Apple Blocks iOS 16.2 Downgrades After iOS 16.3 Release for iPhone Users

Teejay Boris, Tech Times 01 February 2023, 11:02 pm

Apple now blocks iOS 16.2 downgrades for iPhone and iPad users, as the renowned tech giant no longer signs the previous software update.

The iPhone maker made this move following the debut of the iOS 16.3 update, which brings new features and more.

(Photo : Justin Sullivan/Getty Images)
A customer inspects the new Apple iPhone 8 at an Apple Store on September 22, 2017 in San Francisco, California. The new Apple iPhone 8 and 8 Plus, as well as the updated Apple Watch and Apple TV, went on sale today.

Apple Blocks iOS 16.2 Downgrades for iPhone Users

If you have updated your iPhone or iPad to the new iOS 16.3, you may no longer install the previous iOS 16.2 version.

9to5 Mac notes in its report that Apple has already ceased signing the iOS 16.2 update. And as such, devices with the latest version could no longer install this version.

It is worth noting that it has been a month since Apple rolled out iOS 16.2 to iPhone users, introducing new features, such as Apple Music Sing and the new Freeform app. Not to mention that it also brought encryption capabilities to iCloud users.

But on January 23, the Cupertino-based tech giant went on to dish out the new iOS 16.3. And shortly after its release to iPhones and iPads, Apple blocked downgrades to version 16.2.

Why Did Apple Stop Signing iOS 16.2?

Apple blocking iOS downgrades is not entirely new at all. In fact, Mac Rumors says that Apple constantly does this to encourage iPhone and iPad users to keep their devices up to date.

After all, the latest release typically comes with bugs and security fixes, besides new features.

Are iPhone Users Stuck with iOS 16.3?

While iPhone and iPad owners can no longer downgrade to iOS 16.2, it does not necessarily mean they are stuck with iOS 16.3.

(Photo : Justin Sullivan/Getty Images)
The new iPhone X is displayed during an Apple special event at the Steve Jobs Theatre on the Apple Park campus on September 12, 2017 in Cupertino, California. Apple held their first special event at the new Apple Park campus where they announced the new iPhone 8, iPhone X and the Apple Watch Series 3.

If you are grappling with annoying bugs in the latest update, or simply prefer the older version for its features, or the lack thereof, you may still do so.

Apple still signs iOS 15.7.3. But doing so will require you to downgrade using either a PC or Mac.

You may also opt to wait for the next iOS update, which should not take long to start rolling out.

iOS 16.3 Release: Here are the new iPhone Features

Is the latest Apple iOS 16.3 really worth sticking with?

The latest update not only smashes bugs and security issues but also brings new features.

The new version introduces security keys to Apple ID, rather than exclusively using two-factor authentication, CNET reports.

On top of that, iPhone users could now trigger Emergency SOS via satellite using "Call with Hold and Release" by holding the side button and volume button, and releasing them after a countdown.