Along with some other bug fixes and tie-ins to the new features in iTunes 9, the iPhone 3.1 update brought with it some nasty surprises for some users. Reports have been coming in that Apple has enforced the Exchange requirement for on device encryption for those Exchange 2007 SP1 servers that have it enabled. This has meant that the iPhone 3G, which the lacks on device encryption and enhanced security measures implemented on the iPhone 3GS, can no longer connect to Exchange servers that require encryption. Although this looks like a bug to your average user, it’s actually a bug fix as the failure to enforce this on device requirement is actually a security loophole.
Another not so favourable feature of iPhone 3.1 is that it disables the free tethering that was possible with 3.0 and 3.0.1. Strictly it was a breach of terms of contract with your carrier, but many people were enjoying BT or USB tethering without having to fork over more money to the carriers.
So if you fall into either the Exchange 2007 SP1 or tethering group you might want to hold off on 3.1, at least for now. Jailbreakers should also sit tight as updated tools will be required for 3Gers. 3GSers might have a difficult time of it if you don’t have your ECID,iBEC & iBSS files already.
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Oh dang. I knew 3.1 would disable tethering. I’m glad I didn’t upgrade yet.
That’s why I’m glad my Blackberry supports tethering as part of my service at no extra charge. Hooray!
To be fair, most cellphone contracts don’t include tethering even if your phone is capable. It’s against the terms of service and could run you either massive bills or being cut off. So the fact that you have to pay to ‘unlock’ tethering via and iPhone is not unusual. The only unusual thing about it is that the phone can do it even if your carrier doesn’t support it out the box. I do like the fact that the iPhone is basically as Apple intended it. No carrier customisation and no crippling (unless you’re in China, sorry guys).