Hack allows installation of Android apps on Nexus Q

Developers have managed to hack into Google’s Nexus Q media player. This has made it possible, among other things, to install Android applications, which gives the device considerably more options.

There are instructions for the hack released on the XDA Developers developer forum. This shows that the Nexus Q must be connected to the PC, after which the bootloader can be unlocked with a special command. Then a custom bootloader must be installed, which makes it possible, among other things, to replace the launcher on the device. The makers have developed a manual through which the launcher of the well-known CyanogenMod ROM is put on the Nexus Q. This allows users to navigate through the installed Android applications.

The hack is possible because Google has built a USB port into the Nexus Q. During the announcement of the device, the internet giant already announced that it is intended to allow developers to undertake hacking attempts. It also now appears that the bootloader has little security, so hackers apparently had little trouble running software on the Nexus Q themselves.

Google announced the Nexus Q at its own I/O event. The device is intended for streaming media from YouTube or content stored in Google’s cloud services. An Android smartphone must be paired to it for operation. However, with the hack it is possible to stream content from other sources, such as your own network. Operation with a wireless keyboard is also possible.