How to uninstall iOS 10 and downgrade to iOS 9 on your Apple devices

Cristina Criddle 19 September 2016 • 1:44pm

There's a simple fix if you don't like the new iOS 10 Credit: Apple

Apple's iOS 10 was celebrated as the company's "biggest software release ever", and certainly signals more of a revolution than the new iPhone 7.

The update includes revamped emojis, in-iMessage apps and the controversial removal of the swipe-to-open lock screen.

Since iOS 10's release last week, some users have complained that the software has made their device sluggish, and warned fellow Apple customers not to upgrade.

iOS10 is making my iPhone6 a little slow.. Reminds me of my iPhone4 🙄
— V ✨ (@vxnssx__) September 15, 2016

My phone laggy and charge extra slow after the update! Thanks ios10 . And whats with this water gun , 🔫
💁🏽💁🏽💁🏽💁🏽💁🏽💁🏽
— pppppppp (@0hsnapitspat) September 15, 2016

When you are upgraded to #ios10 😂 pic.twitter.com/yUS1FBalWE
— ham qa (@aidilhamqaaa) September 15, 2016

If you have managed to download the software successfully but are struggling to adjust to the new lock screen or think it has slowed down your device, there is a way to uninstall iOS 10 and return to the older iOS 9.

Revamped iMessage in iOS 10 Credit: Apple

How to downgrade from iOS 10 to iOS 9

David Price, of Macworld, says, "There's a brief window (generally just a few days) after Apple releases a new full version of iOS, during which the company continues to 'sign' (or authorize) the previous version.

"In those few days you can downgrade reasonably easily."

1. Back up all data to either iCloud or iTunes

To ensure you do not lose all your files, contacts and photos it is important to back up all of your data because the downgrade wipes apps and information from the device.

2. Download the iOS "ipsw" file

On your computer go to Documents -> Library -> iTunes.

Find the folder labelled iPad Software Updates or iPhone Software Updates, depending on the device you wish to downgrade.

Failing that, search your computer for ipsw, then select and download the correct file for your device onto your computer.

3. Transferring to your device

To get the iOS 9 installed on your device, plug your iPhone or iPad into the desktop and open the ipsw for your device.

Select device summary in the programme then press Shift or, if you have a Mac, Alt/Option and click "restore".

You will also need to disable the Find My iPhone/iPad feature on the device, if it has been enabled.

4. What if iTunes says I am already running iOS 10?

Put the device in recovery mode. You can do this by shutting down the device and holding down the Home button while you connect it to the cable from your computer.

When the ‘connect to iTunes’ screen is displayed, release the button.

You should then receive a notification from iTunes that your device is in recovery mode.

Then press Shift or Option and click Restore to open the iOS 9 ipsw file, which will install the old software to your device.