Apple has officially stopped signing iOS 26.2, meaning iPhone users who updated to the latest version, iOS 26.2.1, can no longer revert to the previous software. It’s a move that’s sparking debate among users who prefer the older interface or experienced issues with the newest update.
Apple Also Ends Support for Older iOS Versions
The move impacts not only iOS 26 but also several older operating systems, including versions of iOS 12, 15, 16, and 18.
- Apple routinely stops signing older iOS versions after releasing updates with security improvements or stability fixes.
- Once a version is no longer signed, downgrading becomes impossible without specialized tools and knowledge.
- The latest action affects iOS 26.2, iOS 12.5.7, iOS 15.8.5, iOS 16.7.12, and iOS 18.7.3.
- iOS 26.2.1, released just last week, provided support for the second-generation AirTag and included bug fixes.
Whenever Apple deems an iOS version stable enough, or rolls out an update with critical security patches, it typically ceases signing earlier iterations. This effectively prevents users from “downgrading” – reverting to a previous version of the operating system. As MacRumors reported today, February 2, 2026, iOS 26.2 is now among those unsupported versions.
For those currently running iOS 26.2.1, which became available on January 26, 2026, the option to revert to iOS 26.2 – or any earlier version – is now off the table. This can be frustrating for users who find bugs or dislike changes in the latest update, but Apple’s practice is generally aimed at maintaining a secure and consistent ecosystem.
The release notes for iOS 26.2.1 indicated support for the AirTag (2nd generation) and addressed several bug fixes. Notably, the update did not list any specific security fixes or Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures (CVEs), which are public identifiers for known security flaws.
Beyond iOS 26.2, Apple has also reportedly stopped signing iOS 12.5.7, iOS 15.8.5, iOS 16.7.12, and iOS 18.7.3. These changes followed the release of updated versions, including iOS 12.5.8 on January 26, 2026, and iOS 15.8.6, iOS 16.7.14, and iOS 18.7.4 on February 2, 2026.
