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The public Relapse exploit chain supports PlayStation 5 system software versions 7.00 through 13.60, according to its project documentation. It widens the firmware range covered by public jailbreak reporting, but it does not work on every PS5—and it is not a permanent custom firmware release.
What Relapse changes—and what it does not
Relapse is a publicly documented exploit chain for PS5 firmware 7.00–13.60. The project repository gives that specific range; Ars Technica’s September 30, 2026 report describes support up to 13.6 and notes that Sony released version 14.00 in mid-September. Firmware versions above 13.60 are outside the range the project states.
The project describes a browser-stage issue followed by a kernel exploit. At a high level, the chain can establish kernel read/write access and allow unsigned code to run. Ars Technica characterizes the chain as a WebKit vulnerability escalating to kernel write access, with an ELF loader. These capabilities explain why the release is significant, but they do not mean that every game or homebrew application will work.
Relapse is a kernel exploit, not custom firmware
Relapse operates at the kernel level. PSN.GG’s September 29, 2026 coverage distinguishes it from separate hypervisor-level research: the public Relapse release is not itself a hypervisor exploit, nor does it install permanent custom firmware.
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PSN.GG describes the exploit as tethered: after a reboot, the console returns to its ordinary state until the exploit is run again. That distinction matters for day-to-day use; a supported firmware version alone does not make the modification persistent.
Compatibility is only one part of the decision
Staying on an older firmware version may preserve compatibility with the documented exploit, but it can restrict access to later games and online services that require newer system software. Requirements vary by game and service, so check the particular title or feature rather than assuming that every newer release has the same requirement.
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- Firmware: The project’s stated range is 7.00–13.60.
- Persistence: Reporting describes Relapse as tethered, requiring another run after reboot.
- Reliability: The project warns that attempts may hang or panic the console.
- Games and online services: Remaining on older software can mean losing access to titles or services that require a later version.
Stability, data, and account risks
The Relapse README says the browser stage may take several attempts and that the kernel exploit may hang or panic the console. Its disclaimer is explicit: “The software is provided as-is, without warranty.” The project also warns of risks that include instability, data loss, and account bans. Those are project warnings, not claims that every user will experience those outcomes.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.What Sony’s October update confirms
PlayStation LifeStyle reported on October 1, 2026, that Sony released system software version 26.06-14.10.00. The report reproduced these update notes: “We’ve made some security fixes to the system software.” and “We’ve improved system software performance and stability.” Those notes confirm general security fixes, but they do not identify Relapse or establish that the update patches this exploit.
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Sony’s product security page explains how to submit vulnerability information and links to the PlayStation Bug Bounty Program. The existence of that reporting channel does not, by itself, confirm a response to any particular vulnerability.
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