Unlocking the Secrets of iPhone 15: Getting JTAG and More

🔒The Central Scrutinizer allows communication with the iPhone 15, potentially enabling access to JTAG and SWD interfaces.

🔌By manipulating the power supply line using a USB power switch, the author successfully connects the Central Scrutinizer to the iPhone 15.

🔬Utilizing vdm (vendor defined messages), the author sends commands to the iPhone 15, achieving serial communication and obtaining a debug port.

🔀An alternative setup is proposed, using SWD for potential exploration of the iPhone 15's internals, although debugging the processor may require additional exploits.

🛠️The author shares code and design files for the Central Scrutinizer tool, providing others with the opportunity to replicate and build upon their work.

What is JTAG and SWD?

—JTAG (Joint Test Action Group) and SWD (Serial Wire Debugging) are low-level debugging interfaces that provide access to a processor's memory and control, allowing for operations such as single-stepping and reading or writing to memory. These interfaces can facilitate hardware debugging and analysis.

How does the Central Scrutinizer work?

—The Central Scrutinizer is a custom hardware tool that communicates with the iPhone 15 via vdm (vendor defined messages) sent over the USB-C port. It allows for commands to be sent to the iPhone, enabling functions such as rebooting the device and obtaining a debug port.

Can the Central Scrutinizer be used for debugging?

—While the author successfully obtains SWD on the iPhone 15 using the Central Scrutinizer, debugging the processor requires additional exploits. However, the Central Scrutinizer enables potential exploration of the device's internals and further research in this area.

Is the Central Scrutinizer open source?

—Yes, the author shares code and design files for the Central Scrutinizer, allowing others to replicate and build upon their work. The open-source nature of the tool encourages collaboration and further development in the field of hardware hacking and exploration.

Can this method be applied to other devices?

—While this video focuses on the iPhone 15, the principles and techniques explored here, such as using vdm and SWD, may be applicable to similar devices. However, it is important to note that each device may have its unique characteristics and challenges.

00:00Introduction to the goal of accessing JTAG on the iPhone 15 and the hardware hacking history of the author.

03:39Investigation of the use of vdm (vendor defined messages) to communicate with the iPhone 15 through the USB-C port.

05:20Testing and debugging of the Central Scrutinizer tool on the iPhone 15, including the use of a USB power switch to enable power supply.

07:44Exploration of obtaining SWD (Serial Wire Debugging) on the iPhone 15 using the Central Scrutinizer.

08:57Announcement of a new online security learning platform and code/design file sharing for the Central Scrutinizer tool.