Many people have likely heard the term jailbroken used in a sentence, but do not know what it means. Jailbreaking refers to the process of removing restrictions from a device such as an iPhone, iPad or iPod touch in order to install unauthorized apps, or “tweaks”, that weren’t approved by Apple. Doing so opens up a whole new world to the user by allowing them to do things like customize their device’s appearance, download free ringtones or access features intended for more advanced smartphones.
What is the Difference Between Jailbreaking and Rooting?
Since iPhone OS 3.0, Apple has required that all applications be digitally signed with a certificate before they can be installed on an iOS device. The developer’s certificate used to install these apps is linked to specific hardware (identified by its unique “UDID”). This UDID ensures that each app is treated as a separate entity and cannot be modified by the user, which is why it isn’t possible to open one of Apple’s stock apps and add either new features or a totally different look. iOS devices can be jailbroken without this type of certificate.
Rooting is very similar to jailbreaking in that both methods allow you make changes to your device and install apps that aren’t approved by the original manufacturer. The difference is rooted devices generally allow you to do even more, such as overclock the CPU speed, remove the manufacturer’s boot logo and completely replace one or more of the stock apps with custom ones.
Why Might You Want To Jailbreak?
There are many reasons someone might want to jailbreak their smartphone or tablet device. These reasons could include:
- To install unauthorized apps not found in the App Store.
- To remove or change default applications.
- To allow your device to use third-party wireless carriers other than those approved by Apple.
- To stop receiving official updates from the manufacturer.
How to Level up in Jailbreak?
To jailbreak, you have to use cydia store. Cydia is a third-party app management program that uses APT (Advanced Packaging Tool) repositories and a GUI to download apps that aren’t available in the App Store. It has an entire community built around it with many popular websites, such as ModMyi and iClarified, that provide access to these repositories.
Before you can download third-party apps, tweaks or themes for your device, you will need to know the URL of an APT source.
Sources, or repos, are usually unofficial sites that hold the necessary files for downloading tweaks. Once you obtain these URLs, copy them into Cydia and press “Add Source.” Cydia will then begin downloading all of the information it needs to provide updates to your iPhone or iPad without the need of an Internet connection.
What If I Don’t Like My New Settings And Want To Change Them Again?
If you’re unhappy with the changes you made to your device, it’s possible to downgrade. However, downgrading will erase all of your data – even those files that weren’t touched by the jailbreak process – so be sure to save anything you want beforehand. In order to do this, simply use Cydia and uninstall any existing tweaks. Next, restore your device from a backup that was created before you applied the jailbreak.
What Will Happen When Newer Versions of iOS Are Released?
Apple has already announced it will release iOS 6 to consumers this fall. Since Apple is making these updates available to iPhone users, it’s likely they’ll also be made available through sources in Cydia. In addition, sites such as ModMyi and iClarified will post the necessary steps for upgrading your device in a short period of time after you upgrade iOS from iTunes on your Mac or PC.
Will I Be Able To Upgrade My iPhone Without Losing Jailbreak?
Yes, but it’s important to note that jailbreaking your device will prevent any official updates from Apple. Since you’re technically altering the software that came on your phone, it’s against the license agreement you agreed to when powering up your iPhone for the first time. While jailbreaking will allow you to upgrade, doing so will erase all of the changes made to your device.
Conclusion
Jailbreak is a great opportunity for Apple users to try new ideas and add a huge number of features that weren’t included in the original software. With these steps, you can easily get started with jailbreaking your iPhone or iPad!
