The jailbreak of the PlayStation 4 remains a concern for many enthusiasts, whether it’s about installing unofficial programs, accessing system files, or simply customizing the console’s software environment. However, this manipulation is not feasible on all versions. In 2025, only a limited number of firmwares remain compatible with a stable jailbreak. Understanding precisely which versions are affected helps avoid errors, incompatibilities, or permanent failures.
Jailbreakable PS4 firmware: only up to version 9.00
The main barrier to jailbreaking on PS4 is the installed firmware, that is, the version of the internal operating system. Version 9.00 is currently the last stably exploitable firmware. This version, released by Sony in September 2021, was targeted by a flaw combining a webkit exploit (browser) and a vulnerability related to the use of a file on a USB stick.
The jailbreak working on this version is based on a two-step process: an injection via the console’s internal browser, followed by activation via a USB stick formatted with a trigger file. This method has been documented by the underground scene and proves relatively stable, with few crashes once configured correctly.
It is important to note that any update to a later firmware renders this jailbreak inoperative. Higher versions block the exploited flaws, and no public tool has been made available to bypass this protection.
Non-compatible versions: beyond 9.03, nothing stable
Firmwares 9.03, 9.50, 10.00, 10.50, and 11.00 were released by Sony between 2021 and 2023, each correcting previous flaws and strengthening the overall security of the system. As of now (July 2025), no stable jailbreak exists for these versions, although researchers have highlighted some vulnerabilities not yet publicly exploited.
Some recognized developers in the scene (like TheFlow or ChendoChap) have mentioned ongoing research on potential flaws for versions 10.x and 11.x, but no publicly accessible release has emerged, due to insufficient reliability or ethical choice (non-disclosure to avoid commercial or legal abuse).
It is therefore strongly discouraged to update a console if the goal is to consider a jailbreak. Once the higher version is installed, it is not possible to go back, even by attempting a reset or installation via USB stick.
All PS4 models affected by compatible firmwares
Contrary to what some users think, the jailbreak does not depend on the physical model of the console, but rather on the internal software. Thus, the three major families of PS4 can be affected, provided they have retained version 9.00 or lower:
- PS4 Fat (models CUH-1000 to CUH-1200)
- PS4 Slim (models CUH-2000 to CUH-2200)
- PS4 Pro (models CUH-7000 to CUH-7200)
The only possible exception concerns the very last units sold in 2023 or 2024, which were directly delivered with a pre-installed higher firmware. In this case, no method allows downgrading the system.
Before any second-hand purchase, it is therefore imperative to manually verify the system version in the console settings. Some specialized sellers specify this detail. If not, asking for a photo of the settings screen helps avoid any unpleasant surprises.
Can you still buy a jailbreakable PS4 in 2025?
The refurbished market still offers some opportunities, especially in countries where the demand for PS4 remains strong despite the arrival of the PS5. Some independent resellers clearly display the installed firmware to attract users looking for a modifiable version. However, consoles remaining on 7.55, 8.00, or 9.00 are becoming increasingly rare.
On platforms like eBay, Leboncoin, or Rakuten, the prices of jailbreakable models have sometimes seen a 20 to 40% increase compared to a standard console. This phenomenon is explained by the growing rarity of exploitable firmware and the persistent demand from experienced users wishing to exploit the unofficial capabilities of the PS4.
In some cases, consoles sold as “never connected to the Internet” or “unboxed without update” may still be under firmware 8.52 or 9.00, but this requires rigorous verification.
