Gadget-hackers post how-to on BlackBerry PlayBook jailbreak
Roots you, sir
Gadget enthusiasts have produced a detailed guide on how to jailbreak BlackBerry PlayBook tablets.
A video showing the rooting of the RIM-manufactured device was published last week by the same group, without an explanation of how they did it. The new guide explains that the technique, which involves using a custom hacking tool but is otherwise pretty straightforward, takes advantage of the fact that device backups aren't digitally signed.
This shortcoming permits the installation of the so-called DingleBerry tool needed to pull off the hack, as explained in a post by Neuralic here. Users attempting the hack need to have the beta 2.0 version of the PlayBook software installed. If successful, the hack allows consumers to install apps of their choosing from the Android Marketplace.
Neuralic warns that consumers tinker with the device entirely at their own risk. "You shouldn't be able to do any permanent damage, but make sure to backup before playing with anything," he cautions. "I take no responsibility for damage to your device."
RIM is reviewing what to do following the release of the PlayBook jailbreak tool.
"RIM is aware of reports that a security researcher has released a tool designed to allow BlackBerry PlayBook users to jailbreak their tablet. RIM is following its standard security response process to investigate the functionality and impact of this tool and if needed, RIM will develop, test, and release a software update that is designed to minimize the potential adverse impact to our customers," the firm said in a statement, Kaspersky Labs' Threatpost blog reports.
The BlackBerry PlayBook tablet is the latest in a growing list of fondleslabs to be rooted, following hacks on the Amazon Kindle Fire and other devices before it. ®
COMMENTS
Still too expensive
HP Touchpads had to be priced at least 30% cheaper to shift.
But my goodness, it's a milestone that the Playbook could become useful!!
What should they do?
They should either release an OS upgrade that makes the thing worth buying or let people jailbreak them in the hope of selling a few so people can put a decent OS on it.
Will they do either? Not a chance
All in the users best interest...
"RIM will develop, test, and release a software update that is designed to minimize the potential adverse impact to our customers"
Corrected for truth:
RIM will develop, test, and release a software update that is designed to minimize the potential loss of revenue from our customers.
