The release of the iOS 18 beta attracted loads of users, tempting them to update. However, like all other updates, this one also came with unnecessary changes. For instance, your iPhone might not be able to connect with certain devices via Bluetooth, or it may face bug attacks. In such a case, downgrading to iOS 17 or some earlier versions of iOS remains the best course of action.
If you are in the same boat and wondering how to downgrade iOS 17 or earlier versions, we have covered you in this ultimate guide. In it, we will shed light on what unsigned IPSW means and how to install unsigned IPSW file on your iPhone . So, without any further ado, let’s begin exploring!
What is Unsigned IPSW?
IPSW is actually a file extension of Apple’s iPhone mobile operating system. By unsigned, it means that Apple no longer supports that iOS version and users won’t be able to restore or downgrade to that version using iTunes. Wondering why Apple would unsign iOS versions? Apple does this mainly because of security concerns and to tempt users to shift to newer iOS versions with advanced features.
However, there is one thing: new iOS versions come with unpleasant device performance or functionality. To avoid dealing with firmware update errors, experts suggest downgrading to an earlier iOS version or install an unsigned IPSW file.
Is it Possible to Install Unsigned IPSW without SHSH Blobs?
Hear us shouting YES! With certain third-party tools like Tenorshare ReiBoot, you can install unsigned IPSW without SHSH blobs. These tools are particularly designed for iPhone and iPad users, enabling them to resolve iOS-related issues. So, whether it’s an iPhone stuck on the Apple logo screen or just a firmware update bug, you can rely on these tools to help you fix them.
How to Install Unsigned IPSW
Though the most common method is to install unsigned IPSW with SHSH blobs, you can also use third-party platforms. Let’s explore step-by-step guides for both methods in this section.
Install Unsigned IPSW with SHSH Blobs
SHSH blobs are the digital signatures that Apple uses to sign its IPSW firmware files for each iOS device. When a specific version is unsigned, Apple removes the sign from the firmware, so your users won’t be able to downgrade to it. Here is the step-by-step guide for installing an unsigned IPSW with SHSH blobs:
Step 1: Get the Right SHSH Blobs
Connect your iOS device to your computer and launch iTunes. Switch to the Summary icon and copy the ECID after clicking the Serial Number field. Paste it on your Notepad. Repeat the same steps for the Device Identifier and switch to TTS Saver. Paste the ECID into the designated field and select the device type. Now, paste the Device Identifier and hit Submit.
Step 2: Before Downgrading
Ensure you have installed NonceSet 1112 on your PC. Once done, download the iPhone iOS firmware and install futurerestore. For this, you must have at least 9 to 10GB of free space.
Step 3: Install Unsigned IPSW
- Create a folder on your computer and name it futurerestore. Now, unzip your futurerestore file there. Your folder must be like c:/futurerestore. Copy the IPSW and SHSH2 into this folder. You can change file names if you want to write commands easily.
- Launch SHSH2 blobs in your Notepad and locate your generator key string. Enter it into the PhoenixNonce app and hit the Set button to confirm your changes. Remain patient until your iPhone restarts.
- Now, launch the app and ensure you have found the right key string. Don’t launch iTunes. Otherwise, you won’t be able to download the unsigned iOS without iTunes. Now, connect your iPhone to your PC and ensure both devices are connected to the same Wi-Fi network.
- Access the computer’s operating system as an administrator, launch Command Prompt, and enter the command line futurerestore -t my.hsh2 -i signed.ipsw restoreto.ipsw.
- Once entered, hit the Enter icon to initialize the process of downgrading to unsigned iOS. Wait for a few minutes until it’s done.
Note: Users must have a blob file saved if they want to restore when Apple is still signing the version. It’s because once the signs are removed, you can’t restore the firmware.
Install Unsigned IPSW without SHSH Blobs with ReiBoot [No data Loss]
Don’t have SHSHS blobs? Tenorshare ReiBoot has covered you! This amazing platform is designed to resolve 150+ issues with iPhones or iPads with a one-click process. You won’t even require any tech knowledge for this purpose. Here are some of the important functions that ReiBoot performs:
- Downgrade from iOS 18 Beta to iOS 17.
- This supports all iPhone models, including the latest iOS 18 beta and earlier versions.
- Resolve problems such as iPhones not restoring in recovery mode, being stuck on the Apple logo, black screen of death, downgrades or updates getting stuck, and more.
Here is how you can use ReiBoot to install Unsigned IPSW without SHSH Blobs:
° Launch Tenorshare ReiBoot on your computer and connect your iPhone to your computer.
° Hit the Upgrade/Downgrade option on the interface. Select Downgrade in the following window and hit Downgrade again to proceed.
° Now, download the firmware you want to downgrade. Select it from the drop-down menu and hit the download button.
° Once you have downloaded the firmware, select the initiate Downgrade button.
° Wait until the process is completed. Your iPhone will auto-reboot once the iOS is downgraded.
The Bottom Line
Getting stuck with errors after an iOS update has now become a sort of sure thing. This is why most users end up looking for guides on how to downgrade iOS and how to install unsigned IPSW. Though SHSH blobs help you install unsigned IPSW, not all users have them. So, going with Tenorshare ReiBoot remains the best choice. It enables you to downgrade without data loss.
