Sony fixes PSP exploit that would allow unauthorised software

Just shortly after the PSP launch, programmers have figured how to exploit the PSP's restrictions to allow software to run from memory stick.  As hackers have also found out how to extract content from UMD discs, this would potentially allow one to redistribute the extracted data and allow others to play the game using a memory stick.

Now Sony has taken action by releasing an updated version of the PSP firmware that blocks this exploit, thus preventing consumers from running unauthorised code on their PSP console.  This firmware will be embedded in upcoming PSP's as well as offered as a download for current PSP owners.  While burning the data on to another disc may seem like another approach, Sony's UMD discs use a proprietary recording format and Sony has no intention of ever developing any form of UMD disc recorder. 

Then
again, even if it came to the stage where hackers found a way to run games from a memory stick using this method; apparently it was tricky to perform the exploit as it required two memory sticks and had to be switched in a certain way while the PSP is running.  It was also risky as it apparently could damage the console if done improperly.

Sony has previously taken a hard line against those who install unauthorized software on its products. In 2001, it went after a Web site that provided software for the Aibo robot dog, saying he was altering their product without a license. Sony officials did not immediately return requests for comment Wednesday on the latest hack. The hack works on PSPs with version 1.5 of the "firmware," the equivalent of a computer's operating system. Version 1.5 is the original firmware version for U.S. PSPs, but Sony in May released version 1.51 for users to download. The hack does not work on the updated firmware. The earliest version the PSP, released late last year in Japan, was hacked several months ago.

While this firmware update may prevent someone from playing pirated games on the PSP, it does not appear to block the ripping of PSP discs.  While having PSP rips may not seem very useful without the ability to play them, it may be just a matter of time before emulators are made to play these rips on other handheld equipment such as some PDA's and possibly even upcoming smartphones (if powerful enough).

Source: Yahoo Technology News