Apple recently released iOS 26.2.1 and as it traditionally does, it has now stopped signing iOS 26.2, making downgrading to that version of iOS no longer possible. This means that once you’ve installed iOS 26.2.1 you can only look forward, as there is no going back.
iOS 26.2.1 was released last week. The update brought support for the second-generation AirTag that Apple unveiled last.
The update, along with the watchOS 26.2.1 update enables Precision Finding for the new AirTag 2 on the Apple Watch Series 9 and later and the Apple Watch Ultra 2 and later. Prior to now, Precision Finding for the AirTag has been limited to the iPhone.
The updates also includes unspecified bug fixes, said Apple release notes.
Apple also released iOS 18.7.4, iOS 16.7.13, iOS 15.8.6, and iOS 12.5.8 for older iPhones unable to run iOS 26.
The iOS 26.2.1 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.
