Well, as long as you are running iOS 5.0/5.0.1 on your device, you can now jailbreak your iPhone 4S / iPad 2 on Windows! Make sure to backup your device before proceeding and read the instructions carefully. It is incredibly easy but you will still be held responsible for messing up your device if you should fail. You can always revert back to being non-jailbroken, but if Apple finds out, they will not honor the manufacturers warranty.
Benefits of jailbreaking include the ability to install apps not sanctioned by the App Store. Jailbroken devices have access to Cydia, the hub of “illegitimate” apps. Here are a few examples of apps you’re missing:
- MyWi: Turns phones into mobile hotspots
- Intelliscreen: Puts e-mail and calendars on the home screen
- MxTube: Download YouTube videos onto your phone for offline viewing
- My3G: Allows for previously Wi-Fi-only processes to run on 3G, like HD YouTube videos
- PDANet: Share Internet connection
Jailbroken devices are free to video chat over 3G with FaceTime, previously a Wi-Fi only feature. There is also the ability to switch carriers (i.e. to T-Mobile’s GSM network) if you do not have AT&T/Verizon.
Drawbacks to jailbreaking may include a large amount of data being used for things like FaceTime over 3G. There also might be bugs, security concerns, or concern over voiding warranty.
You decide if it’s worth it!
