Can I Downgrade iPad 4 (GSM)?

iPad 4 (GSM) (iPad3,5) - Front view

iPad 4 (GSM)

iPad3,5

A1459
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Downgrade is Possible

Downgrade to iPadOS 10.3.3 is Currently Supported

Apple is currently signing multiple iPadOS versions simultaneously. This temporary signing window overlap allows you to restore your iPad 4 (GSM) to the older build(s) listed below using a computer without encountering verification errors.

iPadOS 10.3.3 14G60

July 19, 2017

Downgrade Target
Firmware History for iPad 4 (GSM)
iPadOS 10.3.4 14G61

July 22, 2019

Signed
iPadOS 10.3.3 14G60

July 19, 2017

Signed
iPadOS 10.3.2 14F89

May 15, 2017

Unsigned
iPadOS 10.3.1 14E304

April 3, 2017

Unsigned
iPadOS 10.3 14E277

March 27, 2017

Unsigned
iPadOS 10.2.1 14D27

January 23, 2017

Unsigned
iPadOS 10.2 14C92

December 12, 2016

Unsigned
iPadOS 10.1.1 14B150

November 9, 2016

Unsigned
Frequently Asked Questions

Can I downgrade from an iPadOS Beta on iPad 4 (GSM)?

Yes. If your iPad 4 (GSM) 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 4 (GSM) originally shipped with?

No. Apple permanently closes the signing window for older releases. Even though iPad 4 (GSM) originally launched with an earlier version, Apple servers will no longer authenticate that installation.

What can I do if I cannot downgrade iPad 4 (GSM) 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 4 (GSM) 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 4 (GSM) 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.