Apple released a new version of its mobile operating system Monday. The update, iOS 5.1.1, includes several bug fixes like the one for the network switching issue with iPad 3 and the URL spoofing vulnerability in mobile Safari to name a few.

Below are the key improvements and big fixes, as per release notes accompanying the iOS 5.1.1 update:

  • Improves reliability of using HDR option for photos taken using the Lock Screen shortcut
  • Addresses bugs that could prevent the new iPad from switching between 2G and 3G networks
  • Fixes bugs that affected AirPlay video playback in some circumstances
  • Improved reliability for syncing Safari bookmarks and Reading List
  • Fixes an issue where 'Unable to purchase' alert could be displayed after successful purchase

Apple also explained the security content of the iOS 5.1.1 software update on its security support page:

Safari

Available for: iPhone 3GS, iPhone 4, iPhone 4S, iPod touch (3rd generation) and later, iPad, iPad 2

Impact: A maliciously crafted website may be able to spoof the address in the location bar

Description: A URL spoofing issue existed in Safari. This could be used in a malicious web site to direct the user to a spoofed site that visually appeared to be a legitimate domain. This issue is addressed through improved URL handling. This issue does not affect OS X systems.

WebKit

Available for: iPhone 3GS, iPhone 4, iPhone 4S, iPod touch (3rd generation) and later, iPad, iPad 2

Impact: Visiting a maliciously crafted website may lead to a cross-site scripting attack

Description: Multiple cross-site scripting issues existed in WebKit.

WebKit

Available for: iPhone 3GS, iPhone 4, iPhone 4S, iPod touch (3rd generation) and later, iPad, iPad 2

Impact: Visiting a maliciously crafted website may lead to an unexpected application termination or arbitrary code execution

Description: A memory corruption issue existed in WebKit.

The iOS 5.1.1 update is now available to users as both an iTunes and OTA update. The download links are given below for individual devices. However, those users, who are currently using an untethered jailbreak on iOS 5.0.1, are recommended to avoid updating to 5.1.1.

iOS 5.1.1 download link: iPhone 4S, iPhone 4 (GSM), iPhone 4 (CDMA), iPhone 3GS, iPad 3 WiFi, iPad 3 GSM, iPad 3 CDMA, iPad 2 WiFi, iPad 2 GSM, iPad 2 CDMA, iPad,iPod touch 3G, iPod touch 4G.

MuscleNerd warned users via Twitter, saying jailbreakers with an iPad 2, a new iPad or an iPhone 4S should stay away from the update. He tweeted:

iOS 5.1.1 is out...jailbreakers beware! Owners of iPhone4S or iPad2/3 should stay away from it!

However, the latest iOS version can be jailbroken tethered on A4 powered devices such as iPhone 4, iPad 1, iPod touch 4G and below.

On the other hand, tinkerers with older devices can tether jailbreak 5.1.1 using last month's redsn0w (just pre-select the 5.1 IPSW), MuscleNerd tweeted.

Here're the steps to follow to jailbreak your iPhone, iPad and iPod touch tethered on iOS 5.1.1 using Redsn0w.

Step 1: Download the latest version of RedSn0w 0.9.10b8b.

Step 2: Connect the device to the computer, place it into DFU mode, and run RedSn0w.

Step 3: Go to Extras > Select IPSW > and point to the iOS 5.1 firmware for this device.

Step 4: Once RedSn0w successfully identifies the 5.1 firmware, go back to the main page of RedSn0w and click Jailbreak.

Step 5: Once it identifies the build, click Next where it asks to install Cydia.

Step 6: Cydia will be installed, and the device will reboot. After reboot, place the device back into DFU mode.

Step 7: Perform a tethered boot via RedSn0w by going back to the Extras page and clicking Just Boot.

Step 8: The device will reboot, and you will have a usable Cydia icon on your Home screen.

[Source: iDownloadBlog]