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One of the groups behind the unlocking of the iPhone for wireless networks other than AT&T's and hacks to allow the installation of third-party software isn't going to go down without a fight.

The iPhone Dev Team has promised a workaround to counteract the potentially fatal effects of Apple's forthcoming software update to the iPhone and reset tool to allow those with hacked iPhones to return their device back to its factory state. This tool would allow you to install Apple's upcoming firmware and - should you choose - use the iPhone with AT&T again.

Earlier this week, Apple warned iPhone users that the installation of "unauthorized iPhone-unlocking programs" could cause a irreversible damage to the software that runs the iPhone after the installation of an Apple-supplied software update, one of which is due later this week. Apple added any unauthorized modifications to the iPhone’s software, such as hacks to allow for third-party software, will void the warranty.

Strong language from a company that previously took a neutral stance on iPhone modifications; no doubt set in motion through pressure from AT&T, which makes the most money off the iPhone if it is used on its network, and Apple's revenue sharing deals with that carrier and the other mobile operators who will soon carry the iPhone (e.g. O2 in the UK, Orange in France, and T-Mobile in Germany). Rumor has it Apple stands to gain an astounding 30 to 40 percent of these carriers service revenue.

The iPhone Dev Team recommends waiting for its workaround before installing what's supposed to be called iPhone firmware update 1.1.1. And since the ROM upgrade may not cause any problems anyway, being a little patient to see if there will even be a problem.


The Mobile Gadgeteer's
Unlocked & Hacked iPhone

In a statement posted on The Unofficial Apple Weblog, the iPhone Dev Team said it believes several hundred thousand people have already unlocked their iPhone's worldwide. Considering that Apple passed the million mark for iPhones shipped only a couple of weeks ago that number seems kind of high.

Nonetheless, it adds, "The removal of the lock, a bug, was a major step forward in the iPhone development. It made the iPhone free and useful to anyone, not only to those in certain countries."

That sentiment is shared by a lot of people. The thinking is: Shouldn't you be able to do what you want with your iPhone. After all, you own it, right?

Here's what to expect in Apple's upcoming iPhone update:

Support for Apple's new iTunes WiFi Music Store, which allows you to buy songs directly from iTunes over a wireless Wi-Fi (but not EDGE) connection; the addition of an international keyboard; and a new Home Button category under settings. This will likely give iPhone users the ability to tap the Home button twice to take you to the iPhone's iPod features, as it does with the iPod Touch.