Apple has effectively blocked downgrades to iOS 26.2 by ceasing to sign the version following the launch of iOS 26.2.1 last week. Users currently on the latest update will no longer have the option to revert to earlier system versions. This move comes as part of Apple's standard practice after releasing updates with significant security measures.
In addition to halting the signing of iOS 26.2, Apple also stopped signing iOS 12.5.7, iOS 15.8.5, iOS 16.7.12, and iOS 18.7.3. These actions followed the rollout of newer updates, including iOS 12.5.8 and iOS 15.8.6. The release notes for iOS 26.2.1 indicated support for AirTag (2nd generation) and included various bug fixes, but did not specify any security vulnerabilities addressed in that update.