iPhone 3G Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Collection of Questions and Answers to clarify doubts about the iPhone (3G version).
Last update 28/10/2008 15:00 pm

Q: Can I avoid activating my iPhone and therefore not providing data to Apple about my phone ID and my SIM?

A: Yes, to do this you need to use QuickPwn or PwnageTool which, at the same time as the JailBreak, also perform the activation.

Q: How do I create an iTunes account without a credit card?

A: iTunes retains credit card information that will be automatically used when you download paid apps through the App Store or songs through the iTunes Store. To register without using a credit card you can do so with one of the many guides that use Gift Cards to create an iTunes account.

We actually recommend a faster method: if you have a credit card (postepay is also fine) enter the details when registering. Then go to your profile page, then "edit payment information" and choose "none" to remove your credit card information. iTunes will no longer have the number and you will not be able (even without realizing it) to make any purchases.

D: Does JailBreak, void the warranty?

A: Yes, Apple explicitly writes that installing third-party apps voids the warranty. However, it is enough to return the iPhone to its initial state by restoring the original firmware through iTunes and the warranty is valid again.

Q: What is the difference between QuickPwn and PwangeTool?

A: They both use the same technique to jailbreak the iPhone. QuickPwn is a very easy-to-use "one-click" application, available for MacOSX and Windows, that follows the user step by step through what they need to do.
PwangeTool is always developed by the same team, but it offers more possibilities to customize the process and creates a custom firmware that the user must then restore to the iPhone (with the iTunes restore procedure).

Q: I bought an iPhone 3G that is not unlocked. How can I proceed with unlocking to use any sim?

A: For now the only way is to buy a TurboSim or similar (search on eBay) that allows you to use any SIM. A version of QuickPwn will be available soon that also unlocks the phone part and will not require the use of other systems.

Q: Why JailBreak iPhone?

A: This is one of the most frequently asked questions. There are many reasons; mainly the possibility of installing a whole series of applications that are not found in the App Store. It is possible to install Winterboard and modify themes, icons, unlock buttons, scripts, logo, keyboard, etc. and customize everything on your iPhone. With other programs it is possible to organize more than 9 pages of applications, have full access to the iPhone file system to solve problems, use application launchers (Quicksilver style), exchange files via Wi-Fi.

Turn your iPhone into a modem or use Skype and other apps to make VoIP calls over 3G or Wi-Fi.

Record videos, increase camera potential, send and receive MMS, run applications in the background.

For those wondering, it is also possible to install and run IPA files not signed by Apple and sitting somewhere. And…no, it is not possible to send and receive files via Bluetooth (requires firmware changes by Apple).

As a final consideration, it is possible to develop applications with the SDK without paying another €90 for the license on the iPhone.

Q: I have installed Fring, how can I call over a 3G Internet connection (without necessarily using a wireless network)?

A: Only if you have JailBreake on your iPhone 3G will you be able to use volpover3G which makes all apps think they are connected to wifi when they are actually connected via 3G. It works in all applications, not just Fring.

Q: Should I use Cydia or the installer?

A: During the JailBreak with QuickPwn, these applications are installed, which are a kind of App Store with repositories of different files and containing more than 500 programs. Currently you have to use Cydia, the installer contains many fewer applications and will need to be updated.

Q: Does the iPhone have anti-water sensors?

A: Yes, they are checked when you send your iPhone in for service to make sure it hasn't gotten wet, and if so, the damage is not covered by the warranty.

iPhone 3G Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)