Home Technology Microsoft Surface Jailbroken: Runs Ancient Apple OS

Microsoft Surface Jailbroken: Runs Ancient Apple OS

When you purchase through our sponsored links, we may earn a commission. By using this website you agree to our T&Cs.

Microsoft Corporation (NASDAQ:MSFT) released the Surface RT on October 26, and according to reports, the device has already been jailbroken by dedicated hackers. The device has restrictions placed on it that limit its functionality. This is unusual for a Microsoft device, but follows the pattern set out by Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL) and other firms in the last five years.

Microsoft Surface Jailbroken: Runs Ancient Apple OS

Interestingly, one of the first uses the jailbreak has been put toward is the emulation of an Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL) operating system, which was never officially launched. Apple’s Rhapsody OS was originally touted for PCs, then for Servers, the operating system never garnered an official release, but some of the technology it utilized ended up in the firm’s OSX platform.

The hacker responsible for this dubious feat is the Irishman, Steve Troughton-Smith. He said that his reason for emulating the forgotten operating system was that Windows 95 was “too boring”. There are more useful applications for the jailbreak which may attract some users to the device.

Applications that have not been specifically designed for the Microsoft Corporation (NASDAQ:MSFT) Surface Windows RT can be installed onto the device after it has been jailbroken. The jailbreak is available to the public, but at this stage it is still a tethered jailbreak.

That means that users will have to start up the program that allows them to perform whatever operations they want, every time they turn on their Surface. The jailbreak is available on this link  for Surface users.

It is hoped that the jailbreak will add usability to the Surface RT, increasing sales for the Microsoft Corporation (NASDAQ:MSFT) device. The company has not yet reported official sales numbers, but it appears that the devices did not perform as well as hoped over the holiday season.

So, whether you’d like to run a non-approved application, or emulate a full blown ancient operating system, Windows RT Surface is the tablet for you.

Our Editorial Standards

At ValueWalk, we’re committed to providing accurate, research-backed information. Our editors go above and beyond to ensure our content is trustworthy and transparent.

Paul Shea
Editor

Want Financial Guidance Sent Straight to You?

  • Pop your email in the box, and you'll receive bi-weekly emails from ValueWalk.
  • We never send spam — only the latest financial news and guides to help you take charge of your financial future.