Jailbreaking your iPhone isn’t really something Apple wants you to do although it is presently legal within the U.S. under copyright laws. According to the Register, a patent that Apple seeks will be “covering an elaborate series of measures” in order to “protect iPhone owners from thieves” and other users that are unwanted. That patent, entitled “Systems and Methods for Identifying Unauthorized Users of an Electronic Device,” would protect Apple liability in jailbreaking exploits, but it would also allegedly lock down a user’s phone
Anybody can see a jailbroken iPhone’s info
Apple has the story it says when talking about jailbreaking iPhones which is that personal data is given to many when jailbreaking an iPhone. Private data such as geotagging or also being able to turn on an iPhone’s camera is much easier when the iPhone has been jailbroken, says Apple. Any jailbroken iPhone would get locked down by Apple if the patent is approved which Apple states is really just making the user safe.
Apple keeps an eye out
If a user’s iPhone suddenly shows a rise in memory usage, The Register suggests, then Apple could identify the phone as having been jailbroken, as such activity is, in Apple’s estimation, consistent with hacking programs. Unlocking an iPhone (opening it up so that it can be used on cellular networks other than AT and T) would also be detectable if Apple’s patent is approved. The Register reports that Apple would also be able to detect “fraudulent use” by tapping to the iPhone’s accelerometer to determine whether the device is being carried by “thieves in transit.” Voice-print identification and other new security measures are suggested by Apple. Of course, that is a terrible idea if you ask consumer rights groups or technical experts.
How will the patent affect who can use the camera?
Apple will be able to activate your iPhone camera if the patent is approved. Anywhere you are, somebody can see you. Steve Jobs will always have that access. Do you really think it is a good idea to let Apple have the control of being able to turn your cameras on and see what you are doing at any time? Steve Jobs might have an opinion on your situation.
The Register
theregister.co.uk/2010/08/20/apple_jailbreak_patent/
