Main points
- Have you ever updated an app on your iPhone or iPad, only to find out that the new version is buggy, crashes constantly, or just doesn’t work as well as the previous one.
- Maybe an older version had a feature you relied on that was removed in a later update.
- If you have a recent Time Machine backup on your Mac, you can potentially restore your iPhone or iPad to a previous state where the app you want to un-update was installed.
Have you ever updated an app on your iPhone or iPad, only to find out that the new version is buggy, crashes constantly, or just doesn’t work as well as the previous one? We’ve all been there! Knowing how to un-update an app on iOS can be a lifesaver in these situations. This guide will walk you through the process of reverting back to an older version of your app, giving you control over your iOS experience.
Understanding App Updates and the iOS Ecosystem
Before diving into the “how-to,” let’s understand the mechanics of app updates in the iOS ecosystem. Apple’s App Store is designed to keep your apps up-to-date with the latest features, security patches, and bug fixes. However, these updates can sometimes introduce unforeseen issues.
Here’s why you might want to un-update an app:
- New features are buggy or don’t work as expected. A new update might introduce glitches, crashes, or unexpected changes that disrupt your workflow.
- The new interface is confusing or less user-friendly. Sometimes, a redesign can make an app less intuitive or harder to navigate.
- The app’s performance has declined. Updates can sometimes lead to slower loading times, increased battery consumption, or general sluggishness.
- You prefer the functionality of an older version. Maybe an older version had a feature you relied on that was removed in a later update.
Method 1: Deleting and Reinstalling the App
This method is the most straightforward way to revert to an older version of an app. Here’s how it works:
1. Delete the app: Locate the app you want to un-update on your Home screen or in your App Library. Tap and hold the app icon until it starts to wiggle. Tap the “X” in the top-left corner of the app icon and confirm the deletion.
2. Reinstall the app: Open the App Store and search for the app you just deleted. Tap the cloud icon with an arrow pointing down to reinstall the app. This will download the latest version available, which might not be the older version you want.
3. Check for older versions: If your desired version is not the latest one, you might need to look for an older version elsewhere. This option is explained in the next section.
Method 2: Finding Older Versions (Limited Availability)
While Apple doesn‘t directly offer a way to choose older app versions through the App Store, there are a few workarounds:
- Use a third-party app store: Some third-party app stores, like Cydia or TutuApp, offer older versions of apps. However, using these stores can be risky, as they might contain malware or violate Apple’s terms of service.
- Download an older IPA file: An IPA file is the installation package for iOS apps. You can find older IPA files online, but be cautious about downloading from unreliable sources. Once you have an IPA file, you can install it using tools like iTunes or a third-party app installer. However, this method is not recommended for most users, as it can compromise your device’s security.
- Check if the developer offers older versions: Some developers might offer older versions of their apps on their websites or through other channels. You can contact the developer directly to inquire about this possibility.
Method 3: Using a Time Machine Backup (For Mac Users)
If you have a recent Time Machine backup on your Mac, you can potentially restore your iPhone or iPad to a previous state where the app you want to un-update was installed. Here’s how:
1. Connect your iPhone or iPad to your Mac: Use a USB cable to connect your device to your Mac.
2. Open Time Machine: Go to “System Preferences” -> “Time Machine” and click “Select Backup Disk.”
3. Choose a backup: Select a backup date that predates the app update you want to revert.
4. Restore your device: Click “Restore” and follow the on-screen instructions. This will restore your device to the state it was in at the chosen backup date.
Important Note: This method will erase all data on your device, so make sure you have a recent backup before proceeding.
Method 4: Using an iOS Backup (For iOS Users)
If you have a recent iOS backup, you can use it to restore your device to a state where the app you want to un-update was installed.
1. Open Settings on your iPhone or iPad: Go to “Settings” -> “General” -> “Transfer or Reset iPhone/iPad.”
2. Choose “Restore from Backup”: Select “Restore from Backup” and choose a backup date that predates the app update you want to revert.
3. Follow the instructions: Follow the prompts to restore your device from the backup.
Important Note: This method will erase all data on your device, so make sure you have a recent backup before proceeding.
Method 5: Contacting the App Developer
If you’re unable to revert to an older version of the app using the methods above, you can contact the app developer directly. They might be able to help you resolve the issue or provide you with an older version of the app.
Moving Forward: Preventing Future App Update Issues
Here are some tips to help you avoid app update issues in the future:
- Read reviews before updating: Check out the app reviews in the App Store to see if other users have reported any issues with the latest update.
- Update apps in batches: Instead of updating all your apps at once, update a few at a time to see if any issues arise.
- Back up your device regularly: This will ensure that you have a recent backup to restore from if needed.
- Use a beta testing program: If you’re comfortable with potential instability, you can join a developer’s beta testing program to try out new features and provide feedback before they are released to the public.
Final Thoughts: Taking Control of Your iOS Experience
Knowing how to un-update an app on iOS gives you more control over your device and helps you avoid frustrating situations where updates cause problems. While the process can be tricky, the methods outlined above offer a range of options to revert back to an older app version.
Information You Need to Know
Q: Can I un-update an app without deleting it?
A: Unfortunately, no. There is no way to directly un-update an app on iOS without deleting it. You can only install the latest version available through the App Store.
Q: Are third-party app stores safe?
A: Using third-party app stores can be risky, as they might contain malware or violate Apple‘s terms of service. It’s generally recommended to stick to the official App Store for downloading apps.
Q: What should I do if I can’t find an older version of the app?
A: If you can’t find an older version of the app, you can try contacting the developer or waiting for a future update that addresses the issues you’re experiencing.
Q: Can I un-update system apps on iOS?
A: No, you cannot un-update system apps on iOS. These apps are essential for the operation of your device and cannot be removed or downgraded.
Q: Is there a way to prevent apps from automatically updating?
A: Yes, you can disable automatic app updates in your iOS settings. Go to “Settings” -> “App Store” and turn off the “App Updates” toggle. However, this means you’ll have to manually update your apps whenever a new version is available.