The PlayStation 3 has long been a popular plaything for modders due to the ability to run Linux on the hardware, a feature Sony has since removed, supposedly out of fear of software piracy. Unfortunately, it looks as if Sony is facing the worst-case scenario as a new product called "PS Jailbreak" claims to be able to unlock your system to allow game backups, custom firmware, and all other sorts of shenanigans.

Point, click, hack

The device is said to be simple to use, with nothing to install and no warranties to break by opening your hardware. It is also supposed to work on both older systems and the newer Slims. Simply connect the USB stick, follow the onscreen instructions, and soon you'll be able to dump PlayStation 3 games directly to your hard drive. These games are said to run faster than playing from the disc, and you no longer have to worry about placing the discs in the system to play. Convenient!

Ozmodchips has created a video to convince all the doubters out there and is currently taking preorders on the $150 product. Take a look.

The USB chip supposedly works with firmware 3.41, although it's likely that Sony is working on ways to disable it through the next firmware updates. This shouldn't be a problem, as the device is advertised to bypass forced firmware updates. You'll also be able to install and play homebrew applications, and it has also been reported that you can play online with your backups.

While Sony will focus on the possibility of widespread piracy, this product—if it works as described—has many, many legitimate uses. Dump your games onto a roomy hard drive so you don't have to mess with discs. Write your own PlayStation 3 applications and use them on your system. Ignore the firmware updates you don't want. The latest volley in the war between Sony and hackers has been fired, and it's a big one.