Earlier today a beta version of iCloud.com accidentally leaked 2 new web apps, Notes and Reminders, presumably coming to iCloud web-portal. These apps make perfect sense to be on iCloud.com, as they already sync over iCloud across iPhone, iPod touch, and iPad devices, and Apple has added them as apps to the upcoming OS X 10.8 Mountain Lion.

The Reminders and Notes web apps weren't functional, nor was the login, and Apple quickly pulled the beta content offline. In other words, we weren't supposed to see this yet.

If we were to guess, WWDC 2012 would be the logical place for Apple to debut new iCloud features. That's where Steve Jobs debuted iCloud itself last year, and now more than ever the WWDC keynote is Apple's biggest software and services stage.

Unfortunately, there's no sign of Photo Stream yet, which would be nice given the impending loss of MobileMe galleries. Nor is there any sign of iTunes in the Cloud or iTunes Match online access yet.

That's when it will start to become really interesting.

Source: Steve Troughton-Smith

TestFlight, the popular beta distribution service for iPhone and iPad apps, has just launched TestFlight Live and aims to give iOS developers real-time analytics (how many users are using their apps right now), engagement metrics (how often and how long users are using their apps), and more.

TestFlight LIVE has arrived. Use Testflight for more than just Beta testing. Just one SDK for Beta and Live.

One simple line of code empowers developers to take control of their beta testing and their app business. Our goal is to help you build better apps.

Both services are free and we plan to add optional premium features in the future. The features offered today will remain free.

In addition to real-time and engagement, TestFlight Live will also measure audience (which devices and which features are most used), revenue, and stability.

No word yet on what those premium features are, but developers can download the TestFlight Live SDK now via the link below. If any developers give it a whirl, let us know what you think about it in our iOS developers forum.

Source: TestFlight

Just like with the iPhone and iPad, Apple provides a way for developers to send ad-hoc versions of Mac App Store apps out for beta testing purposes. Since there are many apps out now that have iPhone and/or iPad versions as well as Mac versions, even if you're beta testing an iOS app, you might need to know how to install the companion Mac App Store beta version, and its provisioning profile, as well. As long as you gave the developer the proper hardware UUID for your Mac, the process is fairly simple, and not dissimilar from the process of installing iOS beta software on your iPhone, iPod touch, or iPad.

Install the provisioning profile

1. Download the file to your Mac.
2. If the file came zipped, unzip it. (Yeah, obvious, but we try to be complete.)
3. Double click the .provisionprofile file
4. System Preferences will launch; click on Install
5. When prompted, enter your admin password
6. The provisioning file should then show up in your profiles

Install the binary

1. If you have an older version of the app already on your Mac, play it safe and trash it
2. Drag the beta app to your Application folder

That's it. If you have any trouble -- it's a beta app, after all -- check with the developer. You made need to trash some other, previously installed files, or do some other configuration first. When you do have it working, enjoy.

The Mac App Store isn't the only way to distribute software on OS X, so many developers may never need to send UUID-locked beta builds. But if the Mac App Store is the only way the developer intends to distribute their software, this may well be the beta road they take.

• More tips and how-tos
• Mac help and discussion forum

iOS 5.1 beta 3, which was released to developers today, restores the missing 3G toggle Apple removed in the initial 5.1 developer beta.

The restoration of the 3G toggle will no doubt be a welcomed return for iPhone users with inadequate 3G access in their area, or for users who just want to conserve a little extra battery life.

Still, this makes us wonder why they removed the 3G toggle in the first place. Could Apple be planning to make this optional between wireless networks with a per-network proprietary carrier update file?

Thanks: @funguyom!

Apple has just seeded iOS 5.1 beta 3 to developers. If you're looking to get in the latest iOS beta and have a developers account, you can grab it via over-the-air (OTA) update or download from the developer site now.

The changelog hasn't fully been posted as of yet, so we're left wondering what all has changed but if you happen to spot anything -- by all means drop us a note in the comments and we'll update once we know some more.

Source: Apple

In the latest iOS 5.1 Beta 2 it looks like Apple has taken steps to start hiding future iPhone, iPad and other iOS device model references from the bloggers and deep code divers who have previously delighted in finding and exposing them.

Mark Gurman of 9to5 Mac first noted the new, obviously obfuscating entries on Twitter, and now it seems that in the USBDeviceConfiguration.plist, Apple has thrown in over 100 entries have been added for everything from iPad10,1 to AppleTV9,2, and so on.

Interesting new move in the cat and mouse game, to say the least.

Source: Mark Gurman

Why was Siri, the iPhone 4S' flagship intelligent assistant service, launched as a beta, something very unusual for Apple? Benoit Maison published a blog post which sheds some light on the reasoning.

I worked on speech recognition with IBM Research for nearly six years. We participated in DARPA-sponsored research projects, field trials, and actual product development for various applications: dictation, call centers, automotive, even a classroom assistant for the hearing-impaired. The basic story was always the same: get us more data! (data being in this case transcribed speech recordings). There is even a saying in the speech community: “there is no data like more data“. Some researchers have argued that most of the recent improvements in speech recognition accuracy can be credited to having more and better data, not to better algorithms.

While some may think it was not in Apple's best interest to release something so rough around the edges, getting millions of users on Siri might just be the best, fastest way to get it polished. (That and those extra people Apple is putting on the Siri team.)

Source: Benoit Maison

Apple has just begun seeding iOS 5.1 beta and XCode 4.3 to developers. XCode 4.3 is available for download but may not be used to submit apps as it is still in developer preview as well.

iOS SDK 5.1 provides support for developing iOS applications and includes the complete set of Xcode tools, compilers, and frameworks for creating applications for iOS and Mac OS X. These tools include the Xcode IDE and the Instruments analysis tool among many others.

With this software you can develop applications that run on iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch running iOS 5.1. You can also test your applications using the included iOS Simulator, which supports iOS 5.1. There are two Xcode iOS SDK 5.1 images, one for installing on a Macintosh computer running Mac OS X 10.6.7 (Snow Leopard) or later, the other for installing on a Macintosh computer running Mac OS X 10.7 (Lion).

Overall the release notes above are pretty uninformative. We'll update more as we find anything. If you find something, let us know!

Source: developer.apple.com

Devs trying today's 5.0.1 beta can JB with existing redsn0w (but select the 5.0 IPSW thru GUI or command line)

Update: Redsn0w has now been updated to version 0.9.9b8 and it now supports iOS beta 5.0.1. There is no need to use the iOS 5.0 IPSW anymore!

Source: @MuscleNerd

Following up on the beta release of iOS 5.0.1 for developers, Apple has also released iTunes 10.5.1 beta 2, replacing the now timed-out iTunes 10.5.1 beta 1 and allowing for continued testing of iTunes Match.

The Loop's Jim Dalrymple also noticed iTunes Match is now up and running on Apple TV.

While Apple missed their previously stated goal of releasing iTunes Match in September, but since it's still in beta, it looks like they'd rather take the time to get it right, rather than just right now.

Source: developer.apple.com, The Loop

Apple initially stated they would officially launch their iTunes Match service by the end of October. We previously heard they would be launching the service this past Saturday. Seeing as the developer beta expires today we are wondering whether or not we will see an official launch or developers will get another seed. As of this morning there was nothing new in the developer portal and nothing official has been announced or shown up as an update.

Perhaps last minute bugs or issues are causing a delay in the launch of the service. How many of you are anxiously waiting to sign up for iTunes Match? Or are you planning on using the service at all?

Apple has had a number of updates pushed through the pipeline today, and the latest comes in the form of their iOS 5 SDK beta. The updated SDK (software development kit) allows developers to tap into features included in iOS 5 and future beta releases.

Developers working with the iOS 5 SDK beta have access to app integration with iCloud Storage, Newsstand Kit, Core Image, GLKit, Twitter, and new Game Center APIs. iOS Developer Program members can log in to download iOS 5 beta files and the new iOS 5 SDK beta from Apple's iOS Dev Center.

If you notice anything specific just drop into our iOS Developer Forums and let us know!

While the general public gets their first taste of iTunes 10.5 today, Apple isn't wasting any time moving developers up to iTunes 10.5.1 beta. Like other recent betas, it includes iTunes Match functionality for further testing.

