Apple released iOS 16.2 to everyone last week and now the company has stopped signing iOS 16.1.2. This means that iPhone users can not downgrade their smartphones from the latest iOS version.
As every new iOS update comes with new features, improvements, and/or security fixes, Apple stops signing older iOS versions after a few days of the public release of the latest update to deliver users a smooth performance experience and protect them from malicious malware or security vulnerabilities.
Furthermore, the tech company also signing older OS versions because of jailbreak tools. Apple is against jailbreaking because it allows users can download apps unapproved by the App Store review team on jailbroken iPhones which increases the chance of malware weakening iOS security and jeopardizing users’ privacy.
Mandating an update to the new version renders jailbreaking tools ineffective as jailbreak of the latest version is not immediately available. This is Apple’s way of ensuring that all compatible devices run on the latest OS version by making it impossible to downgrade from it.
Downgrade from iOS 16.2 to iOS 16.1.2 is no longer possible
Earlier this month, Apple released iOS 16.1.2 which was a minor update that included crash detection optimizations on iPhone 14 and iPhone 14 Pro models, improvements for compatibility with wireless carriers, and security patches.
The new iOS 16.2 is a significant update with new features like the Freeform app for collaboration, external display support for Stage Manager, Emergency SOS via Satellite for iPhone 14, Advanced Data Protection for iCloud, Apple Music Sing, and more. It also includes improvements to Game Center, Home app, Lock Screen, Notes app, AirDrop to Everyone 10 minutes restriction and others.
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