The fight against the 360 ban is heating up as hackers start to pull out there big guns.  k0mpresd from X-S has posted a tutorial (confirmed working), which unbans any Xbox 360 console (8955).  The method is old and known (more info below), and is quite complicated so its not “newb friendly”.

Post from k0mpresd :

what you need:

your 8955 live console + cpu key
a 2nd unbanned console
nandpro b + flash cable
xell loader
degraded
1888 fs
robinsod’s flashtool

process:

use nandpro and dump nand from unbanned console.
flash xell and use jtag hack to obtain cpu key.
use flashtool to extract file system.

dump nand from 8955 console.
use flashtool to patch nand dump with kv.bin from unbanned console.
save patched file (patched_kv.bin).

open degraded + 1888 fs.
create 1888 downgrader image (downgrader.bin) from your patched_kv.bin file.

flash downgrader.bin to 8955 console.
attach hdd + ethernet cable and boot console.

connect to live and update to 8955 dashboard.

console is now fully working and unbanned!

More info on this method:

I see lots of sites posting today about a way to unban Xbox 360 from LIVE often linking to a thread made on our forums here.

This method has been known for a long time (since the King Kong Exploit days) and does indeed ‘work’. Basically you swap the Keyvault (or ‘KV’ in short, it stores stuff like console certificates, per-box private keys, DVD key, etc) inside the NAND with the KV from an unbanned console. While technically very different you could somewhat compare it to swapping eeprom data during the Xbox1 days.

However there’s a (really) big ‘IF’ (besides the required tech knowledge) … you need the (unique) CPU key of your banned console – without it you can’t correctly write (or encrypt if you want) the new KV data in the NAND bin of your banned console.
Now you wonder how to get the CPU-key … well by running XeLL of course!
To run XeLL u need to perform the JTAG hack (or the King Kong exploit, but that’s even more outdated) … and if you got banned the last few weeks it means you updated to the latest dashboard/kernel (else you can’t get on LIVE).
And that’s the problem… Microsoft patched the JTAG hack since kernel 849x (July 2009) … so no way to boot up XeLL (= no realistic way for you to get the CPU-key atm) and thus no way to swap the KV data in your NAND image.
And then there’s also added KV protection (hashing) on newer motherboards (Falcon+ ? and kernel 1888 won’t boot on those), but if you can’t even get your CPU-key it doesn’t matter much to do deeper into this problem.
The only way it would work is if you retrieved the CPU-key of your old banned 360 before you updated to anything over 849x. If you did that you probably know about all of this and I’m not telling you anything new
Downgrading kernel is not an option either, older kernels won’t boot as both kernel and CB fuses were burned during the various updates MS performed, and you can’t bypass that without … your CPU-key.

Hope that explains the situation a bit (tried to make it not ‘too’ technical)
On a side-note, it would probably be pretty easy for MS to detect KV-swaps (like HW-mismatches etc).
Side-note2: in case it wasn’t obvious yet those “unban isos” are fake and iXtreme LT won’t unban you (it will instead try to avoid new bans).

In other news, C4eva has announced he is working on a new firmware for the 360 which is not bannable, more info:

C4Eva announced he’s working on a new firmware on IRC:
“[c4eva] new fw in dev/test – ixtreme LT (Lite Touch) – more efficient , minimal patching , all aspects of fw indistinguisable from orig, no more bans, No ETA!”

We do not have more details atm.
As far as we know the 3 ‘test boxes’ C4Eva has running (see here) are still fine (not banned).

