The Chronic Dev Team has finally released their Greenpois0n iOS 4.1 jailbreak, which was initially scheduled for release over the weekend until GeoHot decided to release Limera1n. This unexpected release by GeoHot prompted the Chronic Dev Team to modify their jailbreak tool to incorporate the same exploit used in Limera1n. This strategic move ensures that the SHatter exploit remains available for future use, preserving a valuable resource for the jailbreaking community.
Understanding the Jailbreak Process
Jailbreaking an iOS device involves removing software restrictions imposed by Apple, allowing users to install third-party applications, tweaks, and themes that are not available through the official App Store. The Greenpois0n jailbreak tool, developed by the Chronic Dev Team, is designed to exploit vulnerabilities in the iOS operating system to achieve this goal. By leveraging the same exploit as Limera1n, Greenpois0n ensures compatibility with a wide range of devices running iOS 4.1.
One of the key aspects of this jailbreak is its “untethered” nature, which means that once the device is jailbroken, it does not require a computer connection to reboot. This is made possible through a userland hack from @comex, a well-known figure in the jailbreaking community. However, it is crucial for users to back up their SHSH hashes for iOS 4.1 to maintain the ability to restore their device to a jailbreakable state in the future.
“Because the “untethered” part of this jailbreak comes from a userland hack from @comex, you should still backup your SHSH hashes for 4.1. Do this by either letting Cydia keep them (“make my life easier”), or using Tiny Umbrella. This way you can always come back to an untethered, jailbreakable 4.1 on your devices after Apple has closed their 4.1 signing window (they’ll close the 4.1 window once they push out their next firmware version). If you fail to do this and ever need to restore to 4.1 again, you can still jailbreak but it will be a tethered JB (you’ll need to connect to your computer to finish the booting process, each and every time).
And remember: you can backup your 4.1 SHSH hashes without even being at 4.1 or even being jailbroken, by using Tiny Umbrella.” iPhone Dev Team
Importance of Backing Up SHSH Hashes
Backing up SHSH hashes is a critical step for anyone considering jailbreaking their iOS device. SHSH hashes are unique signatures that Apple uses to verify the firmware version being installed on a device. By saving these hashes, users can ensure that they can downgrade to a previous firmware version even after Apple stops signing it. This is particularly important for maintaining an untethered jailbreak, as newer firmware versions often patch the exploits used by jailbreak tools.
Users can back up their SHSH hashes using tools like Tiny Umbrella or by allowing Cydia to save them automatically. This precautionary measure provides a safety net, enabling users to restore their device to a stable, jailbreakable state if needed. Without these backups, users may find themselves limited to a tethered jailbreak, which requires connecting the device to a computer for every reboot.
The release of Greenpois0n marks a significant milestone for the jailbreaking community, offering a reliable and untethered solution for iOS 4.1 devices. By adopting the same exploit as Limera1n, the Chronic Dev Team has ensured that the valuable SHatter exploit remains available for future use, safeguarding the community’s ability to jailbreak upcoming iOS versions.
You can download the jailbreak over at Greenpois0n via Slashgear.
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