Apple recently released iOS 26.4.1 and as it traditionally does, it has now stopped signing iOS 26.4, making downgrading to that version of iOS no longer possible. This means that once you’ve installed iOS 26.4.1, there is no going back.
iOS 26.4.1 was released last week. The update brought the following new features.
An Apple Developer Forums thread indicating that the update fixes an iOS 26.4 bug that affected iCloud syncing in some apps.
Meanwhile, an enterprise-focused Apple support document indicates that Stolen Device Protection will be automatically enabled on iPhones that update from iOS 26.4 to iOS 26.4.1. This likely applies to devices that are managed by a workplace/organization, as the iOS 26.4 already enabled the feature by default for other users.
Introduced in iOS 17.3, Stolen Device Protection increases security of iPhone and Apple ID by requiring Face ID or Touch ID with no passcode fallback to perform certain actions.
With the feature turned on, performing actions like using passwords or passkeys, turning off Lost Mode, erasing an iPhone, and other security-related actions on an iPhone will require biometric authentication – the passcode will not work when away from familiar locations.
For situations where someone tries to change your Apple ID password, update Apple ID security info, change a passcode or Touch ID and Face ID settings, or turn off Find My or Stolen Device protection, the one-hour security delay will activate when away from familiar locations, like home or work, requiring a second biometric authentication.
The iOS 26.4.1 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.
