Extremely limited functionality, violates EULA

A hacker on the tonymacx86 forums has begun public documentation of an effort to get a normal install of Lion (Mac OS X 10.7.2) running on a Samsung Series 7 Slate tablet computer, a $1100 machine that runs an Intel Core i5 processor and Intel HD 3000 graphic chip that normally runs a touch-optimized version of Windows 7. Currently it will boot successfully off a USB thumb drive, but doesn't do much else.

The hacker, who goes by the handle of "Mad Audi Scientist" and hails from Brooklyn, demonstrates his ability to get the machine to boot Lion in a video posted on YouTube (seen below), but must run video out to an HDTV as the Intel HD 3000 driver for the Samsung won't display graphics beyond the boot-up screen. The functionality of the device is extremely limited; for example, Wi-Fi doesn't work, audio crashes if you try to adjust it, nor can it be used without a connected screen. However, Bluetooth and touch functionality work fine, and he was able to use the Apple keyboard and Magic Trackpad without issue, as well as launch at least some apps (Mission Control is shown to function in the video).

The top-of-the-line versions of the Series 7 Slate shares many specifications with the low-end MacBook Air, though they sell for $1,400 (Win 7 Pro, no dock or keyboard) or $1,700 (Win 7 Home Premium, but includes 128GB SSD rather than HD, plus a dock and keyboard). A comparable MacBook Air sells for $1,200 and includes the ability to run both platforms with full functionality legally, but of course hacking electronics is not always about cost savings or practicality, but is generally done in the spirit of exploration and discovery. The hack does, however, violate the end-user license agreement (EULA) of Mac OS X.

By Electronista Staff