Okay, I used Absinthe to install the jailbreak the first time on 5.0, but I'm a little unsure on how to upgrade. Do I just install 5.1.1 and then jailbreak? Or is there another way? Also, I read something about shsh blobs or something like that related to the 4S, and I'm just wondering what those are and what I do with them. Oh, and what's the best way to keep all of my tweaks? Am I going to have to install them all again after I update? Sorry for all the questions, just a real noob to jailbreaking, and I don't want to mess anything up. Thanks!
Hi!
SHSH blobs are your insurance policy in case your OS gets fudged down the line and you need to restore back to your current version. When Apple releases a new OS update, it isn't 'officially' possible to roll back to a previous one (ex: you can't officially get on 5.0.1 right now but rather, are forced to use 5.1.1). This can be problematic for new versions which haven't been jailbroken yet, you can imagine.
With that out of the way, just follow the below:
1. Download the latest Windows version of TinyUmbrella (google it), plug in your device, and back up your SHSH's (look up a detailed guide if you can't figure it out - it's pretty easy).
2. Use PKGBackup or write down the names of your favorite Cydia apps & sources. You will need to manually add/install them again in case you choose the latter option.
3. Back up your photos, movies, contacts and other personal effects.
4. Download the latest IPSW for your device manually, or let iTunes do it automatically.
5. Many choose to create a backup of their device; I don't. I like that 'fresh start' feeling whenever I upgrade to a new OS and jailbreak - has its own charm. Hence, if you intend to follow the same path.... start the update and let it wipe your device.
6. Set your iPhone up as a new device when asked (or restore from backup if you prefer).
7. Download the Absinthe package and let it do its thing. Proceed to restore your favorite Cydia apps / repos and enjoy.
Any other questions, feel free to PM me.