With all of the advances in technology over the past decade, consumers have found ways to enhance the creations of major manufacturers. Mods are developed for computers, hacks are discovered for video games, and software is developed for cell phones. There is a term related to Apple’s product line that incorporates all of these innovations into one device.
It’s called “Jailbreaking.” We hear it thrown around in the tech industry, but the majority of people don’t really know what it means. Don’t worry, Best Skins Ever is here with all you need to know about the process, terms, facts, and what jailbreaking could mean for your device.
The term “jailbreaking” refers to the process of modifying your Apple device’s operating system. It was originally developed by “jailbreakers” who felt that Apple’s default software was too restrictive. To put this into context, imagine that your Apple device is a sandbox. All of the toys inside of the sandbox are provided courtesy of Apple. There are many other toys outside of the sandbox, but Apple’s pre-installed software will not allow you to bring them into the sandbox. This is the gripe of those who develop jailbreaking software. They seek to enable features to users that are not approved by Apple.
While this might sound appealing, there are distinct pros and cons to the jailbreaking process. If you, or someone you know is considering a jailbreak, you’ll want to keep these factors in mind.
Advantages
Improved control over the look and “feel” of your device
By jailbreaking your phone, you enable a robust deal of options that are unavailable in Apple’s default programming. On a jailbroken device, you can alter the appearance of icons, lock screens, buttons, and much more. This is important because many iPhone/iPad users have complained about the generic device interface.
Access to more apps
Apple places restrictions on the types of applications that their standard customers have access to in order to prevent spyware and viruses. With a jailbroken device, users can access applications featured in 3rd party App Stores for free, as well as many that are not featured at all. This helps to address many issues related to features that Apple does or does not allow on their stock devices.
Disadvantages
Stability issues
Jailbroken devices are known to crash unexpectedly. Depending on who developed your software, there is a chance that running certain functions on a jailbroken device will cause it to crash. Some devices don’t even make it through the installation, and become “bricked.” Devices termed as “bricks” run into issues when installing the jailbroken software, and are no longer functional. This brings us to our next disadvantage.
Performing a jailbreak on your device also exposes you to malware, which Apple protects its default users from.
Voided Warranty
Apple does not resolve issues with jailbroken devices. Assuming you do run into an issue while jailbreaking, there will be no licensed assistant to restore your device to its former settings.
Omission from Apple services
Apple blocks jailbroken devices from accessing services including iBook, Apple’s App Store, and other services that offer downloadable content. This could be a concern if you enjoy these sorts of features.
So what do you think? Is a jailbroken device worth the risk? Or should Apple simply include features that users want to see in future operating systems? The issue is still hotly debated, so if you are considering a jailbreak, be sure to consider the facts beforehand.
image credit: http://www.leawo.com/blog/2011/09/jailbreaking-your-idevices-tips-and-tools-for-you-to-hack-your-ios-devices/
Loading...