Although jailbreaking is most known for the enhancements it adds to portable iOS devices, namely the iPod touch, the iPhone and the iPad, it’s also possible to jailbreak the Apple TV and add several interesting new features using an application known as Seas0nPass, which has now been updated to support the newly-released iOS 4.3 for the Apple TV 2G.
If you’re not yet aware, iOS 4.3 adds several long-awaited features to the Apple TV 2G, mainly centered around support for Apple’s new iCloud service, such as the ability to watch previously rented TV shows that had been obtained through iTunes. Previously, only content rented from within the set-top box were playable, but that barrier has now been taken down. iOS 4.3 also added support for the video site Vimeo to the Apple TV, to the joy of many low-budget independent film producers who rely on this service.
If you’re familiar with jailbreaking other iOS devices, you’ll feel right at home with Seas0npass, since the process is largely the same. You’ll simply have to create a customized IPSW file using the provided tool, set your Apple TV into DFU mode by holding both the Menu and Down buttons for 6 to 7 seconds, and finally load the customized firmware onto your Apple TV through iTunes. You are advised to read our full step-by-step guide on how to do this. In order to proceed, you must first have the latest version of iTunes, the last version of Seas0nPass (link provided below) and the micro-USB cable that came with your device.
This jailbreak will provide several benefits, such as access to additional content providers as well as an unlocked file system, which can allow for more modifications in the future. This new version of Seas0nPass itself contains several improvements of its own, such as new subtitle options (such as size and color), support for folder cover art, among others.
The Apple TV is Apple’s answer to the set-top box market. First released in January of 2007, and later on it landed as cheaper and smaller Apple TV 2G last year, the product has always had a niche appeal, particularly attractive for those who rely on iTunes for all of their digital media needs. Apple itself doesn’t prioritize developing the hardware, often calling it a distraction, or a “hobby”.
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