Earlier this year, Apple launched a new program called the Apple Security Research Device Program to help researchers find vulnerabilities in iOS and also in its devices. Researchers can apply to get the special hardware in June, and now the company is finally delivering these “rooted” iPhones to those who have been accepted.
Citing their own sources, MacRumors says the first researchers to apply the program were announced today about the modified iPhone. According to Apple, these devices have already been delivered and should be delivered to researchers in the coming days.
The modified iPhone comes with root access enabled by default, which is similar to what the jailbreak process does. This allows researchers to more easily analyze the core of the operating system without relying on unauthorized changes by third parties.
The Security Research Device (SRD) is intended for use in a controlled setting for security research only. Access to Shell is available and you will be able to run any tools and choose your rights. Otherwise, SRD behaves as close as possible to a standard iPhone to be a representative research target.
Apple says the modified iPhones are on loan and must be returned to the company after 12 months if the developer chooses not to renew their participation in the program. Any vulnerabilities found should be reported to Apple, which will provide rewards through the Apple Security Bounty.
Researchers can visit the Apple Developer website for more information about the requirements of the program.
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