This video demonstrates an interesting capability of a cheap, $15 4G LTE router from AliExpress. The presenter reveals that the device's internal Qualcomm MSM8916 system-on-a-chip (SOC) runs a full, albeit minimal, version of Android 4.4.4. By accessing the device through the Android Debug Bridge (ADB), it's possible to bypass the simple default interface and run standard Android applications. The core demonstration is the successful installation and operation of the classic game "Doom" on the router's low-resolution screen, with mouse control managed remotely from a PC. The video concludes by noting that one could achieve the same outcome by simply using a cheap Android phone as an LTE router.
Hacking a Cheap 4G Router to Run Doom
0:00:01 The Device: The video showcases a cheap, approximately $15 4G LTE router purchased from AliExpress.
0:00:10 Hidden Operating System: It's revealed that the router's internal Qualcomm SOC is not running bespoke firmware but a full, though minimal, version of the Android operating system.
0:00:31 Unexpected Capability: Because it runs Android, the presenter demonstrates that it's possible to sideload and run the classic first-person shooter game "Doom" directly on the router.
0:00:39 Remote Control: Since the router lacks input methods, it is controlled remotely from a PC using a mouse via the Android Debug Bridge (ADB).
0:01:11 Technical Specifications: The device is shown to be running Android version 4.4.4 on a Qualcomm MSM8916 SOC.
0:01:26 Key Takeaway: The presenter concludes that instead of buying this specific router, a user could simply purchase a cheap Android phone to serve the same purpose as a 4G LTE router.