How to change the OS version from iPadOS 26 to iPadOS 18?

Hi,

Unfortunately, you can’t roll back from iPadOS 26 to iPadOS 18. Apple only allows restoring to versions of iPadOS that are still being signed, and older versions like iPadOS 18 are no longer signed or supported. That means even if you have an iCloud backup from before updating, it won’t let you install an older OS to use it.

The only option is to stay on iPadOS 26, or, if you’re enrolled in the beta program, you can reinstall the latest public release of iPadOS 26 by removing the beta profile. But going all the way back to iPadOS 18 isn’t possible.

If you’re having issues with iPadOS 26, I’d recommend giving feedback to Apple through the Feedback app (if you’re on beta) or Apple’s Feedback page, so they’re aware of the problems.

You have a short period of time to revert to iOS 18.7, as it is still current and is being supported. Go to Settings/General/Software Update and see if you can choose iOS 18 among the options. If not you can download an iOS 18 IPSW; search for it.

I believe iOS 18 is still signed. so he could possibly restore to iOS 18 via "apple devices" but if you don't have any problems with iOS 26 (bugs), it's best to keep iOS 26.

It is still open as of September 16 @ 2:50 AM EDT… I’m updating as of now.