or from trusted sources. Make sure to download the proper IPSW file that matches your iPhone’s model number, which can be found in the settings. Once you have the firmware, go to iTunes and manually restore your phone using the firmware.
What happens if I experience issues while downgrading to IOS 8.4, and is there a way to fix it?
While downgrading your iPhone to iOS 8.4, you may encounter some issues, such as a failed restore or an error message. In such an instance, there are several possible solutions. Firstly, check that you downloaded the correct firmware and that it is compatible with your device. If you’re still experiencing issues, try restoring your iPhone using DFU (Device Firmware Update) mode with the right firmware. Additionally, you may need to disable your antivirus program, which can sometimes interfere with the iTunes restore process.
Will I lose data while downgrading to IOS 8.4 from the latest iOS version?
Yes, you will lose data if you don’t have a backup because downgrading your iPhone to iOS 8.4 erases all data on your device. Therefore, it’s crucial to make a manual backup of all your files before proceeding with the downgrade process. You can back up your data using iTunes or iCloud, depending on your preference. Once you’ve completed the downgrade, you’ll be prompted to restore your device with a previous backup.