Google updated its systems in a way that rendered the Pixel IMS app, designed to activate VoLTE and VoWiFi on unsupported carriers, non-functional. The app's developer quickly responded with a workaround.
Background: Pixel IMS Functionality
The Pixel IMS app, launched in early 2023, enabled Google Pixel users to activate VoLTE and VoWiFi settings on carriers that do not officially support these features. The app exploited an internal API called overrideConfig, normally restricted to apps with the MODIFY_PHONE_STATE permission, to alter carrier-specific settings.
This unconventional method involved using an open-source tool to run as the shell user, who inherently had the necessary permission, hence allowing the API call.
Google’s Update and Impact
Recently, Google introduced a patch that blocked the shell user from invoking the overrideConfig API, neutralizing the functionality of Pixel IMS and causing the app to crash with a specific error message.
The update effectively barred unauthorized access to the overrideConfig function, aiming to protect system integrity by restricting how the API could be accessed and utilized by external apps.
Workaround Release
In response, the developer of Pixel IMS devised a workaround that circumvents the new restrictions. The solution involves an Instrumentation component that indirectly submits the overrideConfig calls, creating an appearance that the calls originate from another process.
This clever maneuver allows the app to function as initially intended, though it remains vulnerable to further Google updates that might close this new loophole, potentially by enhancing restrictions or altering relevant permissions.
- Pixel IMS app facilitates VoLTE and VoWiFi settings.
- Google update blocked key API access, causing crashes.
- Developer workaround bypasses restriction via Instrumentation.
- Further Google updates could target this workaround.
