iOS updates add new features and security patches, but sometimes users need to remove them. Removing iOS updates can free up storage space and resolve installation issues that prevent the update from completing properly.
To delete an iOS update, users can go to Settings > General > iPhone Storage, locate the update file, and tap Delete Update. This simple process removes the downloaded update file while keeping the current iOS version intact. Users can always download the update again later if needed.
The ability to remove iOS updates gives users control over their device’s storage and update schedule. This feature proves useful when dealing with problematic updates or when needing to free up space quickly.
How To Uninstall iOS Updates: A Step-by-Step Guide
Sometimes after updating your iPhone or iPad to a new iOS version, you may experience bugs, performance issues, or compatibility problems. If you want to uninstall or remove an iOS update, here’s a clear, step-by-step guide on what you can do.
Important Notes Before You Begin
- You cannot fully uninstall an iOS update once installed without restoring your device.
- Removing a downloaded but not yet installed update is possible.
- Downgrading to an older iOS version is only possible if Apple is still signing that version.
- Backing up your data before any major changes is crucial to avoid data loss.
Step 1: Delete a Downloaded but Not Installed iOS Update
If your device has downloaded the update but you haven’t installed it yet, you can delete the update to prevent installation.
- Open Settings on your iPhone or iPad.
- Tap General.
- Tap iPhone Storage (or iPad Storage).
- Scroll down to find the iOS update file (usually named like “iOS 17.0”).
- Tap the update.
- Tap Delete Update.
- Confirm deletion.
This will remove the downloaded update and free up space.
Step 2: Downgrade iOS by Restoring to a Previous Version (Advanced)
If you’ve already installed the update and want to uninstall it, the only official way is to restore your iPhone to an earlier iOS version. This method requires:
- A computer with the latest version of Finder (macOS Catalina or later) or iTunes (Windows or older macOS).
- The IPSW firmware file for the iOS version you want to downgrade to.
- Apple still signing that iOS version (check sites like ipsw.me).
Warning: This process erases your device, so back up your data first.
Steps:
- Download the IPSW file for the iOS version you want.
- Connect your iPhone/iPad to your computer.
- Put your device into Recovery Mode or DFU Mode:
- For most iPhones: Press and quickly release Volume Up, then Volume Down, then hold the Side button until recovery screen appears.
- On your computer, open Finder or iTunes.
- When prompted, hold the Option key (Mac) or Shift key (Windows) and click Restore iPhone.
- Select the downloaded IPSW file.
- Confirm and wait for the restore process to complete.
Step 3: Prevent Automatic iOS Updates
To avoid automatic downloads or installations of iOS updates in the future:
- Open Settings.
- Tap General > Software Update.
- Tap Automatic Updates.
- Toggle off Download iOS Updates and Install iOS Updates.
Additional Tips
- Keep your device backed up regularly via iCloud or computer.
- Check Apple’s signing status before downgrading — if Apple stops signing an iOS version, you cannot install it.
- Be cautious with third-party tools promising to uninstall or downgrade iOS; use reputable software only.
Summary Table
| Action | Steps | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Delete downloaded update | Settings > General > iPhone Storage > Delete Update | Removes update file, no install |
| Downgrade iOS version | Restore via IPSW file + Recovery Mode | Erases device, only if Apple signs older iOS |
| Disable automatic updates | Settings > General > Software Update > Automatic Updates | Prevents future auto downloads |
Key Takeaways
- iOS updates can be removed through the iPhone Storage settings menu
- Deleting an update frees up device storage without affecting the current iOS version
- Users maintain the option to download and install updates again at any time
Uninstallation Process and Considerations
Removing iOS updates requires careful preparation, precise execution, and proper verification steps to maintain device functionality. A systematic approach helps prevent data loss and ensures a smooth transition to the desired iOS version.
Assessing Impact and Preparations
Essential Pre-Uninstallation Steps:
- Create a full device backup using iTunes or iCloud
- Check available storage space (minimum 2GB recommended)
- Verify battery level is above 50% or connect to power
- Document current settings and app configurations
Users must verify that their apps will remain compatible with the previous iOS version. Many apps require specific iOS versions to function correctly.
The backup process protects against potential data loss during the uninstallation. Users should create both iCloud and local backups for redundancy.
Executing the Uninstallation
Method 1: Delete Pending Updates
- Open Settings
- Navigate to General > iPhone Storage
- Locate the iOS update file
- Tap “Delete Update” and confirm
Method 2: System Rollback
- Connect iPhone to computer
- Enter Recovery Mode
- Select “Restore iPhone” in iTunes
- Choose archived backup when prompted
Each method serves different purposes. Deleting pending updates prevents installation, while system rollback removes the current version entirely.
Post-Uninstallation Steps
Verification Checklist:
- Test core device functions
- Confirm app functionality
- Check network connections
- Restore personal settings
Users should monitor device performance for 24-48 hours after the uninstallation. Any issues typically appear within this timeframe.
Report persistent problems to Apple Support. They can provide specific guidance if unexpected behavior occurs after the uninstallation.
Third-party apps may need reinstallation or reconfiguration. Users should keep app login credentials accessible during this process.
Frequently Asked Questions
iOS updates sometimes require removal for various reasons, from storage management to reverting problematic installations. Users can manage updates through device settings or utilize developer tools.
How can one remove the iOS 18 beta from their device?
To remove the iOS 18 beta, users must delete the beta profile from Settings > General > VPN & Device Management. After removing the profile, the device can be restored to the latest public iOS version through Settings > General > Software Update.
Is it possible to revert to a previous version of iOS after an update?
Users can downgrade to a previous iOS version only while Apple still signs that version. The process requires downloading the specific iOS version’s IPSW file and using iTunes or Finder to restore the device.
A backup from the previous iOS version must exist to restore data after downgrading.
What is the process for deleting an iOS 17 software update?
Go to Settings > General > iPhone Storage. Locate the iOS 17 update file in the storage list. Tap the update file and select “Delete Update” to remove it from the device.
How can I uninstall a developer update on iOS?
Remove the developer beta profile from Settings > General > VPN & Device Management. Delete the update file from iPhone Storage. The device will stop receiving developer updates.
Why am I unable to delete the iOS update from my storage?
System protection measures might prevent update deletion. Restart the device and try again. Check available storage space, as insufficient space can block system operations.
Can an iOS update be uninstalled on an iPhone 6?
iPhone 6 users can delete downloaded updates through Settings > General > iPhone Storage. They cannot install newer iOS versions due to device compatibility limits.
The device must remain on its last supported iOS version for optimal performance.
