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Johansen breaks AirPort Express encryption
updated 07:20 pm EDT, Wed August 11, 2004
AirPort Express key
Jon Lech Johnasen, author of as well as a software application (for Windows command-line) that streams Apple Lossless MPEG-4 audio to an AirPort Express. "Though JustePort is Windows-only software at the moment, it should be only days before graphical software exists for the Mac now that the public key is out in the open. Apple could choose to change it via an AirPort Express firmware update, but it should still be possible to retrieve the new key. This is a huge step forward in giving standard applications the ability to use an Express for audio output," according to one developer.
What will that do?
08/11, 07:46pm reply
Okay, so he broke the encryption, big deal, what does that mean? I can capture the stream? I can write a custom program that streams music to my speakers?
mdshoreboy
Fresh-Faced Recruit
Joined: Sep 2002
No...
08/11, 07:55pm reply
No, he retrieved the public key that that iTunes uses to SEND music to the AirPort Express. Meaning that any app will soon be able to utilize the Express. This opens the door for Linux users to stream to it as well!
macgyvr64
Grizzled Veteran
Joined: Jun 2001
Exactly
08/11, 07:58pm reply
mdshoreboy, people now can write a software that streams audio to the Aiport Express...
brianlaughlin
Fresh-Faced Recruit
Joined: Apr 2003
woo hoo!
08/11, 08:23pm reply
Hopefully VLC will be updated with support for AirTunes!!
retroneo
Junior Member
Joined: Aug 2001
Well done!
08/11, 08:25pm reply
I can't believe Apple hasn't been more open with the Airport Express. Surely it increases the value of the product if there are more possible uses for it. Being able to stream from applications such Videolan would make the Airport Express a much more tempting buy for me. Right now it is a wonderful idea but very limited.
Phil Quinney
Junior Member
Joined: Dec 2001
Job
08/11, 08:26pm reply
This guy is good. I think Apple should offer him a really good job. It would help them develop linux cross-compatability and it would protect their security if he is able to hack it in R&D. Just a thought.
medmuse
Fresh-Faced Recruit
Joined: Nov 2002
WMA DRM
08/11, 08:43pm reply
is this guy only against apple? or is apple's DRM soft? i want this guy to hack WMA DRM so i can play my prince fan club's format.
hardcat1970
Senior User
Joined: May 2000
re: WMA DRM
08/11, 10:25pm reply
My guess is he's only against Apple.
koolkid1976
Fresh-Faced Recruit
Joined: May 2003
Jon needs a life.
08/11, 11:36pm reply
Why does he waste his time on this c***? He needs to get laid.
aristotles
Senior User
Joined: Jul 2004
Fantastic
08/11, 11:47pm reply
I've wanted to use Real Player streaming from the BBC over my Airport Express since I got it, and any step towards this is absolutely fantastic. The same will definitely apply with DVDs and films, sit in bed with my iBook watching a film, and using my speakers without having the cable stretching across the room.
All this is doing is opening the Airport Express up to more potential customers, and enhancing the experience of those like myself that have already bought it. I'd hope Apple will gradually increase interoperability with Airport Express and Quicktime/DVD Player to make all of their own apps work seamlessly with it, but until then, I am indebted to Mr Johansen.
thequicksilver
Fresh-Faced Recruit
Joined: Jun 2004