Can I Downgrade iPad 3 (CDMA)?

iPad 3 (CDMA) (iPad3,2) - Front view

iPad 3 (CDMA)

iPad3,2

A1403
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Downgrade is Possible

Downgrade to iPadOS 9.3.5 is Currently Supported

Apple is currently signing multiple iPadOS versions simultaneously. This temporary signing window overlap allows you to restore your iPad 3 (CDMA) to the older build(s) listed below using a computer without encountering verification errors.

iPadOS 9.3.5 13G36

August 25, 2016

Downgrade Target
Firmware History for iPad 3 (CDMA)
iPadOS 9.3.6 13G37

July 22, 2019

Signed
iPadOS 9.3.5 13G36

August 25, 2016

Signed
iPadOS 9.3.4 13G35

August 4, 2016

Unsigned
iPadOS 9.3.3 13G34

July 18, 2016

Unsigned
iPadOS 9.3.2 13F69

May 16, 2016

Unsigned
iPadOS 9.3.1 13E238

March 31, 2016

Unsigned
iPadOS 9.3 13E237

March 28, 2016

Unsigned
iPadOS 9.3 13E233

March 21, 2016

Unsigned
Frequently Asked Questions

Can I downgrade from an iPadOS Beta on iPad 3 (CDMA)?

Yes. If your iPad 3 (CDMA) is running an iPadOS Beta, you can always restore back to the latest signed public release using Recovery Mode in Finder (Mac) or iTunes / Apple Devices (Windows).

Can I downgrade to the iPadOS version iPad 3 (CDMA) originally shipped with?

No. Apple permanently closes the signing window for older releases. Even though iPad 3 (CDMA) originally launched with an earlier version, Apple servers will no longer authenticate that installation.

What can I do if I cannot downgrade iPad 3 (CDMA) but experience battery or performance bugs?

You can perform a clean restore to the latest signed firmware using a computer to eliminate software glitches and corrupted cache, or await the next minor point update from Apple that includes targeted bug fixes.

Can I downgrade iPad 3 (CDMA) if the signing window has closed?

No. Apple servers reject restore verifications for unsigned builds (returning iTunes Error 3194). Unsigned firmware cannot be installed on standard Apple devices.

Will restoring or downgrading iPad 3 (CDMA) erase data?

Yes. Flashing an IPSW firmware file requires a restore that wipes on-device storage. Ensure your personal data is backed up to iCloud before proceeding.