Less than a month after its January release, the Apple TV 5.2 update has already been jailbroken, as announced by Apple-centric developer FireCore this week.
The SeasOnPass jailbreak will allow users to take greater advantage of the second generation Apple TV, with the ability to play videos not supported by Apple and accessing previously locked-out apps and additional file formats.
FireCore, which asserts on its website's FAQ that it is not affiliated with Apple in any way (though its team is made up of self-proclaimed "huge fans" of the monolithic computer company), also released a new version of aTV Flash that allows users to browse the web on their Apple TV and employ a Bluetooth keyboard as controller.
"aTV Flash (black) supercharges your new black Apple TV, unleashing a plethora of new functionality," says FireCore on its page, selling the update for $29.95.
"Don't worry about the technical details - aTV Flash (black) is simple to use and safe for your Apple TV. Installation is a snap and doesn't require any physical changes to the Apple TV."
For those who might find FireCore's update to be more than a snap to integrate into their Apple TV 5.2, 9To5Mac has already concocted a simple "How-To" that should assuage any fears:
1. Backup your settings through the Maintenance > Manage Backups menu.
- Run the latest version of SeasOnPass to update the Apple TV to 5.2.
- Download and install the new 2.2 version of aTV Flash (black).
- Install any desired items through the Maintenance > Manage Extras menu.
- Restore the previously saved settings through the Maintenance > Manage Backups menu.
- That's it!
9To5Mac reminds jailbreakers that because aTV Flash (black) 2.2 is compatible with any second generation Apple TV running 4.4 and later, updating to 5.2 is not necessary. The guide is merely the best way for those interested.
As easy as FireCore and 9To5Mac may make the update seem, users are reminded that any time they are hacking into their devices, there is always some risk involved, and it's best to make sure all precautions are taken before proceeding.
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