The other day we reported that Apple [AAPL] was shipping their latest iPhone 3GS with a new bootrom update which would effectively stop the iPhone 3GS being jailbroken for the moment.
The good news is that according to Eric McDonald from the iPhone Dev team, any iPhone 3GS with the new bootrom can still be jailbroken, and that the new bootrom only causes a temporary inconvenience.
Understanding the Bootrom Update
According to Eric McDonald, the new bootrom interferes with the 24kpwn exploit that was used to previously jailbreak the iPhone. This exploit was a key method for bypassing Apple’s security measures, allowing users to install unauthorized apps and tweaks. The new bootrom update, however, disrupts this process, making it more challenging to jailbreak the device. Essentially, the update makes the iPhone difficult to start up after it shuts down.
To reboot the iPhone, you will need to plug it into your PC or Mac. This means that if your iPhone 3GS runs out of power or you shut it down, it will need to be tethered for it to turn back on again. This tethered jailbreak is less convenient than the untethered jailbreaks that users have become accustomed to, where the device can be restarted without needing a computer.
Implications for iPhone Users
This new requirement is going to make it more of a hassle for iPhone users, and may deter some from jailbreaking their devices. The need to connect to a computer every time the phone is restarted can be inconvenient, especially for those who rely on their phones throughout the day and may not always have access to a computer.
However, the iPhone Dev Team is known for their persistence and ingenuity. While the new bootrom presents a temporary setback, it is likely only a matter of time before a more permanent solution is found. The Dev Team has a history of overcoming Apple’s security updates, and many in the jailbreaking community remain optimistic.
For example, in the past, similar obstacles have been overcome with new exploits and tools. The Spirit jailbreak for iOS 3.1.2 and 3.1.3, and later the Greenpois0n tool for iOS 4.1, are prime examples of how the community has adapted to new challenges. These tools provided untethered jailbreaks, restoring the convenience that users sought.
Moreover, the jailbreaking community is vast and collaborative. Forums, social media groups, and dedicated websites provide a platform for sharing information and solutions. This collective effort often accelerates the development of new jailbreak methods.
In the meantime, users who are determined to jailbreak their iPhone 3GS with the new bootrom update will need to weigh the pros and cons. The benefits of jailbreaking, such as customization, access to a wider range of apps, and enhanced functionality, must be balanced against the inconvenience of a tethered jailbreak.
Ultimately, the decision to jailbreak is a personal one, influenced by individual needs and preferences. While the new bootrom update complicates the process, it does not make it impossible. With patience and the support of the jailbreaking community, users can still enjoy the freedom and flexibility that comes with a jailbroken iPhone.
via Gadget Lab
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