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A novel approach to jailbreaking the PlayStation 4 has been achieved through select LG Smart TVs running on webOS, exploiting older firmware versions. This method introduces an intriguing possibility of using a smart TV solely for jailbreaking purposes, expanding the accessibility of homebrew software on gaming consoles. Traditionally, PlayStation 4 jailbreaks have utilized devices like ESP32 or Raspberry Pi, but leveraging a smart TV represents a shift towards more integrated household technology hacks.
The procedure involves an LG Smart TV that has been modified to run the WebOS Homebrew Channel. After the installation of this channel, users must activate an SSH server and disable system updates on the TV to maintain the firmware version required for the jailbreak. The process proceeds by connecting the PlayStation 4 to the smart TV via an Ethernet connection, followed by a series of steps to install the PPLFPwm mod on the console.
This method, known as the PPPwm jailbreak, does not permanently modify the PlayStation 4's system software. Therefore, users need to re-initiate the jailbreak each time the console is powered on or rebooted. The limitation of this method is that it only works with PlayStation 4 firmware version 11.00, and the LG Smart TV must not have been updated or connected to the internet since mid-2022. Furthermore, the television's development mode must be disabled. One of the significant challenges is the requirement for specific LG Smart TV models that support the necessary version of webOS, which has not been updated to close this vulnerability. These TVs are typically those that have either never been connected to the internet or had automatic updates disabled before the cut-off in mid-2022. The technique showcases not only the feasibility of using consumer electronics in unconventional ways but also reflects the resilience and creativity within the hacker community. This community often invests significant time, effort, and collaboration into developing methods that push the boundaries of what is possible with technology. While companies like LG strive to secure their devices against unauthorized modifications, the persistent efforts of hackers continue to find new loopholes.