This happens every year: Apple publishes the first beta version of a next software update, and iPhone owners rush to install it. As usual, the main problems are overheating, the applications that break, the batteries flowing faster than normal and a general buggy experience.
After a few days, many people are starting to regret having installed the latest beta version, and they want to return to a more stable experience. Fortunately, with iOS 26, it is possible to return to iOS 18.5. Or, if you are really in beta, you can go to the beta iOS 18.6 version.
Here’s how to uninstall the beta version of iOS 26, and why you should be careful before downgrading your iPhone to the previous software version.
Before downgrade, read this
There are several reasons why you may want to stay on iOS 26 beta. The most obvious is that a new construction is fast approaching. So hang on; Things will probably be better soon. However, there are two other things that you need to be aware before uninstalling iOS 26 beta.
Apple Watch compatibility: If, alongside iOS 26, you have installed Watchos 26, you will not be able to associate your Apple Watch with your iPhone until later this fall. Indeed, Apple does not let users go from a beta version to a stable version of Watchos. Therefore, if you have also installed Watchos 26, you must stay on iOS 26.
Backup Whatsapp: Another reason to do so is the possibility of losing a WhatsApp backup. After all, the application will try to restore the last backup compatible with iOS 18.5. If you don’t want to lose part of your cat history, it is better to stick to iOS 26.
If none of these problems applies to you or if you are tired of iOS 26, continue to read.
Say goodbye to iOS 26 beta
To uninstall the iOS 26 beta, you will need to connect your iPhone to a computer. For Mac devices, open Finder to discover your iPhone. You will need to use the Apple Devices application if you are under Windows. After that, follow the steps below:
- On your iPhone, press the volume up button quickly. Quickly press and release the Down volume button. Then press and hold the side button until you see the recovery mode screen.
- On the computer, press to restore the iPhone in its factory settings by choosing “Restore”.
- Once finished, log in with your Apple account.
- When your computer indicates that your iPhone has been restored, choose the iOS backup that you created before installing the beta iOS version.
- Once the process is completed, restart the iOS device and follow the instructions on the screen to recover all your data.
You are now back at iOS 18.5. Apple plans to publish a public beta version of iOS 26 next month. Below, we have a guide highlighting the most important features of the update.
