Multitasking on the iPhone!

[Jim]

I think many of you feel the lack of true multitasking on the iphone, and will agree that no crippled push service will never substitute switching between apps.

You want it? Then let's get started!

1) Jailbreak your device!
2) Before you download any apps and packages, check the MobileSubstrate version!
Update MobileSubstrate to the latest version using Cydia or Rock (currently v.0.9.2805-1). Important: Icy doesn't see this update!

3) Install Backgrounder (if you're running OS 2.x, you should get the 2.x backgrounder build)
4) Update Activator if you still haven't.
5) Install ProSwitcher, Kirikae, or Multifl0w (this one is your personal choice, the first two are free, the last is shareware. I recommend ProSwitcher.)
6) Configure Activator and ProSwitcher in the Settings.app (my config is double-click home set to proswitcher, single click closes the app)

VOILA! Your iPhone is now multitasked! Don't forget to check for forgotten apps running in the background.
Works well on 3G, and AWESOME on 3GS.

[Thunderclaw]

What is Activator?

I'd actually recommend Kirikae, although I'm going to try ProSwitcher right now.

[Jim]

I'm recommending ProSwitcher, because it works with no errors - no accidental process killing, no crashes, etc. And it's free.
Activator installs an "Activatir" category into Settings.app, that gives you outstanding control over the device buttons:
I have 2-clicks on home button set to proswitcher, and a device shake set to open camera.app - very useful: how many times have you lost the needed moment searching for the camera app? :)

Here are my proswitcher settings:
activation method: double press
become home screen: disabled
show icon: on
app title: on
badges: on
zoom active card: off
close button: on
empty tap to close: off
rounded corners (important!): off
page dots: on
springboard card: off
show default apps: on
swipe to close: on
empty style: text
cards visible: 3
tap to activate: one
themed icons: on
show dock: off
dim background: on
background: transparent

these settings are the fastest on my 3G. Rounded corners are the main slower!

[Thunderclaw]

I think I'll stay with Kirikae, as it switches rather quickly, has a favorite bar for launching other apps and some other stuff.

Activator seems cool.