Google Chromecast root discovered, does not run Chrome OS

We knew this day would eventually come, but we didn't realize it would happen so quickly. Google's new Chromecast has been rooted, and an exploit package has been released that allows the ability to erase the existing partition and install a new system image, which could open up the door to a wide variety of hacks and tweaks.

The folks over at GTV Hacker discovered the exploit and have confirmed that the software running on the Chromecast is not Chrome OS, despite the device's focus on the Chrome platform. Instead, the Chromecast is said to be "a modified Google TV release, but with all of the Bionic/Dalvik stripped out and replaced with a single binary for Chromecast."

The website makes clear that this current exploit won't really be useful to the everyman, but it could up open doors for further hacking that everyday people could take advantage of eventually. Right now, the exploit merely just allows developers the chance to build and test software on the Chromecast and "better investigate the environment" of the new device.

Quite frankly, a root for the Chromecast is a great sign. While Google plans to add support for more streaming services in the future, streaming options are quite limited right now, with support for just Netflix, YouTube, and Google Play, with confirmation of Pandora coming in the near future.

This has been one of the main downsides of the Chromecast. With only third-party support for Netflix and YouTube, the Chromecast is a bit lacking, but the $35 price tag is certainly nothing to complain about. It's definitely a good set-top box replacement for some people, but not for everyone.

VIA: Engadget

SOURCE: GTV Hacker