New PS5 Jailbreak: Relapse Opens Up the Console

A new jailbreak method called Relapse has been released for the PlayStation 5. This exploit works on consoles running firmware versions 7.00 through 13.60, allowing users to run homebrew software and other custom code. This is a significant advancement compared to previous jailbreaks, as Relapse functions on relatively recent firmware and can reportedly be executed in seconds, greatly expanding the number of vulnerable consoles.

Relapse exploits a previously known WebKit vulnerability within the PS5's web browser. By escalating from this point, it achieves write access to the PS5's kernel, enabling the execution of arbitrary code. This new method is more efficient than prior PS5 jailbreak exploits, which could take up to 50 minutes per attempt and potentially lock up the system.

For those interested, it's worth noting that the jailbreak community has long been working on various methods to penetrate the console's security. However, these methods have typically only worked with year-old firmware versions. Relapse changes this by working up to firmware version 13.6, released in July. This means any PS5 console last updated before mid-September and version 14.00.00 is vulnerable.

The expanded firmware compatibility is particularly important as most PS5 games require the console to be updated to the latest available version. Relapse is thus compatible with more games, including digital copies for personal backups. Additionally, jailbroken PS5s can run homebrew software such as emulators and unofficial "60 fps" mods for older PS4 games. Developers are also working on a full Linux implementation for the PS5, though it currently requires firmware version 7.61 or earlier.