Motorola's MOTOACTV rooted, running Android tablet UI
updated 10:35 pm EST, Sat December 24, 2011
MOTOACTV successfully hacked to use stock Android
Motorola's MOTOACTV sports watch became the most unusual subject of an Android hack Saturday after DingleBerry developer Chris Wade posted guidelines and proof of a root. The trick involves flashing the firmware with a modified boot image and then using Google's ADB to get root access. Afterwards, it's possible to load any launcher and app, including Google's own Android Market.
As proof of how efficiently it works, Wade chose Android 3, an interface that normally only works on tablets. Because of the 600MHz TI OMAP3 processor and the smaller 1.6-oinch screen size, it runs the OS smoothly and is even relatively usable. It won't play HD video, but it can play regular clips and can even play certain games, such as the quintessential Angry Birds.
Bluetooth and 802.11n Wi-Fi can be used to tether it to other devices.
The root opens the door to versions of Android customized just to the MOTOACTV's screen. Out of the box, it uses a limited OS closer to that on the iPod nano, but it could now use the same features as a smartphone or tablet, up to browsing the web.