If you're a registered dev, grab it via the link below:

Source: developer.apple.com

BiteSMS, one of my favorite jailbreak apps, just got updated for iOS 5. It is a beta version and the developer is asking that you don't submit bug reports just yet as they already know about a lot of them.

Due to the overwhelming number of emails from users wanting to be private beta testers, we have decided to release this iOS 5 compliant version via a public beta repos.

This is a very early beta release, so at this stage please don’t email us bug reports as we most likely know about them. This is not a normal beta, it’s more that users running iOS 5 would no doubt prefer something as opposed to nothing!!!

Saying that, it’s a pretty stable release and we hope you like the new look Quick Compose and Quick Reply plus the deep integration with the Apple Notification Centre. Also iMessage works seamlessly inside biteSMS.

If you'd like to try out the beta version of BiteSMS for iOS 5, simply add the following Cydia repository:

http://test-cydia.bitesms.com/

Once you install the beta version simply perform a tethered boot and you should be good to go. If you try it out let us know what you think. If you need more help, check out our TiPb jailbreak forums!

BiteSMS forums

Theming your iPhone is definitely one of the perks of being jailbroken. Sometimes a really nice theme comes along that completely changes not only the design but the way you use your iPhone. This may be the case with the OS X Ultimatum theme by Modmyi forum member SirTimothy1.

OS X Ultimatium is a complete overhaul of the iPhone UI and brings it back to the look and feel of the full scale version of Mac OS X. The theme boasts of the following features -

• Fully usable and accurate finder bars and menus
• Launchpad - tap it from the dock to view all your apps at once
• Stacks - just like in Mac OS X, quick access to all your favorite apps with one tap
• Scrollable dock - add more dock icons and simply scroll through them
• Draggable windows
• Mission Control - quick access to any widgets or view all open windows
• Functional dashboard - view any widgets by swiping right
• Lockscreen - customizable and functional

The developer is also planning on optimizing the theme even more to free up more RAM. Although this theme is still in beta, donating $3.50 to the developer via Paypal will grant you access to the beta. Hit the link below for even more screenshots, information, and videos of the theme in action! And as always, if you test it out, let us know what you think of it!

Modmyi

Let's be blunt -- if you're not in the TiPb Forums you're missing out on the best darn discussion in iPhone and iPad today, so head on over and register now!

• If the next iPhone does indeed land on Sprint will you leave your current carrier to make the switch?

• Report all bugs/issues on iOS 5 beta 7 here.

• With all of the recent reports of a possible Sprint and T-Mobile iPhone coming soon why not discuss them here?

• iPhone and iPad app reviews.

See you in the forums!

Seeing as Apple seeded iOS 5 beta 6 today, a lot of users want to know if they'll need to wait in order to update and re-jailbreak. The answer to that is no. Go ahead and update. The existing version of Redsn0w for Mac and Sn0wbreeze for Windows will work just fine. I've confirmed this working on a 4th generation iPod Touch. iDB has confirmed it working as well.

The process should be the same as previous versions of Redsn0w and Sn0wbreeze. Just use the new beta 6 firmware file in place of beta 5 or earlier.

As always, remember that not only is iOS 5 in beta, these jailbreak tools are also beta. Unless you're a developer or jailbreak developer, I'd probably hold off on doing this. Not all regular apps are compatible with iOS 5 let alone jailbreak apps. So be advised to proceed at your own risk.

If you're currently running iOS 5 beta 5 but just can't live without your jailbreak, the Dev Team has already released RedSn0w beta 5. The only catch is, it's tethered, just like the previous beta versions of RedSn0w for iOS 5.

Be advised that not all jailbreak apps and tweaks have been updated to support iOS 5. If you're alright with running tethered and don't mind a few bugs here and there, follow along for a quick walkthrough.

By this point, almost anyone jailbreaking is already familiar with RedSn0w and how it works. It's no different this time.

Devices Supported

• iPod touch 3G
• iPod touch 4G
• iPad 1
• iPhone3GS
• iPhone4 (GSM)
• iPhone4 (CDMA)

And I can't say this enough times, if your device is not listed above, please do not attempt to jailbreak it on iOS 5!

What you need

• iOS 5 beta 5 IPSW from Apple's Developer Portal
• RedSn0w 0.9.8b5 - Mac Link, Windows Link

After you have iOS 5 beta 5 installed on your device and your version of iTunes upgraded to 10.5 beta 5, follow the steps below to jailbreak.

1. First launch RedSn0w.



2. It should ask you to navigate to a firmware file. Simply navigate to the iOS 5 beta 5 firmware file instead of beta 2.
3. Once you click next, RedSn0w will take a minute to do it’s thing. You should see a patching kernel message and that Redsn0w successfully recognized your firmware.



4. Next select the options you’d like RedSn0w to perform. I typically only select Install Cydia. It’s worth noting that this is where you will perform a tethered boot if needed as well. You will just select Just boot tethered for now if you need to do this or your device reboots or dies.



5. Redsn0w will now walk you through putting your device into DFU mode



6. After you’re successfully in DFU mode, simply let Redsn0w do its thing and you’re done!

That's it! The process is pretty much the same as the first time around. But if you do run into problems or have questions, make sure you check out our TiPb Jailbreak Forums. We've got tons of great members more than ready and willing to help!

Tips of the day will range from beginner-level 101 to advanced-level ninjary. If you already know this tip, keep the link handy as a quick way to help a friend. If you have a tip of your own you'd like to suggest, add them to the comments or send them in to dailytips@tipb.com. (If it's especially awesome and previously unknown to us, we'll even give ya a reward...)

From the Forums is a great way to see what all of the current hot topics are on the TiPb forums. In order to create any new threads of your own or reply to any of the existing threads, you must be a registered member. Becoming a member is a simple process that will only take a few minutes out of your day, so if you have not already already done so, head on over and register now!

• iOS 5 beta 5 bugs and issues.

• You have one new hardware feature you can choose to be included on the next generation iPhone, what would it be?

• Do you have iPhone obsession?

• What kind of case do you use to protect your iPhone? Or do you choose to roll naked?

• Yesterday Google released a major update for Google+ and we finally have a working version for iOS 5. What are your thoughts on Google+ so far and after this update will you be spending more time using the social network?

See you in the forums!

A screenshot has been found in the latest iOS 5 beta 5 release which again reveals that text to speech may be coming in the final version of iOS 5. Last month we saw some screenshots of a settings screen which allowed you to turn the voice assistant on and off. Now we have another screenshot showing how to activate the speech-to-text from within an app.

Looking at the screenshot, it couldn’t be much simpler. On the keyboard is a microphone icon, click on that and a second screen appears. This allows you to talk into the phone; the voice is then translated to written text and inserted into the text field. According to the same source, this speech to text will only be available for the iPhone and iPod touch. Of course this is a beta we are talking about and things change all the time prior to final release.

This could be a really killer feature of iOS 5; when it is launched in the fall. I would like to see a way of talking to your iPhone without the need to press any buttons. It has been done before by the use of a magic word. You set up one specific word to wake up the phone. The downside is battery life; the iPhone would need to be in a listening state all the time, which would suck up your battery.

[9to5 Mac]

Using Tweetbot and wondering how to enable the recently added experimental push notifications? Tapbots just recently opened up tons more slots in the beta program so if you haven't enabled it, there's still a good chance you can snag a slot.

The most common question I've been getting is how to enable push notifications. Although Tweetbot is a gorgeous Twitter client, the push settings are in a bit of a weird place. Follow along for a quick guide on how to try and activate push in Tweetbot.

1. First launch Tweetbot and click the account icon in the upper left hand corner of your timeline.
2. Then tap Accounts & Settings.

3. You will see a page that lists all your accounts. Tap Settings at the bottom.

4. From the next screen select the username you'd like to try push notifications for.

5. Now select Notifications at the top.

6. Simply turn on the switches for each type of notification you'd like and your'e done!
7. If notifications don't work for some reason, make sure you have Tweetbot push enabled from your general iPhone settings under Settings and Notifications.

As a side note, Tweetbot push is still experimental and they are only allowing so many users at one time. Most people seem to be getting it to work but if you get an error message, the testing slots could just be filled. Keep trying to turn them on occasionally to see if more testing slots have opened. Hopefully push will be available publicly soon!

Tips of the day will range from beginner-level 101 to advanced-level ninjary. If you already know this tip, keep the link handy as a quick way to help a friend. If you have a tip of your own you'd like to suggest, add them to the comments or send them in to news@tipb.com. (If it's especially awesome and previously unknown to us, we'll even give ya a reward...)

iOS 5 beta 3 has an interesting new addition -- Accessibility has been augmented with a gesture based control panel inside “AssistiveTouch” that can reproduce all the functionality of the existing hardware buttons, and much more.

Once turned on in Settings, the control panel can be activated by tapping the overlay on screen. It pops up with a menu containing Gestures, Favorites, Devices, and Home. Gestures has a sub menu for 2, 3, 4, and 5 finger gestures, and once you choose a quantity, blue circles in the appropriate amount appear on screen. Favorites contains defaults like Pinch and Swipe, and any custom gestures you've created. Device replicates the hardware features such as Rotate Screen, Lock Screen, Mute/Unmute, Volume Up/Volume Up, and Shake.

While some may think this heralds Apple ditching hardware buttons, remember, you would still need a way to reset your device if it locks up, to turn off the ringer or change volume if it's in your pocket or purse, and to keep iOS accessible for children and people form whom complex UI and gestures are a barrier to entry.

Still, this could turn out to be a very interesting addition to iOS 5, especially for advanced users who want to have a software-based interface. Most importantly, it shows that Apple -- who is already incredibly far ahead of the competition when it comes to accessibility -- is not slowing down.

[Thanks @kyledziekan]

From the Forums is a great way to see what all of the current hot topics are on the TiPb forums. In order to create any new threads of your own or reply to any of the existing threads, you must be a registered member. Becoming a member is a simple process that will only take a few minutes out of your day, so if you have not already already done so, head on over and register now!

New personalizations!

You may have noticed our new and improved forums, we've gone and added yet another little feature many of you have asked for, postbits. In your user control panel simply go "edit your details" and you now have the ability to add your carrier, devices and so on so it is shown for all users to see.

New threads

• Do you need some people to add to your Google+ circles? If so visit the Google+ thread and you'll find plenty of people to add! And as a shameless plug if you'd like to add yours truly you can find me here.

• iOS 5 beta 3

• How many new iPhones do you think we will see this fall?

• Fall will be here before you know it along with a possible iPad HD?

Is there something you'd like to see added to the forums? Jump in the Feedback Forum and let us know!

See you in the forums!

The TiPb forums are naturally a great place to talk, commiserate, celebrate, get help, and offer advice to your fellow iPhone users. Below we've compiled a few of the most current hot topics in the forums for you to participate in. In order to get in on the action you must be a registered member. Becoming a member is easy and free so if you haven’t already, head on over and register now!

• iPad 3 coming this October

• iOS 5 beta 3

• iOS 5 beta incompatible apps/games

• iPhone vs Android device - always a fun topic to debate.

See you in the forums!

Just get iOS 5 beta 2 and already wondering how to Jailbreak it? We recently showed you how to jailbreak iOS 5 beta 1 with Redsn0w. Fortunately, the process for beta 2 isn't much different. You'll simply need to use the beta 1 IPSW in order to jailbreak.

As always, betas are already buggy to begin with, and iOS 5 is no exception. The Dev-Team and many jailbreak devs are really only encouraging developers to jailbreak iOS 5 beta as of now. So if you are a developer (or a ninja who is afraid of nothing), follow along for a short walk-through.

Devices Supported

• iPod touch 3G
• iPod touch 4G
• iPad 1
• iPhone3GS
• iPhone4 (GSM)
• iPhone4 (CDMA)

And I can't say this enough times, if your device is not listed above, please do not attempt to jailbreak it on iOS 5!

What you need

• iOS 5 beta 1 IPSW from Apple's Developer Portal
• Redsn0w 0.9.8b1 - Mac Link, Windows Link

After you have iOS 5 beta 2 installed on your device and your version of iTunes upgraded to 10.5 beta 2, follow the steps below to jailbreak.

1. First launch Redsn0w.



2. It should ask you to navigate to a firmware file. Simply navigate to the iOS 5 beta 1 firmware file instead of beta 2.
3. Once you click next, Redsn0w will take a minute to do it’s thing. You should see a patching kernel message and that Redsn0w successfully recognized your firmware.



4. Next select the options you’d like Redsn0w to perform. I typically only select Install Cydia. It’s worth noting that this is where you will perform a tethered boot if needed as well. You will just select Just boot tethered for now if you need to do this or your device reboots or dies.



5. Redsn0w will now walk you through putting your device into DFU mode



6. After you’re successfully in DFU mode, simply let Redsn0w do its thing and you’re done!

That's it! The process is pretty much the same as the first time around. But if you do run into problems or have questions, make sure you check out our TiPb Jailbreak Forums. We've got tons of great members more than ready and willing to help!

Tips of the day will range from beginner-level 101 to advanced-level ninjary. If you already know this tip, keep the link handy as a quick way to help a friend. If you have a tip of your own you'd like to suggest, add them to the comments or send them in to news@tipb.com. (If it's especially awesome and previously unknown to us, we'll even give ya a reward...)

Miss your tweaks and wondering how to Jailbreak iOS 5? As long as your okay with a tethered jailbreak for now, you can get your jailbreak on again thanks to Redsn0w 0.9.8b1.

It's worth noting first that the Dev-team is calling this jailbreak a beta. Which means there could (and probably will be) quite a few bugs. Also keep in mind that a majority of jailbreak apps have not been updated to support iOS 5 as of yet. So just be forewarned. If you're okay with being tethered and dealing with a few bugs, click through for a quick walkthrough!

Devices supported

• iPod touch 3G
• iPod touch 4G
• iPad 1
• iPhone3GS
• iPhone4 (GSM)
• iPhone4 (CDMA)

If your device is not listed above, please do not attempt to jailbreak your device. Yes, iPad 2 owners, I'm looking at you!

1. First you will need to download Redsn0w - Mac Link, Windows Link
2. Next you will need to make sure you have the iOS beta 1 firmware file from the Apple Developer Portal or wherever else you choose to find it.

3. Launch Redsn0w. You should be asked to navigate to the firmware file from the previous step. Select it and click next.

4. Once you click next, Redsn0w will take a minute to do it's thing. You should see a patching kernel message and that Redsn0w successfully recognized your firmware.

5. Next select the options you'd like Redsn0w to perform. I typically only select Install Cydia. It's worth noting that this is where you will perform a tethered boot if needed as well. You will just select Just boot tethered for now if you need to do this or your device reboots or dies.

6. Redsn0w will now walk you through putting your device into DFU mode

7. After you're successfully in DFU mode, simply let Redsn0w do its thing and you're done!

Have you jailbroken iOS 5 yet? If so, what has been your experience? Are your normal tweaks working for you or have you had more issues than usual? Let us know in the comments or in our TiPb jailbreak and unlock forums!

Tips of the day will range from beginner-level 101 to advanced-level ninjary. If you already know this tip, keep the link handy as a quick way to help a friend. If you have a tip of your own you'd like to suggest, add them to the comments or send them in to news@tipb.com. (If it's especially awesome and previously unknown to us, we'll even give ya a reward...)

When Apple announced that iOS 5 would let you snap pictures with the volume up button, it was only a matter of time before some enterprising developers discovered the ability to use a headset equipped with volume remote control as a camera shutter release.

Using the stock Apple headphones that come with your iPhone, iPod touch, or iPad, you simply:

1. Open the Camera app
2. Click the volume up remote to release the shutter
3. Enjoy your long distance picture taking power

So camera enthusiasts, is this a big deal for you or just a nice to have? Will it change the way you take pictures with your iPhone, iPod touch, or iPad?

[MacRumors]

Wondering how to downgrade from iOS 5 to iOS 4? Maybe you rushed out to test your app on the next big thing but now have to deal with a bug in the here and now version, and you don't want to buy an additional device, or maybe you just don't have what you need yet and you'd prefer to wait for a later beta. Either way, it is possible to go back to iOS 4. Last year we showed you how to downgrade from the beta version of iOS 4 as well. I am pleasantly surprised with how good the first beta version of iOS 5 is, but if for any reason you need to go back to iOS 4, we'll show you a couple ways after the break!

I don't recommend downgrading firmware unless you really need to. It can be a painful process that most people won't like dealing with. But if you need to, it is completely possible.

Downgrade via XCode (Mac Only + dev license)

Downgrading via XCode is probably the easiest way to roll back to a previous version of iOS. The bad part is that it can sometimes put you into a never ending DFU loop. You can typically use iRecovery to kick you out of it.

1. Download the firmware version you'd like to downgrade to. For most people, this will probably be iOS 4.3.3 so simply find and download it via *iClarified*.

2. Open XCode and from the top select Window and then Organizer.

3. You should now see your device. Under software version, it will show you are on iOS 5. Choose to restore from Other Version.

4. You can then navigate to the iOS bundle you'd like to restore to that you downloaded and saved in step 1.
5. Let XCode do its thing. If you're lucky, you're done. If not, go to the next step. (aka if you get any error message or get thrown for a loop via DFU craziness.)
6. You'll need to use a program like iRecovery which is linked above. I use Faster iRecovery as opposed to the original. Also, download the libusb files for Mac as well. iRecovery uses these.
7. Simply run iRecovery after you'd downloaded the libusb files and it should throw your phone out of recovery mode.
8. After this, simply restore in iTunes and you should be downgraded. The first time you may get an error, simply restore again like you normally would and it should downgrade successfully.

As a side note, PC users can also use iRecovery and libusb if they get stuck in a DFU loop.

Downgrade via iTunes beta with TinyUmbrella (Mac and PC)

You need iTunes 10.5 beta for this, which is also available via Apple's dev portal (and maybe elsewhere if you scan the internet)

You also need TinyUmbrella

• Mac download
• PC download

This is the route PC users will have to take. Mac users may also choose to do it this way if they don't have XCode or the SDK. Start this process with your device NOT connected to your computer.

1. Install iTunes 10.5 beta and TinyUmbrella

2. Then open TinyUmbrella and click on Advanced.
3. Uncheck the box that says Set Host to Cydia On Exit.
4. Restart your computer.
5. Now plug in your device and turn back on your computer.
6. After your computer restarts, you'll need to go into iTunes. It may bring up error messages again. That's okay. Just ignore them for now.
7. You'll need to put your device into DFU mode. Refer to our DFU mode instructions if you're not sure how to do this.

8. If you don't do it correctly, just try again. When you get your device into DFU mode correctly, iTunes will pop up and tell you the device can't be used until it is restored.
9. You can now restore your device like normal.

If you downgraded successfully using one of our ways (or a different way), let us know how it went in the comments! If you need additional help, check out our TiPb jailbreak forums.

Tips of the day will range from beginner-level 101 to advanced-level ninjary. If you already know this tip, keep the link handy as a quick way to help a friend. If you have a tip of your own you'd like to suggest, add them to the comments or send them in to news@tipb.com. (If it's especially awesome and previously unknown to us, we'll even give ya a reward...)

Nestled deep within the iOS 5 beta code lies hints at Apple planning a panorama photo feature, allowing users to capture panoramic images without the need for 3rd party apps from the App Store.

PANO_OPTION = “Take Panorama”;

SAVING PANORAMA = “Saving Panorama”;

CANCELPANOBUTTON_TITLE = “Cancel”;

The feature isn't enabled in the current beta, and it's unclear whether developers will be able to turn it on for actual use, but this small bit of code may sound an alarm for some 3rd party panoramic app developers by adding one more category of apps that Apple is taking for themselves.

Would apps like AutoStitch Panorama and 360 Panorama become obsolete if Apple decides to roll out a native panorama feature for the iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch camera? Or would they see an opportunity for higher end, more professional apps like LockInfo's David Ashman and Instapaper developer Marco Arment?

[9to5Mac]

As with all new beta firmware, it appears there are references to new hardware in iOS 5. I expected there to be references to a 5th generation iPhone model but there are also placeholders for new iPad models as well. TUAW is reporting that they found references to not only two difference 5th generation iPhone models, but 2 different iPad models as well.

I'm assuming the two iPhone references are to the GSM and CDMA models of whatever the 5th generation iPhone will be called. I definitely didn't expect to see two new iPad models this soon. And even more interesting, there are no new references of a fifth generation iPod Touch. Considering Apple typically releases new iPods in the Fall, we normally see code pointing in that direction around this time.

From TUAW -

Specifically, there are declarations buried in the iOS system files that reference "iPad3,1" and "iPad3,2." Likewise, "iPhone4,1" and "iPhone4,2." The iPhone 5 will be a 4th generation unit because the iPhone 3G was technically 1st generation. This throws off the numbering and confuses everyone, so don't fret if you were confused....

What do you guys think? I'm going with the fact that they just stuck place holders in there for future iPad iterations. They've done it in the past. I am, however, intrigued that there are no iPod references found this close to what should be an iPod refresh.

TUAW

Just heard about Apple's shiny new iOS 5 beta and curious how you can test it out early? Unfortunately, a bunch of shady characters will no doubt pop up offering to sell early access to unsuspecting users, often leaving them high and dry when betas expire. Luckily, Apple provides the betas directly to anyone signed up for their paid iOS developers program (not the free ones, sorry). Sure it costs $99 a year, but it gives you a year of beta access for iPhone, iPod touch, iPad, Apple TV, iTunes, Xcode, etc. and leaves you in control of your own destiny when it comes to updating.

If you're thinking about developing for iOS 5 and want to test it out, follow on after the break and we'll tell you how!

WARNING 1: There are a couple giant red flags you need to be aware of before you begin. First, betas are not meant for your main, day-to-day iPhone. They're called betas for a reason and there can be any number of bugs, glitches, and gotchas that will make your life miserable. Use a secondary device, like an old iPhone or iPad, or an iPod touch to test with.

WARNING 2: Once you go beta, it's difficult to impossible to go back to a previous version. One. Way. Trip. So if you put iOS 5 on your main iPhone and hate it, tough luck. If you miss your Jailbreak, too bad. What's done is done. So again, a secondary device is your friend.

WARNING 3: Apple warranties and AppleCare don't cover devices with beta firmware. If you have a problem with your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch and it's running iOS 5 beta, the local Apple Store geniuses can't help you. You'll have to contact a special developer support center for assistance, and that's usually nowhere near as convenient.

WARNING 4: Once you sign up, download, and install beta firmware, you've agreed to Apple's pre-release NDA (non-disclosure agreement). That means, like Fightclub, you can't talk about iOS 5 in public. Sure, people break NDAs and send blogs like TiPb and others tons of images and descriptions, but they can be held accountable by Apple, have their developer accounts revoked, and otherwise suffer penalties in accordance to the NDA. So once you're through the looking glass, mum's the word.

Now that you've been warned, let's get on with it!

Signing up for the iOS developer program

1. Point your browser to http://developer.apple.com/programs/ios/
2. Click on Enroll now
3. Review the steps if you want to, then click Next
4. If you're already a developer (for example, Safari or Mac), you can sign in with your existing Apple Developer ID and skip ahead to step number 10. Otherwise, you need to create an account or tie it to your existing Apple ID (iTunes, MobileMe, etc.)
5. Choose whether you want to enroll as an individual or a company. If you're just one person and don't have team who'll be working with you, choose individual.
6. Sign in with your Apple ID.
7. Apple will email you a verification code. Enter it and click Continue.
8. Soak in your welcome, then click Continue.
9. Now here's where it gets a little confusing. You're registered but you're not paid yet, which means SDK access but no beta firmware. So next you have to pay up. Go back to step number 4, but this time choose "Existing Apple developer" and enroll.
10. Choose Individual or Company, as above, and sign in with your Apple ID, also as above.
11. Enter your billing information, follow the instructions, and the Apple Online Store will take care of the rest.

That's it, you're now a registered and paid Apple iOS developer and ready to download your beta firmware and get with your testing. Good luck!

Tips of the day will range from beginner-level 101 to advanced-level ninjary. If you already know this tip, keep the link handy as a quick way to help a friend. If you have a tip of your own you’d like to suggest, add them to the comments or send them in to news@tipb.com. (If it’s especially awesome and previously unknown to us, we’ll even give ya a reward…)

MobileNotifier is a great start to what iOS notifications should really look like. Keep in mind this app is still in beta before you go replacing LockInfo. I've been playing with MobileNotifier today and it's got a lot of potential.

One thing I really like is the ingenious way MobileNotifier makes use of the wasted space while multitasking. When the tray is pulled up, the top of the screen is really just a bunch of empty space. Why not make use of it? MobileNotifier does by putting all your notifications in it. The latest beta also adds support for a lockscreen mode. The app doesn't currently have any built-in settings but we'll have to keep in mind it's an early release of the app.

With an early release comes compatibility issues and bugs. BiteSMS currently doesn't seem to want to populate in MobileNotifier for me. Hopefully this and several other compatibility issues will be addressed in a future beta. Hit the jump for a couple more screens and to find out how you can grab MobileNotifier!

You can get MobileNotifier for free by adding the following repo to Cydia -

http://phajas.xen.prgmr.com/repo

Check it out and let us know what you think!

Google 'Instant Previews' is slowly appearing on iPhones and iPads.

Google rolled out their 'Instant Search' feature to iOS last November which allowed you to see instant results as you typed in your search. 'Instant Previews' allows you to view a screenshot of any webpage before loading it up, saving you time in the long run.

'Instant Previews' is accessed by tapping a small magnifying glass next to a result, which opens a new UI (reminicent to Safari's Tab UI) so you can scroll through all the different page screenshots.

Instant Previews hasn't hit all iOS devices yet, and Google is still yet to make an official announcement.

Have you had the pleasure of Instant Previews on your iPhone or iPad? Let us know what you think below.

[via 9to5mac]

Apple has approved an update to an app that required iOS 4.3 for all the features to work correctly. The app that has received the approved update is called StreamToMe. StreamToMe is an app that allows you to stream music, photos and videos from your Mac or PC over WiFi and 3G. Nothing special there except that this version has the option to use AirPlay which requires iOS 4.3 to function.

Apple seems to be in a hurry to get iOS 4.3 out of the door. The normal two week updates have been reduced to every week for this beta so expect to see iOS 4.3 sooner rather than later. As with all beta's however major bugs can be found so this could all fizzle out and delay the whole process; it does however look like iOS 4.3 could be just around the corner.

[iTunes Link]

iOS 4.3 has just come out in beta with a rumored release date anywhere from February 10 (the Verizon iPhone release date) to March, 2011, and new features like Wi-Fi personal hotspot for iPhone and multitouch navigation gestures for iPad.

If you want a quick look at the new software but don't have a lot of time, check out the video above for everything you need to know about iOS 4.3 in just 5 minutes. For a more in-depth iOS 4.3 guide, read on after the break.

Note: We're combining iPhone, iPod touch, and iPad walkthroughs below since, post iOS 4.2 grand-unification the size of the updates are roughly similar. If it gets more complicated later, we'll split iPhone/iPod touch out from iPad like last time.

What hasn't changed

iOS 4.3 looks to have interesting albeit far from numerous changes thus far. Since we're only covering what's new and improved, here's a list of previous walkthroughs for those new to iPhone, iPod touch, and iPad so you can learn about all the established features. Major releases in bold.

• iOS 4.2 for iPhone | iOS 4.2 for iPad
• iOS 4.1 for iPhone
• iOS 4 for iPhone
• iOS 3.2 for iPad
• iOS 3.1 for iPhone
• iOS 3.0 for iPhone
• iPhone 2.2 for iPhone
• iPhone 2.1 for iPhone
• iPhone 2.0 for iPhone

System-wide changes

AirPlay

AirPlay was introduced in iOS 4.2 and allows video and audio to be sent from iPhone, iPod touch, iPad, and iTunes on Windows or Mac to an Apple TV, or audio-only to a growing number of 3rd party speakers and other accessories. While iOS 4.2 only provided video-to-Apple TV support from the YouTube and iPod/Video apps, iOS 4.3 promises to allow both apps and web content the ability to send video to Apple TV. (It's up to individual developers to implement, of course.)

Apple's own apps, like Photo, should be able to AirPlay video recordings in iOS 4.3 as well. Hurray.

3rd party apps like Air Video and Zumocast should gain Airplay Video streaming. No word yet on Angry Birds (using iPhone or iPad as a controller, naturally).

Home Screen

SpringBoard, the app that runs the home screen and overall interface in iOS, gets its multitasking dock UI tweaked once again on iPad.

Multitouch navigation gestures (iPad only)

Apple has introduced 4 or 5 finger multitouch navigation gestures in the iOS 4.3 for iPad beta with language that indicates they may or may not be bound for primetime:

We are providing this preview before releasing them to the public to understand how these gestures work with your apps. Test them and give us your feedback on the Apple Developer Forums.

The new gestures don't replace the Home Button but do reduce the amount of times you need to single or double click it, which could reduce concerns of hardware wear and tear post iOS 4.

The new gestures can be done with 4 or 5 fingers and resemble multitouch trackpad gestures available on Mac OS X since the introduction of the original MacBook Air in 2008 and expanded upon in the recent Mac OS X 10.7 Lion preview given by Steve Jobs at the Back to the Mac event. The gestures currently include

• Pinch all fingers in to exit an app and return to the Home Screen (identical to single-clicking the Home Button).
• Swipe up from the bottom bezel to reveal the multitasking Fast App Switcher Dock (identical to double-clicking the Home Button).
• Swipe sideways from left to right or right to left to move between recently open apps (similar to double-clicking the Home Button to reveal the Fast App Switcher and tapping on an app icon immediately to right).

The sideways swipe is interesting in that it allows you to go left or right whereas the Fast App Switcher reorders the recent app icons so you always go backwards in "time" to the right. It seems perceptively faster for a single app-back movement since there's no carousel animation, yet you can only swipe back one app at a time whereas you can tap on any of 4 immediately available app icons in the Fast App Switcher and swipe back 4 additional apps at a time.

Performance on the current generation iPad, however, is hampered by lack of RAM. With only 256MB many apps will need to reload when you swipe back to them (at least so far in the beta). An iPad 2 with 512MB -- or better yet 1GB -- would fly with this system (just sayin'...).

Mute widget (iPad only)

When iPad shipped with iOS 3.2 the hardware switch above the volume rocker was set to lock or unlock screen orientation. In iOS 4.2 it was changed to a mute/un-mute switch like iPhone. Uncharacteristically, Apple has now added a Settings toggle to let the user choose which function they want the switch to perform. Since iOS 4.2 added a software orientation lock widget in the multitasking Fast App Switcher dock, iOS 4.3 now also toggles between that widget and a software mute button to fill whichever function is no longer being provided by the hardware switch. (Hardware switch set to orientation lock means dock widget becomes mute button and vice-versa.)

Photos

As mentioned above, you now have the ability to send recorded videos out over AirPlay to Apple TV, something which was noticeably missing when the feature was introduced in iOS 4.2.

Notes

iOS 4.2 finally let us change the Notes font from Marker Felt to something -- anything -- else, as long as that anything else was Helvetica or Chalkboard. Well it turns out Chalkboard wasn't long for this world as it has been replaced in iOS 4.3 with Noteworthy.

App Store

The App Store gets a new design for the Updates page.

iAds

For developers, iAds can now go full screen. That includes the big iPad screen, which Apple says allow for "immersive, interactive iAd experience". They also say the new banner format is easy to implement.

HTTP Live Streaming metrics

HTTP Live Streaming, the technology Apple uses to stream high quality video including their own press conferences and events, now includes viewer engagement and performance metrics. This is intended to help developers fine tune and optimize their content.

iTunes

iOS 4.2 beta 2 brings a new set of push notifications to the table -- for Apple's Ping social musical network. So if you've been dying to know what Phil Schiller -- or Chad -- has bought, liked, or commented on in iTunes as instantaneously as possible you'll get your wish just as soon as iOS 4.3 ships.

Settings

Not only does Settings hide the usually interesting tweaks found in any new iOS version but this time it's home to one of the marquee new features -- Wi-Fi Personal Hotspot.

Personal Hotspot (iPhone only)

Freshly sandwiched in between VPN and Notifications for iPhone users is the new top-level Personal Hotspot setting. (It also find it in Settings: General: Network: Personal Hotspot, where it replaces the previous Tethering setting, but why dig that deep when you no longer have to?)

When you tap Personal Hotspot you're taken to a screen that lets you toggle it on or off (why can't we do this top-level like Airplane Mode or VPN?) along with your -- visible -- current WPA access point password (with no choice to hide it). Instructions on how "to connect using Wi-Fi" have been added to the previous tethering instructions for Bluetooth and USB. As before with Bluetooth, if you don't have Wi-Fi enabled you'll get a popup asking if you'd like to enable it or if you'd prefer to tether via Bluetooth (if that's enabled) or USB.

You can change your WPA password by tapping on it, and you're warned the new password must be at least 8 characters long (we recommend something not easily guessed like "password") and that changing the password will disconnect any currently connected devices.

When activated you get the same blue bar across the top of your iPhone that tethering presented under iOS 3 and iOS 4, though renamed Personal Hotspot and now indicating the number of devices connected (up to a maximum of 5).

Location Services

Location Services has also been promoted to top level in iPhone, iPod touch, and iPad. (see iPhone screenshot above, iPad screen shot below)

General: Restrictions

If you don't want your children discovering new, electronic hipster songs on Apple's social music network, Ping, iOS 4.3 lets you disable it via the Parental Controls.

General: Use Side Switch to (iPad only)

The iPad's hardware switch, originally released as an orientation lock/unlock in iOS 3.2 and changed to an iPhone-like mute/un-mute switch in iOS 4.2 now becomes user assignable in iOS 4.3. Yes, with a simple checkbox you can choose which way you personally like it.

As mentioned up top, whichever option you do not choose becomes a software control in the multitasking Fast App Switcher dock.

General: Multitasking Gestures (iPad only)

A simple toggle allows you to turn on or off the new multitasking navigation gestures (see the description under system-wide changes, above).

(If you don't see the setting try connecting your iPad to Xcode and hitting the "use this device for development" button.)

Messages (iPhone only)

The settings for Messages now allow you to choose how many times you want SMS/MMS alerts to sound, repeated at two minute intervals. Choices include:

• Once
• Twice
• 3 Times
• 5 Times
• 10 Times.

Notes

As mentioned previously, Noteworthy replaces Chalkboard in the Notes settings.

Phone + Contacts

A minor but likely very welcome change in iOS 4.3 beta sees the addition of a wait button to the add contact phone number's extended keyboard and the rejiggering of some of the other buttons like pause.

Safari

Hopefully Apple's comments about AirPlay supporting web content means we'll be able to stream H.264 video from Safari to Apple TV as well under iOS 4.3.

In addition we'd expect Apple adds whatever other HTML 5, CSS, and Nitro (their JavaScript rendering engine) improvements they've made since iOS 4.2 shipped.

Hints at more

As is often the case, iOS 4.3 beta 1 contains strings and refrences that hint at even more features, including those for future devices.

• Find My Friends feature hidden in iOS 4.3?
• iOS 4.3 beta points to iPad 2 cameras but no Retina Display
• iPhone 5, iPad 2 model numbers found lurking in iOS 4.3

Pricing and compatibility

No iOS 4.3 pricing information has been made available but we'll go out on a limb and say it'll likely be free for everyone and all devices, same as iOS 4.2.

Compatibility, however, is so far even more restricted that iOS 4 -- namely iPhone 3G/iPod touch G2 do not have beta versions of iOS 4.3 to date.

• iPhone 4, iPod touch 4 (2010), iPad: All features
• iPhone 3GS and iPod touch G3 (2009): No features requiring iPhone 4 or iPod touch 4-type hardware (i.e. front facing camera)
• iPhone 3G and iPod touch G2 (2008): not compatible/no update (yet?)
• iPhone 2G and iPod touch G1 (2007): not compatible/no update

We'll update as soon as we find an official list from Apple.

Not concluded

It's possible Apple will supply additional new features in a future iOS 4.3 beta or even take some existing beta features away. As always, If you noticed we missed anything, drop us a note in the comments or send us an email and we'll update as needed.

Google Instant (beta) appears to be showing up on the Safari browser for some iPhone, iPod touch, and iPad users. I just checked mine and I've yet to have it roll out here in good old Michigan City (we don't even have 3G yet, so my expectations aren't that high). For those of you not familiar with Google Instant, you search on Google as you normally do but instead of having to hit the search button and wait for the page to come back, results populate as you type.

Rene's had it for a while but didn't see fit to tell the rest of us. Shame on him. It will definitely be interesting to see how this feature works on iOS.

If any of you have instant yet, let us know what it's like in the comments!

via 9to5Mac

Alongside iOS 4.2 beta 2, Apple has also released iTunes 10.1 beta for developers to help them get their apps ready for the new firmware due in November.

This is a pre-release version of iTunes 10.1 beta to support testing of printing from your iOS app. Be sure to backup your iTunes content prior to installing iTunes 10.1 beta.

AirPrint to support wireless printing, along with AirPlay to support audio and video streaming are among the most prominent features.

[developer.apple.com, thanks for the tip DigitalLifeDad!]

It's a miracle! Developers, the new iOS 4.2 beta 1 is now available for iPhone, iPod Touch and the iPad. We have been skeptical in the past as to when Apple would release iOS 4.2, but now we have a clear road map leading up to a November release. Of course, we could cross our fingers and get it early November... Apple... please?

Here is a quick summary of some of the changes:

• Wireless printing, so we can shoot docs from our iOS device to a receptive paper printer. (Not word on compatibility requirements yet though).
• AirPlay, which takes AirTunes to another level with streaming video and pictures, and should let us beam content from iPhone or iPod touch to the new Apple TV. (Perfect to take a movie to friends or family).
• Find text on web page, finally. In Safari, easily search for and highlight specific words and phrases.

[via AppAdvice]

Earlier this afternoon Apple released the very first beta for iOS 4.1 along with the software development kit (SDK) to all developers. Unfortunately, there has been no word on what changes have been made within the software from Apple. If you are a developer and notice anything worth a mention, be sure to let us know.

Sound off in the comments below!

Update: what about iOS 4.0.1 and iOS 4.x for iPad? And what's the deal with the new iOS 4.1 signal bars algorithm?

Apple is launching a new version of the online MobileMe calendar web app, and much like they did with the new version of online mail, the design influence of the iPad app is unmistakable. Want in on the beta? Here's what you have to do:

To sign up, go to me.com/calendar and click "Request an invitation." You will receive an email notification when you have been added to the beta (we will add members in the order of their request over the coming weeks).

New features include:

• The aforementioned new, iPad-like UI.
• Shared calendars (for family and friends).
• Published calendars (for groups and teams).
• Event invitations with RSVPs (yes!).
• Based on CalDAV standard.

It's good to go on iPhone, iPod touch, iPad, and Mac, with Outlook support for the PC coming soon.

So, how does it sound? Enough of an upgrade? Anything major still missing? Anyone get in on the beta yet?

Full feature descriptions after the break.

[MobileMe News]

Beautiful new web application
The Calendar beta includes a new web application at me.com with great-looking calendar views. You'll find redesigned day, week, and month views, as well as a new list view to make scanning your events easier. Your calendars will also load faster, thanks to improved performance. The new web application works best with Safari 5, Firefox 3.6, and Internet Explorer 8.

Share calendars with family and friends
You can easily share your calendars with one or more MobileMe members to keep everyone on the same page. For example, create a shared calendar called "Kids" for school and weekend activities. You can allow the person you're sharing a calendar with to edit events, and set up email notifications to tell you when they make a change.

Publish a calendar for a group or team
The Calendar beta lets you share a read-only public calendar that can be viewed by anyone, perfect for publishing an events calendar such as a soccer team schedule. After setting it up you can send the team members a link to view the calendar on their iPhone, iPad, iPod touch, Mac, or PC.

Event invitations with RSVPs
Inviting any guest to an event is easy from the MobileMe Calendar beta. Just add their email address to the event (they don't have to be a MobileMe member) and your guests will get an invitation email they can respond to directly by clicking a link. Your event then automatically updates, making it easy to track RSVPs right in your calendar.

Works on iPhone, iPad, iPod touch, and Mac
The MobileMe Calendar beta uses the CalDAV standard so you can view and edit your calendars using the built-in calendar applications on your iPhone, iPad, iPod touch, and Mac. Please note that support for PCs with Microsoft Outlook is coming soon.

Apple announced today that they're opening a beta program for the "next MobileMe Mail" in order to get user feedback on the new features it will bring:

Widescreen and compact views. When reading your mail at me.com, the new widescreen view lets you see more of each message with less scrolling. Choose compact view to hide your folders or classic view to see more of your message list.

Rules to keep your email organized everywhere. Mail rules help you reduce inbox clutter by automatically filing messages into folders you select ahead of time. Set them up at me.com, and your rules organize your incoming email on the web and everywhere else — on your iPhone, iPad, iPod touch, Mac, and PC.

Single-click archiving. Click the Archive button and the selected message is quickly filed into the Archive folder where it's always available for future reference.

Formatting toolbar. You can create great-looking email messages using formatting buttons to bold or italicize text, change font color, insert images, and more. You can even create formatted web links to hide long URLs.

Improved performance. Mail at me.com loads your inbox and messages faster. And with interface refinements such as the ability to scroll through your entire inbox without having to manually click to load the next set of messages, you'll be able to work more efficiently.

Increased security with SSL. With the MobileMe Mail beta, accessing your email on the web is more secure than ever. Your inbox is protected to prevent anyone from eavesdropping on your webmail. As always, you receive SSL protection when you use your MobileMe Mail account on your iPhone, iPad, iPod touch, Mac, and PC.

Really Apple, you had me at Rules.

Originally introduced alongside iPhone 2.0 and the iPhone 3G at WWDC 2008, MobileMe has since introduced a few key features like Find my iPhone (and now iPad) but has seen few overall improvements. While the push experience itself has become good, the feature set is increasingly lagging behind free services like Gmail and premium services like Exchange.

Do these updates make MobileMe Mail more attractive to you?

[Apple MobileMe News]

Just the other day iPhone Dev Team member, MuscleNerd, announced the release of iPhone 4.0 redsn0w 0.9.5 beta for developers and now he has announced beta number 2 0 [download link].

Since most jailbroken apps are currently busted in the iPhone OS 4 (iPhone 4.0) beta, this particular version of redsn0w is meant to be used solely by developers to fix their jailbreak apps and should not be used by anyone else.

Are you are considering to jailbreak when iPhone OS 4 is released? Tell us why or why not in the comments below!

iPhone 4 is already readily available over the internet. Somewhat less than honorable “developers” are even offering to “sell” access to the 4.0 beta. This has led to a lot of users getting, or at least thinking about getting, the 4.0 beta for their own iPhones (it's currently not even loading on iPod touches -- and forcing complete restores for recovery, so don't even consider that at the moment!). Well before you take the jump think carefully. And think twice!

Read more after the break!

This is not finished software. This is a beta, and not in the Google/Gmail perpetual meaningless beta sense. This is a true beta in that it is not meant for production iPhones, used as primary devices, out in the real world. Who knows what kind of de-bug, trace, non-optimized, or generally not finished code is running in the current, and first iPhone 4 beta. If you’re a legitimate developer, using 4.0 on a test device to check for compatibility for your apps and report bugs back to Apple is one thing. To think you can use it for regular, day-to-day use is quite another.

First kiss iTunes backups goodbye and don't expect working multitasking as no 3rd party apps have been updated to support it. 4.0 may be slow. Lists may disappear. Sound may cut out. Connection may time out. Battery time may worsen. 3rd party apps may crash or otherwise not work well. And you may need to reset your iPhone daily, if not several times a day, to work around the beta nature of the current build. You get the idea and that’s what happens with a real beta.

Also, these beta’s expire, and if you don’t have quick access to the next beta, you’ll be without your iPhone — and that’s assuming Apple doesn’t wait hours or days between expiry and the next beta release. And dropping back down to the previous build isn’t always easy or possible.

So, yes, iPhone 4 has lots of amazing features, and we hope very much it will be killer stable come “summer”-time when Apple releases it via iTunes for everyone.

Until then, read our iPhone 4 coverage. Watch Apple’s video. If you’re not into testing pre-release software, if you’re not patient, if you need a reliable, primary iPhone, if you want it to “just work” think twice before loading the iPhone 4 beta. Then think again. One look at our developer forum shows it isn’t a smooth ride.

(And tech pundits who’ve told readers and listeners it’s no big deal, and to go for it, should also think twice and remember they’re often cutting edge users themselves, with many devices to fall back on — not the case for everyone.)

9to5Mac continues to search the latest iPhone 3.2 SDK beta and have found that Apple has removed all of the video iChat references that were found in the first beta a few weeks back showing icons for accepting and declining video chat, as well as strings referencing the same functions.

Could this be a intentional move made by Apple to hide this feature until the big announcement or has it been scrapped by none other than Steve Jobs himself? The video iChat feature has teased us all in the past, hopefully we find out once and for all this summer if we will be so lucky.

All iPad/iPhone developers out there will be happy to know that if you head over to the Apple Developer site you'll notice that the iPhone 3.2 SDK beta 2 is now available for your downloading pleasure. The servers are still getting flooded at the moment but you might as well try to get your download on.

Of course this SDK is under a NDA so if you want to know about all of the changes from the previous beta, you'll have to check it out for yourself. And feel free to share your finding with us in the comments below!

[Via TUAW]

The iPhone Dev-Team is back, this time with the first beta of RedSn0w 0.9 for Mac and Windows. Version 0.9 will allow for jailbreaking, unlocking, and customizing of the iPhone OS 3.0/3.1.2 software. It is important to note that this beta supports every iPhone and iPod touch with the exception of the iPod touch G3. (That will be supported after the beta period is over.)

For quite some time now blackra1n has been the most-used tool to get your jailbreak on but the way this new version of redsn0w works, could that change? You see this software uses the original Pwnage bootrom exploit from iPhone 2G, iPhone 3G, and iPod 1G. What this means is the only way for Apple to combat it is via a hardware change. However, for the iPhone 3GS and iPod 2G running 3.1.2, things are a little different as they still use the USB exploit that is said to be going away with the iPhone 4.0.

Due to some last minute forum software changes, the Dev Team isn't promoting the release yet, but if you'd like to check it out for yourself, the Mac version can be downloaded here while you can grab the Windows version here. (We'll update with a link to the Dev Team post when it goes live).

[Via iClarified]

Our sibling site, Android Central, brings word we'd almost given up faith at ever being brought'ned. Google apps, including the Gmail, Calendar, Docs, and Talk we love so much on the iPhone (and iPod touch), are out of beta and high on life! Google's own blog explains-ish:

We've come to appreciate that the beta tag just doesn't fit for large enterprises that aren't keen to run their business on software that sounds like it's still in the trial phase. So we've focused our efforts on reaching our high bar for taking products out of beta, and all the applications in the Apps suite have now met that mark.

Makes the kind of sense that doesn't, but whatever. Opaque, non-standard definitions of beta aside, it's still good news. What's next, announce a second operating system or something?

Anything but Push Gmail, right?

iPhone 3.1 Beta 1 has just been released, and unlike the major new version that was iPhone 3.0, it's still unclear how many features -- compared with bug fixes -- will be added. However, enterprising developers have already discovered at least a few things we can all look forward too.

So, here's TiPb's iPhone 3.1 Beta Walkthrough, and we'll keep it updated as/if Apple releases future betas.

Home Screen

The jigglies -- what Dieter lovingly calls the little dance icons do when you hold them down long enough to make them moveable and rearrangeable -- now make the iPhone vibrate once to further indicate the change of state. Whether or not this will somehow factor in to the iPhone 3GS accessibility features is uncertain.

Voice Control

Voice Control, after holding down the Home button for several seconds, let you speak simple commands to place calls and control music. In iPhone 3.1, it will also work over Bluetooth.

