Core Points - The article discusses the process of downgrading from iOS 26, iPadOS 26, and macOS 26 beta versions back to previous stable versions, emphasizing the importance of data backup before upgrading [1][4][22] Group 1: Downgrade Process - Downgrading requires significant effort and may lead to data loss, unlike upgrading which is straightforward [3][4] - Users must ensure their data is backed up before attempting to downgrade, as the process will restore the device to factory settings [4][8] - For iPhone and iPad, the downgrade process involves connecting the device to a PC or Mac, entering recovery mode, and downloading the appropriate firmware [5][10][12] Group 2: Backup Methods - iPhone and iPad can be backed up using iCloud or by connecting to a computer for a full backup [4][8] - Mac users should utilize Time Machine for backups prior to upgrading to macOS 26 [6] - Apple Watch backups are automatically included in the paired iPhone's backup, but manual backup methods are limited [8][20] Group 3: Downgrade Limitations - Downgrading is only possible while Apple is still signing the older firmware versions, which typically lasts about a month after a new version is released [14][15] - Users are advised to check the signing status of firmware before attempting to downgrade [15] - The article mentions a risky method to modify backup files for downgrading, which is not recommended due to potential compatibility issues [9] Group 4: Special Considerations - The downgrade process for Mac is slightly more complex but manageable with proper guidance [16][19] - Apple Watch downgrades cannot be performed by users and require official service [20][22] - Users are encouraged to consider their ability to complete the downgrade process before upgrading to beta versions [22]

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the process and considerations for downgrading from the beta versions of iOS 26, iPadOS 26, and macOS 26 back to previous stable versions, emphasizing the importance of data backup before upgrading to beta versions [1][2][20]. Group 1: Downgrade Process - Downgrading from beta versions requires significant effort and may result in data loss, as devices will be restored to factory settings [5][12]. - Users must ensure that they have backed up their data before attempting to downgrade, as the downgrade process does not retain any data [8][10]. - For iPhone and iPad, the downgrade process involves connecting the device to a PC or Mac, entering recovery mode, and downloading the appropriate firmware [9][21]. Group 2: Backup Methods - iPhone and iPad can be backed up using either a computer for full backups or iCloud for cloud backups, with the latter typically being enabled by default [13]. - Mac users should utilize "Time Machine" for backing up data before upgrading to macOS 26 [13]. - Apple Watch backups are automatically included in the iPhone backup, and users should ensure their iPhone is backed up to retain Apple Watch data [15]. Group 3: Downgrade Limitations - Downgrading is only possible while Apple is still signing the older firmware versions, which typically lasts for about a month after a new version is released [29][30]. - Users cannot downgrade to a version for which Apple has stopped signing, making it crucial to check the signing status of firmware [32][33]. Group 4: Special Considerations for Devices - The downgrade process for Mac is slightly more complex but manageable for users following the outlined steps [34]. - Apple Watch downgrades cannot be performed by users at home and must be done through official channels, such as visiting an Apple Store [45][46].