FaceTime

Apple Releases iOS 7.0.4: Jailbreak Safe but You Should Probably Avoid it

Apple released iOS 7.0.4 to fix a FaceTime bug that caused "calls to fail for some users." Soon after the release, @iH8sn0w tweeted that the update “has no security changes.” iH8sn0w later added that the last few iOS updates "have not been directed as patching anything jb-related," and that Apple is probably waiting for the iOS 7 jailbreak to be released before they patch any exploits.

iOS 7.0.4

Soon after iH8sn0w's tweet, @MuscleNerd also confirmed that iOS 7.0.4 is jailbreak safe, but advised users to “avoid it" if they plan to jailbreak in the future. Apple's previous OS update, 7.0.3, was also found to be safe for jailbreakers by the evad3rs, who are the team of hackers working on the iOS 7 jailbreak.

More iOS 7 Features: Audio-Only FaceTime Calls and Time Stamps For iMessages

Developers keep discovering more and more new features in the iOS 7 beta everyday. Here are few new discoveries since Apple released the third beta on July 8th.

iOS Facetime

Previously iOS users could only make video calls while using FaceTime, but Apple has added the ability to have audio-only voice chats when using the video conferencing feature. To make an audio call using FaceTime, just locate and tap the person's name you want to contact, then tap the new telephone icon to place the call. You will be able to perform other tasks like muting the microphone or switching to a video chat once the call is connected.

AT&T Expanding FaceTime Over Cellular Access

FaceTime users with the iPhone 4S rejoice. You won't have to upgrade to the LTE iPhone 5 in order to use the service with an AT&T tiered data plan. Over the next few months, the carrier is rolling out cellular FaceTime access to everyone with a compatible device, except for those with grandfathered unlimited data plans.

Previously, FaceTime over cellular was only available to iOS devices with LTE, including the iPhone 5, third and fourth generation iPads, and the iPad mini. AT&T explains they have completed testing on their networks to ensure that providing this added service will not adversely affect subscribers.

AT&T Rolls Out FaceTime Over Cellular to Select Customers

AT&T announced earlier this month that iOS 6 users with an LTE device and a "tiered data plan" would be allowed to use FaceTime over a cellular connection. While a step in the right direction, AT&T's new restrictions still left out those with grandfathered unlimited data plans and older devices. However, it looks like AT&T may have had a change of heart.

Unlimited Data

According to Cult of Mac and MacRumor forum users, grandfathered customers with unlimited data plans, and those with the iPhones 4S can now use FaceTime over a cellular connection. Cult of Mac reader Michael B. was one of the first to notice the change:

"I have AT&T grandfathered unlimited data. Rebooted my phone and now FaceTime is enabled. Woohoo! Looks like AT&T’s accountants figured out that they’ll make a bundle on overages with everyone making phone calls in High Def."

AT&T Changes Cellular FaceTime Policy

AT&T has decided to stop charging some of its customers for using FaceTime over a cellular connection. iOS 6 customers with an LTE device on any tiered data plan will be able to use the feature at no extra charge. This also includes deaf and hard of hearing customers who qualify for "special text and data-only packages".

AT&T

AT&T felt it needed to limit the amount of FaceTime calls out of fear that its network was not ready to handle the surge of video calls. The company added it will "also continue to offer FaceTime over Cellular to customers with any AT&T Mobile Share plan, as well as FaceTime over Wi-Fi, which has always been available for all customers".

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