How to extract IPSW files from an iOS beta DMG on Windows

Updated over a week ago

By

Here's a short guide on extracting the IPSW firmware image from Apple's iOS beta DMG archive. If you're a Windows user and you'd like to update to iOS beta, this is an essential step.

Registered developers can download iOS firmware files from Apple's Developer Centre. These files are typically provided as IPSW files, but are wrapped up inside DMG files. There's a different install for each compatible device, so make sure your download matches the correct install for your device.

Open DMG Extractor and select the iOS Beta DMG file you want to extract
Click "Open" on the top-left Menu icon.

DMG Extractor opening an iOS beta DMG
Extract the IPSW restore file inside the DMG file of iOS beta
You just want the IPSW restore file so on the Extract button menu click "Selected files to…".

DMG Extractor's "Extract" / "Select files to" menu with iOS firmware

When extracting a progress bar will show until the extraction process is completed.

DMG Extractor pulling files out of an iOS beta
Your IPSW firmware restore file should be successfully extracted and ready for the beta update.

DMG Extractor having extracted an iOS IPSW file

You can read more on updating to an iOS beta in our guide. Make sure you have a clear understanding of the risks of running iOS beta -- and create a backup -- before starting.

Check out a handy video with the above instructions: