Can I Downgrade iPod touch 3?

iPod touch 3 (iPod3,1) - Front view

iPod touch 3

iPod3,1

A1318
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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 iPod touch 3 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 iPod touch 3
iOS 5.1.1 9B206

April 27, 2012

Signed
iOS 5.1 9B176

February 29, 2012

Unsigned
iOS 5.0.1 9A405

November 8, 2011

Unsigned
iOS 5.0 9A334

October 7, 2011

Unsigned
iOS 4.3.5 8L1

July 21, 2011

Unsigned
iOS 4.3.4 8K2

July 14, 2011

Unsigned
iOS 4.3.3 8J2

May 2, 2011

Unsigned
iOS 4.3.2 8H7

April 12, 2011

Unsigned
Frequently Asked Questions

Can I downgrade from an iOS Beta on iPod touch 3?

Yes. If your iPod touch 3 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 iPod touch 3 originally shipped with?

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

What can I do if I cannot downgrade iPod touch 3 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 iPod touch 3 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 iPod touch 3 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.