The exact process isn't clear yet, but it's hard to imagine anything other than holding down the call button on a Bluetooth headset function similarly to how the Home button currently works.

Messages

After being present in iPhone 3.0 Beta 1 through Beta 4, before being stripped out in Beta 5, AT&T users will again find MMS functionality restored to the interface. However, it's not functional without hacking the carrier file, and it's unknown if it will survive until release or be stripped out again if AT&T still isn't ready for the feature to go live.

Calendar

Calendar gets a minor tweak in iPhone 3.1. Now event alerts also display the location of the event in the popup. Presumably, this is now considered important glance-able information.

Photos

Video trimming is now non-destructive. Previously, if you trimmed a video, it was automatically saved over the original, meaning you could never undo or go back to the full clip. Now, a Save As... dialog gives you the option of preserving the original and creating as many version copies as you want (an short clip to email, a longer one to share to YouTube, and the full clip to sync and bring into iMovie, for example).

Phone

Copy and Paste comes to the Phone Keypad. Just tap and hold and the input area will change from dark blue to light blue, and the Copy Paste menu will pop up.

Reportedly, the iPhone Paste feature is "smart" enough to change alphanumeric phone numbers to pure numbers (i.e. 1-800-FLOWERS to 1-800-356-9377).

When Will it Ship?

If history is any indication, iPhone 2.0 was released on July 11, 2008, and iPhone 2.1 followed some two months and 4 betas later on September 12, 2008 hot on the heels of Apple's Let's Rock introduction of the 2nd generation iPod touch. Will we have to wait for another new iPod and music event before we see 3.1?

Our guess is Apple will try to get 3.1 out earlier to fix a few of the more onerous bugs, but as always, only Jobs knows for sure...

Note on Using Beta Software

Unlike iPhone 2.0 Betas, where access seemed much more limited and leaks were few and far between, 3.1 like 3.0 seems to be on every iPhone users want-now list. Also, unlike 2.0 when many devs were seasoned pros, now Apple is touting thousands upon thousands in the program, some seemingly happy enough to enable 3.0 access for the general user base.

However, betas are intended for developers to test and report back on. They're not as stable, not as snappy, not as feature-complete and anyone trying to use them as a production OS on their main (or worse, only) device is likely to have something less than an ideal experience. People trying to use it as such may wish they could go back to iPhone 3.0 almost as much as they wished for 3.1. Think thrice before taking the plunge.

[Via Chris, Muero, WhenWillApple, and BGR. Thanks to everyone who sent in descriptions and screenshots.]

It’s that time again — time for us to pick out some of the hot topics on TiPb’s forums. In order for you to reply to any of the following threads please be sure to register. It’s a painless process that will only take a moment of your time.

Todays first thread in the spotlight was started by Ivoryplum, what would you like to see in the iPhone 3.1 software? We already got word two days ago that the 3.1 beta has been made available to developers and along with some of the new features that are included in the release. What else would you like to see added and/or corrected in the 3.1 software?

By now, chances are you already own a iPhone 3GS - how is it holding up? Do you have any hardware related issues similar to those good folks over at PreCentral.net? If so, stop by the following thread and share your troubles with us: iPhone 3GS Bugs/Issues. Luckily for all of us here at TiPb, we have zero issues.

This next thread was started by rrrl17, while a new iPhone has just been released it's never too early to start discussing the next generation! What do you expect from the next generation of iPhone? Will Rene's dream of an iPhone HD finally come true?!

Our last thread of the day comes to us from Joey Neat and he wants to know about battery life on the iPhone 3GS? So far TiPb can't complain too much, it pretty much appears to be what we expected. And for those of you really think it is lacking in battery power, hopefully the 3.1 software will give you a little bit of a boost.

See you on the forums!

Say you are having a hardware related issue on your iPhone, first place you would think to go is your local Apple store, right? Well not if you're running iPhone 3.0 Beta it turns out, as MacRumors forums show you will politely get rejected and denied any sort of help.

TiPb has confirmed this is indeed true from speaking with a few Apple employees.

Now where does that leave someone who purchased the beta from a stranger on Graigslist? Not in a good place obviously since to get your issue taken care of or to have your phone replaced you must call a developer-only help line. Now if you are a bit more expierienced with the iPhone you can always try to downgrade back to the 2.2.1 software before going into the Apple Store but say your home button is not working, you are flat out of luck and you are now stuck with a official iPhone paper weight.

So with all that said, TiPb can not stress enough -- and we've said it many times -- do not purchase the 3.0 Beta from anyone.

This late into the beta cycle, in a few short months it will be released to the public anyway.

There are no demos available in the App Store, we know this. No try before you buy, no download now, pay later. According to Erica Sadun at Ars Technica, even mentioning demo in your verbiage, like beta, will get you a swift kick in the rejection button. Free "Lite" versions are the only way to go.

Zach Epstein over on the Boy Genius Report wonders out loud why Apple, in its infinite usability, can't create a mechanism where Apps get downloaded free, and then expire after a short period of time unless you decide to buy and keep them.

So, does Apple really not know how to handle App Store demos yet? Or do they suspect, as TiPb does, f that demos would kill the $0.99 novelty App (and CrApp) impulse-buy business dead? After all, how many would really not tire of the gags before the demo period expired?

I'll fess up that the Lil John "YEAH!" "OKAY!" "WHAT!" travesty App would never have eaten my $0.99 had there been a demo! What percentage of Apps you've bought, do you think having had a demo period wouldn't have made sure you didn't buy instead?

No, not the 2.1 firmware beta, that one's for realz. We're talking here about the Washington Post, which ran a Techcrunch story breaking the news that:

Now we're hearing from an app developer that Appleis finally going to start rolling out a new beta program in the next few days has released an Ad-Hoc program. Details are slim, but it seems like Apple is capping the total number of beta participants at 100 per app. In order to download a beta app, users will need to submit their iPhone's UDIDs number to the developer,who will then need to flag its eligibility in the store itself. All betas will still be distributed through the App Store - you won't be able to download one on an external site.The apps will be directly distributed by the developer.

Sound an awful lot like the Ad-Hoc distribution method Apple announced for educational institutions way back at WWDC to you? Sure did to iPhone developer extraordinaire Erica Sadun, who rumor smashed thusly:

The "Beta Program" will not be released in the "next few days." Ad-hoc distribution is already available and working. Developers can create ad-hoc provisions through the iPhone Developer Program site today.

Sadun also provides a handy-dandy Ad-hoc Helper app for mailing your UDID directly to a developer, should you be part of an Ad-hoc app distribution group.

Apple has just dropped the sixth (6th!) update to their iPhone SDK and 2.0 beta firmware. Pre-req is Apple's almost simultaneously dropped OS X Leopard update, 10.5.3, so developers are forewarned to get that first before beginning the SDK install.

No word yet on what new treasures may be hiding in this version, but if past betas are any indication, there'll no doubt be something hidden in them there strings

According to TUAW, however, Apple is now carding. Yup, they're checking Application IDs at the door, so make sure you're registered before you try to install apps on a test iPhone.

Head on over to Apple's iPhone DevCenter to get yours now!

A New Version of the iPhone SDK is Now Available Sixth beta version just posted.

Via

After waking up on Tuesday to face the dreaded Blue-- er... Pink-Screen-of-Death (?!) that signaled the expiry of the 2nd beta release for the iPhone SDK, would-be-developers managed not to go to bed angry as Apple kissed and made-up in the form of SDK Beta 3.

Erica Sadun over on TUAW reports that the latest/greatest weighs in at 1.4GB, or just three-quarters the size of the original beta, with the matching firmware at under 200MB according to a commenter.

What new goodies does this release hold? We'll have to wait a bit to find out. But with the continual slow, grinding, excruciating march towards an anticipated June release (WWDC? June 30 at 11:59 pm? Little help?) waiting is something iPhone lovers are used to.

According to Engadget, Apple is serving up (yet another?) new beta firmware, this one doing away with the (confusing?) 1.2.0 designation and lining up squarely behind Steve Jobs' announced 2.0 labeling.

Aside from some VPN, mail, and ActiveSync tweaks and re-org's, Engadget can't find much else aside from the shiny new version release, but as June gets closer, no doubt Apple's engineers will get busier!