Apple ends iOS signing for older iPhone and iPad software

Apple stopped signing several older iOS and iPadOS versions for older iPhone and iPad models on July 8, 2026.

TL;DR

• Apple no longer authorizes restores or downgrades to some older software versions for several older iPhones and iPads.
• The change took effect on July 8, 2026, according to 9to5Mac.
• Users of affected devices can no longer install those unsigned versions through Apple’s normal verification process.

Apple stopped signing several older iOS and iPadOS releases for older iPhone and iPad devices on July 8, 2026. When Apple stops signing a software version, the company’s verification servers no longer approve installation of that version during a restore or downgrade.

The change affects users who still use older iPhone and iPad hardware and want to return to an earlier software release. According to 9to5Mac, those users can no longer restore or downgrade to several older iOS versions starting on July 8, 2026.

The source article states that Apple ended signing for several older software versions, but the provided source material does not list the exact iPhone models, iPad models, or software build numbers affected. The reported effect is that older devices covered by the change can no longer install those versions through Apple’s standard signing process.

Related questions

• What does Apple stopping iOS signing mean for iPhone and iPad users?
• Which older iPhone and iPad models are affected by Apple’s July 8, 2026 signing change?
• Can users still downgrade an iPhone or iPad after Apple stops signing a software version?