Andy Nguyen, lead of the PS5 Linux project, has ceased development, including work on a port for the PS5 Pro, following a disagreement over the reporting of a security exploit to Sony. The project successfully enabled running Linux, Steam games, and emulators on the PS5 console.
The PS5 Linux project bypassed the console’s hypervisor using exploits that Sony had already patched in firmware versions 3.00 through 7.61. The issue arose when a hypervisor bug Nguyen discovered was prematurely reported to Sony less than a day after researchers agreed to delay disclosure. Nguyen stated, “I asked them to at least wait for GTA 6 to come out so that people would have the opportunity to legally purchase the game and also enjoy linux.” He explained that once Sony is aware of a bug, it is quickly patched through their bug bounty program on HackerOne.
Jordy, the researcher who initially discovered the bug, used what he calls his “trusty ai clanker machine” and had agreed to Nguyen’s request for a delayed report. However, a third, unnamed individual also discovered the same bug using AI shortly after. Anticipating further discoveries, Jordy reported the flaw on HackerOne. The code remains publicly available on the project’s GitHub page, allowing others to contribute.
The loader currently supports the original PS5 model and the Slim on firmware 3.00 through 7.61. Support for the PS5 Pro, which was under development, will not be added. Despite Nguyen’s departure, other contributors have continued to work on the loader, and the open-source nature of the project allows for future development by others.
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