[VIA Xbox-Scene and Team Executer]

As previously announced, PS3 firmware version 3.0 has now been released. The new firmware brings many eye candy releated features and improved functions on various other features. You can view the official changelog below:

• Multi-Audio – Audio can now be output to multiple connectors simultaneously. You can set this option under [Settings] > [Sound Settings] > [Audio Multi Output].
• Video Content Playback – During Video content playback, you can now use the right stick to play content in slow playback, fast reverse, and fast forward.
• Settings Descriptions – Now below each setting option under the Settings tab on the XMB, there is now a brief description in small font.
• New Start Up Logo – Upon starting up your PS3, you will be greeted with the new ‘PS3′ Logo.
• Copy/Paste Function – There is now a copy/paste function for the web browser, and messages.
• Internet Connection Speed Test – Check your internet connection upload/download speed. Go to [Network Settings] > [Internet Connection Test]
• Internet Browser Screen Capture Feature – Press Triangle on Internet Browser, then under File > Save Screenshot.
• Custom Remote Play Settings – Manually set a device (such as a PSP system) to be used for remote play.
• New Avatar Support – Support for future additions of PSN avatars has been added. No new avatars have been added along with the firmware. However the support is there.
• “What’s New” – The “Information Board” will be replaced with a “What’s New” section, which allows you to enjoy interactive PlayStation news every time you start the PS3 system. Located under the PlayStation Network icon, “What’s New” displays the latest and greatest game, video, PlayStation Network and PlayStation news and releases, as well as your recently played games, in a sleek, new animated format.
• Status Indicator – In the top right corner we’ve added an indicator bar, which displays your user icon, friend icon, the number of friends you have online and a small message icon to let you know if you have any new messages. The indicator also includes a scrolling ticker that features the latest news from PlayStation Network. In addition, when you press the PS button, the battery life indicator will no longer cover up the clock.
• Friends List – Now your PlayStation Network friends will appear in a slightly redesigned format on your Friends List. Also, messages will now be viewable from each of your friends’ respective profiles.
• PlayStation Store Shortcuts – We’ve added a handy shortcut icon to the PlayStation Store under both the Game and Video categories so you can access the latest content quickly and easily.
• Personalization – Personalize your PS3 with new dynamic custom themes and avatars. Dynamic themes as well as free and premium avatars will be available through PlayStation Store. A dynamic theme takes your screen to a whole new level as it incorporates animated objects into the background.
• Trophies – Showcasing your hard earned trophies just got better. Update 3.00 gives game developers the ability to modify how they display trophies for add-on content. Base and add-on game trophies will continue to be combined into a single list so you can see where you stand in a game as a whole. Within that list, trophies will be broken out into subcategories—base trophies and add-on trophies—that way, you can easily view the percentage of your base game trophy collection, and separately track your trophy progress in add-on packs. Look for this enhancement to be included in upcoming games.

Dashhacker also reports the Open Remote Play once again works with the new firmware, we will report back once he releases an official update on his app.

Overall not too bad of a update this time around. There is most likely hidden updates in this new firmware that are (as usual) not reported, let us know what you find and we will update the list.

[Download FW 3.00 [153mb]]

With Sony ditching the old Spiderman style PlayStation 3 logo it would only make sense that the PS3 boot screen would feature their “new” PS3 logo. A video appeared on Youtube showing off the new PS3 update (probably a early released PS3 slim).

Chances are the new PS3 FW 3.0 will bring this change on the phat PS3′s.

Sony today has announced the PS3 Slim priced at $299 USD. The new PS3 slim takes on a whole new look, is smaller and more power efficient. PS3 Slim will be on sale starting September 1st (along with FW 3.0).

Some notable features of the new PS3 (full list at end):

• Product Code: CECH-2000 (Charcoal Black)
• Comes with 120GB HDD
• NO OtherOS (Meaning no Linux)
• Memory: 256MB XDR Main RAM, 256MB GDDR3 VRAM
• Dimensions: approx 290 × 65 × 290 mm (width × height × length)
• Weight: 3.2kg
  
• 33% smaller, and 36% lighter than previous PS3 models
• Will ship with Firmware 3.0 installed
  

Based off the dimensions I found it interesting that the PS3 was a box. Sony obviously is trying to cut down on production costs so the PS3 does not look as beautiful as  its predecessors. The power plug has changed in this version as well, it seems that the power cables for the PS3 Slim will be similar to those of PS1 and PS2 (external adapter).

