Immediately after launch of the new iPad, the iPhone Dev Team and other hackers have already announced they have they have discovered multiple ways to jailbreak the third generation iPad.

The third generation iPad, which features a higher-resolution display, a new processor, and support for high-speed 4G LTE data networks, went on sale for the first time around the world March 16.

The iPhone Dev Team announced that four members are working on three ways to jailbreak the new iPad or iOS 5.1, the software running the new tablet. One of them confirmed that a jailbreaking method that was successful for the iPad 2 works for iOS 5.1.

"Busy iPad3 launch day! Congrats to @i0n1c for 2nd JB method, and @chpwn + @phoenixdev for 3rd method!" Dev Team member MuscleNerd posted on Twitter.

Besides the Dev-Team announcement, other jailbreaks have been announced by Stefan Esser as well as Grant Paul and Paul Grifin.

Despite the announcements, the jailbreaks are still in the beta stages and bug-free versions are not yet available for consumers. Initial versions are usually intended for developers until broken components are fixed.

The iPhone Dev Team, a group that offers genuine and FREE jailbreaking and unlocking software for Apple devices, has provided Twitter updates on the jailbreaking effort. But the group has not yet pointed to a ready version.

For those unlocking their Apple devices for the first time, jailbreaking is the process of removing the limitations imposed by the manufacturer on devices running the iOS operating system through the use of custom kernels. Jailbreaking, if done successfully, allows users to (A) download and use applications that are otherwise only available for a premium at the Apple App Store or iTunes; and (B) use software not approved by Apple. Although the practice has not been declared illegal, Apple has warned that jailbreaking can void warranties.

In a tethered jailbreak, rebooting a jailbroken iOS device would need the assistance of a Windows or Mac computer. An untethered jailbreak saves the hassles of getting a PC during booting.

$19.99 for a Jailbreak?

Through its website, http://www.iPhone4sjailbreak.com says that it has software that can jailbreak/unlock the iPhone 4S, iPhone 4 and the iPhone 3Gs up to the latest iOS 5.1. iPad 2 and the new iPad 3 are also supported. However, the download comes at a price -- it's $19.99 per download.

The Dev Team and other legitimate jailbreak providers have always cautioned users that "a good rule of thumb is, if you have to pay for the jailbreak... it's a scam. Period."

To contact the author, e-mail: c.fernandez@ibtimes.com.au