Legacy iOS Kit: Jailbreaking and Restoring Older iPhones
What is Legacy iOS Kit?
Legacy iOS Kit is an untethered, multi-purpose jailbreaking tool for older 32-bit and some 64-bit iPhones (iPhone 3G to iPhone 7, up to iOS 16). It offers around 40 open-source utilities for restoring, downgrading, saving SHSH blobs, and jailbreaking through Mac or Linux. While some utilities may not function on specific models, it's a valuable resource for legacy iOS devices.
How to Install Legacy iOS Kit
Despite a complex interface, installation is straightforward. Download the latest version or clone the GitHub repo. On macOS, install bash, curl, and libusb via Homebrew or MacPorts, and optionally cocoadialog. On Linux, extract the downloaded files. In both cases, run the restore.sh file in the terminal to install dependencies.
How to Use Legacy iOS Kit
Key functions include:
- Jailbreaking: Connect your iPhone, trust the computer, run restore.sh, select "Jailbreak Device," and put your iPhone in DFU mode. Alternatively, sideload a jailbreak IPA using AltServer or Sideloadly.
- Restoring 32-bit Devices: Install OpenSSH from Cydia, connect your device, run restore.sh, select "Restore/Downgrade," set the IPSW, and enter DFU mode. The process is similar for 64-bit devices.
- Saving SHSH Blobs: Connect your device, run restore.sh, select "Save SHSH Blobs Onboard Blobs," set and install the current IPSW, and enter DFU mode. This allows downgrading to older firmware even if Apple no longer signs them.
For related information, check out articles on iOS updates and security considerations. If you're working with newer iPhones, consider alternatives like TweakBox.