The cooling system for the PS3 has been redesigned to allow less noise than before (as if it was loud):

The internal design architecture of the new PS3 system, from the main semiconductors and power supply unit, to the cooling mechanism, has been completely redesigned, achieving a much slimmer and lighter body. Compared to the very first PS3 model with 60GB HDD, the internal volume as well as its thickness and weight are trimmed down to approximately two-thirds. Furthermore, power consumption is also cut to two-thirds, helping to reduce fan noise.

You can view all the images of the PS3 Slim below:

You can also view a video of the unboxing of PS3 Slim:

Definitely interested in this new SKU, although the lack of OtherOS is a setback, its probably a nice upgrade from my clunky 20gb PS3 . Internal images and information to come soon.

Full technical list:
Product Outline: PlayStation®3 (CECH-2000)
Product name: PlayStation®3
Product code: CECH-2000 (Charcoal Black)
CPU: Cell Broadband Engine™
GPU: RSX®
Audio output: LPCM 7.1ch, Dolby Digital, Dolby Digital Plus, Dolby TrueHD, DTS, DTS-HD, AAC.
Memory: 256MB XDR Main RAM, 256MB GDDR3 VRAM
Hard disk: 2.5” Serial ATA 120GB *1
Inputs / Outputs *2 Hi-Speed USB (USB 2.0): 2
Networking: Ethernet (10BASE-T, 100BASE-TX, 1000BASE-T) × 1; IEEE 802.11 b/g; Bluetooth® 2.0 (EDR)
Controller: Wireless Controller （Bluetooth®）
AV output Resolution: 1080p, 1080i, 720p, 480p, 480i　(for PAL 576p, 576i)
AV output HDMI OUT connector *3: 1
AV output AV MULTI OUT connector: 1
AV output Digital out (optical) connector: 1
BD／DVD／CD drive (read only) Maximum read rate: BD × 2 (BD-ROM); DVD × 8 (DVD-ROM); CD × 24 (CD-ROM)
Power: AC 220 – 240, 50/60Hz *4
Power consumption: Approx. 250W
External dimensions (excluding maximum projecting part): Approx. 290 × 65 × 290 mm (width × height × length)
Mass: Approx. 3.2kg
Included *5: PlayStation®3 system × 1; Wireless Controller (DUALSHOCK®3) × 1; AC power cord × 1; AV cable × 1; USB cable × 1

In addition to PS3 Slim, firmware 3.0 is also being released September 1st. Highlights of the newest firmware below:

• “What’s New” – The “Information Board” will be replaced with a “What’s New” section, which allows you to enjoy interactive PlayStation news every time you start the PS3 system. Located under the PlayStation Network icon, “What’s New” displays the latest and greatest game, video, PlayStation Network and PlayStation news and releases, as well as your recently played games, in a sleek, new animated format.
• Status Indicator – In the top right corner we’ve added an indicator bar, which displays your user icon, friend icon, the number of friends you have online and a small message icon to let you know if you have any new messages. The indicator also includes a scrolling ticker that features the latest news from PlayStation Network. In addition, when you press the PS button, the battery life indicator will no longer cover up the clock.
• Friends List – Now your PlayStation Network friends will appear in a slightly redesigned format on your Friends List. Also, messages will now be viewable from each of your friends’ respective profiles.
• PlayStation Store Shortcuts – We’ve added a handy shortcut icon to the PlayStation Store under both the Game and Video categories so you can access the latest content quickly and easily.
• Personalization – Personalize your PS3 with new dynamic custom themes and avatars. Dynamic themes as well as free and premium avatars will be available through PlayStation Store. A dynamic theme takes your screen to a whole new level as it incorporates animated objects into the background.
• Trophies – Showcasing your hard earned trophies just got better. Update 3.00 gives game developers the ability to modify how they display trophies for add-on content. Base and add-on game trophies will continue to be combined into a single list so you can see where you stand in a game as a whole. Within that list, trophies will be broken out into subcategories—base trophies and add-on trophies—that way, you can easily view the percentage of your base game trophy collection, and separately track your trophy progress in add-on packs. Look for this enhancement to be included in upcoming games.

