Thoughts on 1.1.4 programming

Quite a few readers have asked me whether I intend to continue programming for 1.1.4 firmware. In a nutshell, the answer is "no". And here are my reasons why.

First, beta 2.0 firmware has already been repeated pwned. By "pwned", I mean that it's been opened up for command-line access with a BSD subsystem and full Unix file-system jailbreak. The latest pwnage software (version 1.1) is about one beta behind but there's no indication that the jailbreak path has ended.

Second, Apple has publicly announced huge changes between the upcoming 2.0 firmware and the current 1.1.4 release. Software written for the new system simply will not be compatible with older 1.1.4 jailbreak iPhones because Apple's announced changes will greatly affect the underlying software frameworks.

Between the continued jailbreak upgrade path and the lack of compatibility, 1.1.4 is now a dead platform. I expect some continued support for the firmware from third party developers but like with the major 1.0.2 to 1.1.1 jump, lots of software is getting left behind in the change.

Speaking of jailbreak, Apple has promised support for free software distribution through the iTunes AppStore. A big reason for going jailbreak has been access to third party software. The installed user base is going to undergo a radical shift as jailbreak systems become the minority distribution portal.

And there's the matter of the open and closed SDK. These have drifted apart significantly. I predict a rather hard choice for developers as they go with either one approach or the other. Maintaining two separate development paths for every product and utility is too cumbersome to contemplate. I'm hoping to continue with programs in both arenas but dont' ever expect to see an Apple-sanctioned "Erica Utilities" or UIctl. At the same time, I've been porting VoiceNotes over to the official SDK and am continuing to push development into that new arena where possible.