Can I Downgrade iPhone 3GS?

iPhone 3GS (iPhone2,1) - Front view

iPhone 3GS

iPhone2,1

A1325
A1303
View Firmware Signing Status Check Other Device
Downgrade is Possible

Downgrade to iOS 4.1 is Currently Supported

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

iOS 4.1 8B117

September 3, 2010

Downgrade Target
Firmware History for iPhone 3GS
iOS 6.1.6 10B500

February 21, 2014

Signed
iOS 6.1.3 10B329

March 13, 2013

Unsigned
iOS 6.1.2 10B146

February 16, 2013

Unsigned
iOS 6.1 10B141

January 24, 2013

Unsigned
iOS 6.0.1 10A523

October 29, 2012

Unsigned
iOS 6.0 10A403

September 14, 2012

Unsigned
iOS 5.1.1 9B206

April 27, 2012

Unsigned
iOS 5.1 9B176

February 29, 2012

Unsigned
Frequently Asked Questions

Can I downgrade from an iOS Beta on iPhone 3GS?

Yes. If your iPhone 3GS is running an iOS 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 iOS version iPhone 3GS originally shipped with?

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

What can I do if I cannot downgrade iPhone 3GS 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 iPhone 3GS 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 iPhone 3GS 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.