Why We Keep Jailbreaking iPhones Using Redsn0w, JailbreakMe, Or Pwnage
By Austin Erickson on January 15, 2011, 6:55 am
Never before has it been easier to unlock or jailbreak an iPhone. there are several exploits in existence, Redsn0w, JailbreakMe, and pwnage, just to name a few, but some people have asked about the exact reason a person would want to take the risk, and there are a few. Here are a few arguments on both sides of the fence to help you decide if a jailbreak is right for your uses.
AT&T Network Problems Large Incentive
The biggest problem with the iPhone is AT&T. AT&T has exclusive rights over the iPhone until at least 2012, and with all of the network’s problems — mostly related to its tendency to drop calls — many are justifiably wary of purchasing a phone tied to a problematic network. But the latest jailbreak gives users access to T-Mobile’s GSM network, which works overseas and may be more robust in your area. Apple’s legit App Store has many cool offerings, but jailbroken iPhones have a wide array of banned creative and quirky apps. Access to Cydia — the hub of “illegitimate” apps — is a huge motivation for jailbreaking your iPhone.
It’s Easy, And Reversible…Excepting The Voided Warranty
One of the best parts about jailbreakme is how quick and easy it is to open up your iPhone. If you’re scared of the consequences of jailbreaking your iPhone — or simply don’t like the experience. Most Jailbreaks are fully reversible, just do an iTunes restoration. FaceTime video chat is a nifty new feature of the iPhone 4, but it only works over a Wi-Fi network, which may be difficult to find in many situations. Jailbreaking the iPhone 4 allows for FaceTime video chat over a 3G connection. Video is less than perfect, but it does work.
Here’s Why Not To Jailbreak
As with any tampering of your iPhone, you run the risk of experiencing “bricking.” Bricking renders your phone unusable and requires a complete wipe and restore to make it functional again. Jailbreaking voids your phone’s warranty. Without a valid warranty, Apple will not cover any damages or other malfunctions related to your phone.MacRumors discovered a flaw in the jailbreaking process that allows hackers to remotely plant malware onto a user’s device. The flaw is located in the iOS PDF viewer. So, if you spend a lot of money on the internet, or access your bank accounts from your iPhone, be forewarned.
