Locate and change its string value from 13G36 to 10A403 . Tap Save in the top right corner, then tap Done .
Select . You should see iOS 8.4.1 listed. Download the iOS 8.4.1 firmware within the app. Start the Downgrade : Select the downloaded 8.4.1 firmware.
Are you an iPad 2 user who has recently updated to iOS 9.3.5, but now regretting the decision? Perhaps you're experiencing performance issues, compatibility problems, or simply prefer the features and interface of an earlier iOS version, specifically iOS 8.4.1. Whatever the reason, downgrading your iPad 2 from iOS 9.3.5 to 8.4.1 is possible, and we'll walk you through the process in this article.
Once your iPad restarts, its identity will be masked as iOS 6.0. Unlock your iPad and open . Navigate to General > Software Update . downgrade ipad 2 ios 9.3.5 to 8.4.1
Practical checklist (before you start)
A: No. The OTA loophole is unique to the iPad 2 and original iPad Mini (1st gen). iPad 3/4 must stay on 9.3.5 or use coolbooter.
How to Update an Old iPad from iOS 9.3.5 | Expert Q&A - JustAnswer Locate and change its string value from 13G36 to 10A403
. This process is popular because iOS 8.4.1 typically offers better performance on older hardware. Prerequisites Device Status : Your iPad 2 must be running iOS 9.3.5. : You must jailbreak your device first using a tool like Tools Required A computer with Sideloadly Cydia Impactor to install the jailbreak. Filza File Manager , available through Cydia. Method 1: The "OTA Trick" (No SHSH Blobs Needed)
This comprehensive guide breaks down the performance benefits and offers two distinct, tested methods to successfully downgrade your legacy hardware. Why You Should Downgrade to iOS 8.4.1 The final software release for the
This is the magic step. The ramdisk forces the iPad to request the iOS 8.4.1 OTA update directly from Apple’s servers. You should see iOS 8
To modify the necessary system files, you must temporarily jailbreak your device.
This is the dealbreaker for many.
(or 9.3.6 for cellular models). While it’s technically the "latest" version, the hardware—powered by the A5 chip—struggles significantly with iOS 9’s resource demands. Users often describe the experience as "laggy," with apps crashing and the keyboard taking seconds to appear. The Solution: The iOS 8.4.1 "Sweet Spot"
Scroll down and locate the file named SystemVersion.plist . Tap it to open it. Locate the following two keys/strings: ProductVersion (Currently reads: 9.3.5 ) ProductBuildVersion (Currently reads: 13G36 )
Apple continues to sign the iOS 8.4.1 Over-The-Air (OTA) update framework for the iPad 2. This exists because devices updating from older platforms like iOS 6 cannot transition directly to iOS 9.3.5 without visiting iOS 8.4.1 first as a stepping stone. By mimicking this upgrade path, you can safely trigger a permanent, untethered downgrade. Method 1: The No-Computer OTA Plist Method