Users who have updated their iPhones to iOS 17 are unable to revert back to iOS 16 as Apple has stopped distributing iOS 16.6.1. Though some users have expressed their concerns, it is important to note that Apple has consistently prohibited users from downgrading to earlier iOS versions.
What you should be aware of:
- Users who have updated to iOS 17 are unable to revert back to iOS 16.
- Apple stopped the release of iOS 16.6.1, blocking users from downgrading the system.
Apple removed iOS versions 16.6.1, the standard version of iOS 17, and iOS 17.0.1.

Apple has stopped distributing iOS 16.6.1 along with iOS 17 and iOS 17.0.1. They now only offer iOS 17.0.2 and iOS 17.0.3 to prevent ecosystem fragmentation.
iOS 16.6.1 is no longer being signed by Apple.
That means downgrading or restoring to iOS 16.6.1 via iTunes or Finder is no longer possible.#iOS1661 pic.twitter.com/665T0JfiFg— iSpeedtestOS (@iSpeedtestOS) October 5, 2023
Apple has stopped signing iOS 16.6.1, making it impossible to downgrade or restore to that version using iTunes or Finder.
Apple released iOS 17.0.3 to address the overheating issue on iPhone 15 Pro and 15 Pro Max, aiming to enhance performance on other models as well by optimizing problematic applications.
Apple recently launched iPadOS 17.0.3, which fixes a serious security flaw that could be exploited by attackers to gain unauthorized access. It is crucial for users to update their devices promptly due to the known risk posed by this breach.