Windows Phone 7 one step closer to full jailbreak

An enterprising hacker @Jaxbot has developed WindowBreak, an interop-unlock for Samsung Windows Phone 7 mobile phones. While not a full jailbreak, the new code [video embedded below] is the first major step towards allowing users the ability to install and run homebrew apps on the WP7 devices. Currently, the WindowBreak hack does not work on all WP7 devices, but should work with further tweaking from other hackers within the developer community.

The hack currently works on first- and second-generation Samsung WP7 phones, although some interop functionality won't work in full on second-gen models leaving some registry editors read-only. Interop-unlocks are key part of the hacking process and allow apps to reach into the WP7 registry enabling unlimited homebrew apps on hacked devices.

@Jaxbot has called on others in the hacking community to become engaged in the WP7 jailbreaking project. The iPhone has long been jailbroken, although the process, while not illegal, will typically render manufacturer's warranty's void. Although Android has the reputation of being an open platform, most manufacturer's have shipped their Android devices with locked boot loaders helping to preserve their bloatware and that of carriers - unlocking boot loaders is where Android hackers have tended to focus their efforts.

Ironically, news that Windows Phone 7 is one step closer to being jailbroken may stimulate renewed interest in the platform. [via Windows Phone Hacker]

By Electronista Staff