iTools 4.5.1.8

Overview

Whether you’re looking for an alternative for managing your iOS device, looking for a way to dive deeper into the file system of a jailbreak iOS device, or need a robust iOS troubleshooting tool, than iTools could easily be your answer. The application is clean, fast, and visually appealing. iTools doesn't just limit itself to data transferring either. A host of tools are included with the application from a live screen feed from your iOS device to creating your own ringtones.

iTools has a similar set-up to that of the one that iTunes uses to manage your device. You’ll have options to manage applications, videos, books, and audio all in the same organized fashion. Personally I feel iTools has a much better UI than iTunes which makes it more appealing to the eye. Aside from comparing it to iTunes, iTools has plenty of other neat features that make it worth downloading for your device. It offers plenty of advanced tools like cleaning up your device, checking crash logs, opening a SSH tunnel, and shutting down or rebooting your system from the menu. Each one of these features I found extremely easy to use and very useful for troubleshooting situations.

You’ll also find a great host of basic tools in the “Tools” category. You can associate iTools with .IPA files so that you can directly install .IPA files to your device through a file explorer, create iTunes backups, set an auto backup, convert .PXL files into .IPA files, and create ringtones. Another great tool, especially if you have an issue with a broken screen and need to access data on the device is the Desktop tool. The Desktop option isn’t listed as a tool, but for the sake of the review we’ll call it a tool. It allows you to view and use the desktop of the device within the application. You won’t be able to play games or anything like that, but if you have a broken screen and you want to get access to the device this is an excellent way to do it.

Installation

Installation is as good as it gets, as iTools is a standalone executable that you can store on a flash drive or move from machine to machine. Platforms: Windows 7, Vista, XP, Server 2003 & 2008, OS X 10.6, 10.7, 10.8, or 10.9. The application works with all iPhones, iPads, and iPod touches. We have been testing the Windows version here.

You need iTunes installed as well in order for the program to work.

Interface

The interface is one of the selling points for iTools. It’s incredibly organized with an excellent color pallet. I only wish more applications looked this.

Pros

• Perfect alternative to managing iOS devices
• Beautiful and organized UI
• Loads of troubleshooting tools
• Ability to install .IPA files with jailbroken devices
• Live Desktop option
• Plenty of useful tools not offered with iTunes

Cons

• None

Alternatives

Obviously you can stick with iTunes for your iOS devices, in fact you’ll still need to have iTunes installed for your PC to be able to read the device, but ultimately it doesn't offer anywhere near the functionality of iTools. iFunbox was the previous champion to managing iOS devices as it offers much of the same functionality as iTools. Its downfall is its overbearing ads, messy and ugly UI, and it still falls short with troubleshooting tools.

Conclusion

iTools is the best and most dynamic application for managing and troubleshooting iOS devices I've seen. I initially found the tool by looking for a way to access my iPad’s screen on my computer and though it wasn't exactly what I was looking for, I was extremely impressed with the total package. Whether you have a jailbroken iOS device or not, this application has tons of usability and I would gladly recommend it to anyone with an iOS device.