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Specifically, my backup is for 10.1 but the existing iOS on the phone is 10.0.2. When I plug into iTunes, it does not even show my backup from the "Restore Backup" option.

While I would prefer to have the full backup, the firmware is the most important to me. Does anyone know if there is a way to do this?

techraf
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sdenning
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1 Answers1

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Backup and restore doesn't change firmware, only user data. That is how iTunes is designed.

Same with the regression, backups do not go backwards. Only forwards. You can restore a backup from an older version to a newer version of iOS.

Best case, you export the data to a computer or online service and find a way to jailbreak or buy a device with the older OS. Then you could import the data as opposed to the backup.

Also see:

Community
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bmike
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  • Thanks, i know the restore doesn't allow for past ioS versions, but I was wondering if since my backup is from 10.1 and the phone i am trying to restore to is 10.0.2, is there a way for the .0.2 phone restore the 10.1 backup rather than the current update of 10.2?

    This could be a stupid question, but per your comment, I'm assuming since the backup version was newer than the current ios itunes did not recognize it as a compatible option to restore. With the "OPT" + Restore, it allows for .ipa files, if apple still allows sign in. Is there no way round about that with

     – sdenning Jan 21 '17 at 05:44
  • with the "OPT" + Restore, I can choose .ipa files, but apple no longer permits predated versions prior to 10.2. I was wondering if since the backup has the pre-existing 10.1 firmware, if there was a roundabout way to install that on the 10.0.2 phone (as technically it is a newer version than the one the phone currently has). – sdenning Jan 21 '17 at 05:46
  • You are correct @sdenning , if you didn't restore that older version and cache the signing keys for your specific device on iTunes and didn't upgrade a restore to same old iOS works usually. Once you upgrade, those signing keys are discarded by design. – bmike Jan 21 '17 at 12:42