Apple recently released iOS 18.6.2, and as usual, it has now stopped signing iOS 18.6.1, making downgrading to that version of iOS no longer possible.
Apple’s iOS 18.6.1 update re-enabled blood oxygen monitoring in the United States for the Apple Watch Series 9, Apple Watch Series 10, and Apple Watch Ultra 2 running watchOS 11.6.1. Meanwhile, iOS 18.6.2 fixes a security vulnerability that is known to have been actively exploited in the wild.
The iOS 18.6.2 software can be downloaded on compatible devices over the air by going to “Settings” -> “General” -> “Software Update.”
While falling back to an older iOS version is often used by users who jailbreak their iPhones, it can also be helpful for users who experience significant bugs after upgrading to the latest version of iOS.
By preventing users from downgrading their devices to older versions of iOS, Apple ensures that the devices are kept up to date with the newest security improvements.