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Did you install the iOS 26 beta to try out the new features, but now your iPhone isn't running smoothly? No problem. If you want to go back to the stable iOS 18 version, you can do so – even without specialized developer knowledge. Just make sure you follow the process exactly and keep a few things in mind beforehand. This guide will show you step by step how to remove the iOS 26 beta and reinstall iOS 18.
Beta versions like iOS 26 are designed to be tested before the official release. They contain new features, but also many bugs. Crashes, battery problems, and non-functioning apps are normal. If you want to use the system on a daily basis, this can be frustrating. The good news: You can restore your device to iOS 18. If you made a backup before installation, you can also restore the original state. However, without a backup, you will lose your current data.
- An additional note: If you also have watchOS 26 installed on your Apple Watch, the watch will no longer pair with your iPhone after the downgrade. watchOS cannot be manually reset. In this case, you'll need to send the watch to Apple to revert to an older watchOS version.
Preparation: Backup and secure data
Before you begin the downgrade, you should create a backup of your data. If you already created a backup on iOS 18 before updating to iOS 26 Beta, you can use it later to restore your device to its previous state. Without a backup, you can delete iOS 26 Beta, but your current data will be lost.
Enable recovery mode
You'll need a Mac or Windows PC with the latest macOS Finder or iTunes. You'll also need a Lightning or USB-C cable to connect your iPhone or iPad.
- Open Finder on Mac or iTunes on Windows.
- Connect your device to the computer.
- Put the device into recovery mode. This works differently depending on the model:
- iPhone 11 or later: Briefly press the Volume Up button, then briefly press the Volume Down button, then press and hold the Side button until the recovery screen appears.
- iPads with Face ID: Briefly press the Volume Up button, then briefly press the Volume Down button, then hold down the Top button until the device restarts and the recovery screen appears.
Delete iOS 26 beta and install iOS 18
Once the device is in recovery mode, a message will appear on your computer asking if you want to restore or update your device.
- Select "Restore." This will erase your device and install the currently available public version of iOS—in this case, iOS 18.
- The process will take a few minutes. Leave the device connected in the meantime.
Restore iOS 18 backup
After restoring, you can set up your device again or load an old backup. If you have an iCloud or local backup of iOS 18, select the appropriate option in the setup assistant. If you don't have a backup, you'll need to set up your iPhone as a new device. You'll get iOS 18, but without your old data.
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How to get back to iOS 18 without errors
Switching from iOS 26 beta back to iOS 18 is doable if you know what you're doing. It's important to have a backup so you don't lose your data. With proper preparation and a little patience, you can get rid of the beta version and use a stable iOS again. If you plan to test betas in the future, always create a full backup beforehand. This way, you can always revert back if you encounter any problems – without losing data and without stress. Looking for accessories? Our Amazon Storefront is your destination for high-quality products, including those for HomeKit! (Image: Shutterstock / Thaspol Sangsee)
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