The Palm Pre just got another little update to its webOS operating system. webOS 1.0.4 fixes a number of security problems and bugs in the OS, but has the unfortunate side-effect of stopping homebrew developers from installing their apps.
Tagged ‘homebrew’
PSP-3000 owners who want a convenient workaround for the system’s tightened security are going to have to keep sighting tight. Datel, makers of the Lite Blue Tool – a special battery that puts the PSP into service mode – have removed the devices from their website, revealing that the company faces legal action by Sony Computer Entertainment Europe.
It’s the old story: company makes console, modder hacks console, company thwarts modder with hardware changes, modder finds workaround 14 hours later. For the moment though, Nintendo is riding high on the ‘thwarted modder’ stage; intrepid Wii users have discovered that the latest Wii consoles come with a new disc drive that renders current mod chips useless.
Remember how we suggested that the latest PlayStation Portable version, PSP 300, might be unhackable? How wrong we were. The security’s been cracked and a UK company, Datel, is about to launch the Lite Blue Tool, a special kind of battery that puts the PSP into service mode.
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According to early reports, the latest PlayStation Portable model may have finally fulfilled Sony’s dream of driving out piracy from the handheld. Hackers attempting to break through the new system’s tightened security are currently completely stumped; that means that running custom firmware, homebrew and, most importantly, copying games will only be possible on the older models.
Nintendo has used its latest Nintendo Wii firmware upgrade to continue its battle of wills against hackers, homebrewers and pirates. The Wii’s unauthorised Homebrew Channel has been broken in the update, making it impossible to install new homebrew software. Previously existing installs should remain unaffected.
While crafty modders and homebrewers are praised by some of the gaming community, they’re the bane of videogame bigwigs. However, SCEE president David Reeves admits that while piracy “is a problem”, it can help improve sales.