It is now possible to install homebrews and applications not published in the Store on PS Vita.
The system safety di PS Vita mostly remained integro since the portable console was released in 2011. Or at least, it was until two days ago, when the hacker collective Molecule team has released a exploit that unlocks completely the developer console of homebrew (i.e. unofficial and amateur applications developed for the console), giving them access to the full power of PSVita hardware.
The exploit, called HENkaku, requires the use of 3.60 firmware and to visit through the PS Vita browser un place specially prepared to activate the exploit. The code injected into the console removes the file system from the sandbox (i.e. a protected area) in which it is located and makes it accessible via FTP, which allows homebrew packages in .vpk to be transferred e installed on the console. The exploit also works on PS TV, which allows owners of this system to play all the titles whose execution was locked on PSTV. Other uses of the exploit include various simulators and the possibility of carrying out theoverclock of some elements of the layered console impossible to normal developers.
Team Molecule has considered the possibility that this exploit allows developers of tools to piracy di eliminate the elements of DRM in the console and to make any game playable not legally purchased, but has accepted such a possibility while deciding to do not develop in first person tools that help piracy.
Below are the words of the developer Yifan Lu about.
“It does not allow you to install or play 'backups' of PSVita games, warez or other pirated content. It does not disable any DRM functions. It does not allow you to decrypt encrypted games. Here's my stance on it: I don't care about piracy in any way. I don't judge people who pirate. I will not be police for the pirates. However, I will not develop any tools to aid piracy. It's just as much my choice as the pirate's choice to steal content. "
