Xbox 360 modders have uncovered a fresh method for running homebrew apps and games on the console. Known as *BadUpdate*, this software-only exploit lets users bypass Microsoft's Hypervisor protections using just a USB key, enabling them to run unsigned code and games on the system.
Modern Vintage Gamer has tested this method and confirmed that it doesn’t require opening up the Xbox 360. Unlike traditional hardware-based exploits like RGH or JTAG, BadUpdate only necessitates a USB key for the installation process. If you follow the steps carefully, you can access a range of homebrew content, including games, apps, emulators, utilities, and custom dashboards.
However, there are a few drawbacks. To make full use of BadUpdate, you must manually patch each executable you wish to run on your Xbox 360. Additionally, the exploit isn’t always 100% reliable, and the process can take time to execute successfully. Since BadUpdate leverages Microsoft's custom Hypervisor, you’ll need to perform the exploit every time you start up your console.
To get started, all you need is a USB key, the necessary exploit files, and a trial version of *Rock Band Blitz*, which helps facilitate the bypass. Modern Vintage Gamer provides a step-by-step walkthrough in his detailed YouTube tutorial, and a brief guide is also available on the GitHub repository hosting this software-only exploit.