Sony has released the newest PS3 firmware, v2.80. This firmware brings the following changes:

The playback quality of some PLAYSTATION 3 format software has been improved.

It also blocks the Open Remote Play, so those who enjoy this don’t update (no stats on current work arounds for newest firmware).

[Download FW 2.80]

The latest CFWEnabler was just released for the PSP. What is CFWEnabler? It is aprogram that activates the functions of the M33 custom firmware using ChickHen (works on PSP-300/TA-088v3).

3.50 Changes:

- Fixed a bug with the game for the network infrastructure (if you fail to function properly it is necessary to return to change the version.txt in this version, simply reescribelo in the menu)
- Improved system for updating network.
- Improved system distorts the direction of Mac
- Improved system plugins (yes, again …)
- Enhanced the program’s inception, is now a second faster.
- Increase the limit of error in the installation 10.

Grab the full update log, how to and download below:
[Download]

Sony rolled out with another firmware today. From the official blog:

This is a minor update that improves the playback quality of some PS3 format software.

This firmware update does NOT block Open Remote Play.

Download:
[Download 2.76 FW Update]

MaTiAz has discovered a TIFF exploit on PSP’s running on firmware 5.03. The current release version is only for PSP-1000 units, there is a separate release planned for the slim PSP’s (2000/3000). MaTiAz also promises more exciting news very soon and we will keep you updated on the new releases.

You can view the read-me with instructions and technical information via download link below.

[Download MaTiAz PSP 5.03 Exploit]
[VIA]

As if it wasn’t easy enough, it just got even easier. Logan5 has coded quick application (Windows only), that allows you to bypass the PS3 firmware check.

Very easy to do and setup, you can grab it via download link below:
[Download Logan5's Proxy Tool]

[VIA SKFU Research Boards]

This is great news for anyone who wants to stay on a lower firmware yet still be able to connect online on the PS3. Spanish hacker Bakke has found out a way to connect to PSN on lower firmwares, this method works on PS3s starting from FW 2.30+. You can continue to play Home, browse and download files from PS Store and play online as if your PS3 was running on latest update. The tutorial is very simple and once again requires the use of PS3Proxy Server. It is recommended to stay on lower firmware updates as long as possible and not to update to latest firmware for various reasons.

You can view the translated English tutorial here.

If you have a Xbox 360s with a stealth firmware, there might be bad news for you. New releases (such as Tom Clancy’s H.A.W.X. and MLB 09) do not boot on stealth firmwares. Xbox-Scene explains why below:

The reason in short: these games include the NXE dashboard update inside the video partition of the disc. The newer ‘stealth’ iXtreme firmwares check the crc of the video partition and if it doesn’t match ‘wave1′ or ‘wave2′ it will refuse to boot the disc. This new video partition that includes the NXE dashboard upgrade is ‘wave 3′ and support will have to be added for it in the iXtreme firmwares.

Older non-stealth firmwares do not check the video partition, so these will probably boot the discs, but it’s unsafe (alias stupid) to use these firmwares on a Xbox360 you also want to connect on LIVE, as it can/will get you banned.

C4eva and his team are already working on a new iXtreme version for all drive versions. iXtreme v1.51 will probably include full ‘wave3′ support (including for Hitachi drives). v1.6 is planned for later with 0800 dumping for all drives as well! There are no deadlines for the release, it’ll be out when it’s ready and tested, so please don’t ask … it shouldn’t take too long.

[via Xbox-Scene]