With no need for additional hardware other than a single USB drive, the PlayStation 5 console can be turned into a functional Linux computer thanks to the PS5-Linux project. The solution was developed by cyber-security engineer Andy Nguyen, which uses a previously patched Hypervisor flaw to allow access to the hardware and run an alternative operating system.
PS5 runs Steam games and emulators
By installing the Linux environment, the PS5 gets the ability to use its octa-core processor with 16 threads at 3.5 GHz and graphics processor at 2.23 GHz. This configuration is sufficient to run Steam games and various emulators, with support for 4K display at 60 Hz via HDMI output.
However, the project is limited to the initial versions of the console, namely the so-called Phat models, with firmware versions between 3.xx and 4.xx. Newer versions of the system are not currently supported, although there is a possibility that in the future they will be supported by working in a virtual environment, without direct access to the hardware.
Installation requires a USB device with a capacity of at least 64 GB, as well as additional equipment such as a USB keyboard and mouse, as well as a network adapter for connecting to the Internet. With compatible firmware versions, it is also possible to use an M.2 SSD for system installation.
It is important to emphasize that PS5-Linux is not a dual-boot solution. It is not possible to directly switch between a standard PS5 system and a Linux environment, but it is necessary to restart the exploit procedure each time. Also, functions such as standby mode are not available, and some users may encounter problems with HDMI output and content display.
The project is still in the experimental phase and is intended for more advanced users. Although it opens up interesting possibilities for using the PS5 console as a universal computer, it requires a certain level of technical knowledge and a willingness to limit the current implementation.