14 DAY TRIAL // By visiting jailbreakme.com on Mobile Safari, owners of an Apple device are greeted by an interface (pictured left) featuring a slider which kicks off the jailbreak process. JailbreakMe works on the device itself, which means that users can visit the website on their iPhone, iPod touch, or iPad and achieve the hack without having to connect the device to a computer. By visiting the same address on a desktop browser, a FAQ is provided.
According to the iPhone Dev Team @comex has put some “serious work” into JailbreakME 2.0. The tool ca effectively jailbreak pretty much every Apple device running iOS (except for the original iPhone, or iPhone 2G), under several firmware versions, including the latest one (iOS 4.0.1). The iPad is also supported.
The JailbreakMe 2.0 Star FAQ starts off with an explanation of what jailbreaking is:
“A jailbreak is simply the ability to run apps and use themes and tweaks not approved by Apple. Jailbreaking doesn't slow down your device or use any extra battery. A jailbreak lets your device be how you want it,” comex explains. To make sure you can always jailbreak in the future, “Firstly, don't update past 4.0.1, the last firmware JailbreakMe supports,” the hacker continues. “Secondly, and arguably most importantly, allow Cydia to "make your life easier". This will allow you to always restore back to the latest firmware available when you select that option,” comex adds.
Visitors of jailbreakme.com also learn that jailbreaking is reversible by simply connecting the device to a computer, and restoring with iTunes to a stock IPSW file. comex notes that jailbreaking is now legal in the US, outlining that “a new DMCA exemption was approved by the Library of Congress, specifically allowing jailbreaking.”
Although most of the work has been carried out by comex, several other iPhone Dev Team members are credited in the FAQ, including BigBoss, chronic, DHowett, MuscleNerd, planetbeing, posixninja, and saurik. “Thanks to everyone else that tested and helped, and all who donated,” comex states.
Softpedia doesn't encourage jailbreaking / unlocking the iPhone / iPod touch / iPad, or any other device. This article has a purely informational purpose and doesn't, in any way, suggest that you should hack your Apple device. Using hacks may render your device unusable, or may reduce the quality of your experience employing the respective device. If you choose to download and install jailbreak tools, you will do so at your own risk. Unlocking / jailbreaking your iPhone / iPod touch / iPad may violate your warranty or the EULA with Apple and / or your cellular-service provider.