# Playing Doom on Apple’s Lightning to HDMI Adapter: An Unexpected Gaming Milestone
The question “but can it run Doom?” has emerged as a lighthearted standard within the tech sphere, frequently utilized to encourage developers to test hardware limits by executing the classic game Doom on the most unlikely devices. Recently, a developer escalated this challenge by triumphantly running Doom on an Apple Lightning to HDMI adapter, a device primarily created for video transmission from older iPhones and iPads.
## The Technical Details
In a [YouTube video](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4XCkeN0XuqA) posted by the developer, it is disclosed that the Lightning to HDMI adapter functions on a simplified version of iOS. This is particularly noteworthy as the adapter is not originally intended for gaming; its main purpose is to compress and relay video outputs from Apple gadgets to external screens. Although the Lightning connector is multifunctional, it does not possess the necessary bandwidth for direct HDMI transmission, which led Apple to integrate a System on Chip (SoC) into the adapter.
The developer succeeded in jailbreaking this SoC, bypassing its built-in security features. This enabled them to install and execute Doom directly on the chip, with gameplay being displayed on an external monitor linked to the adapter. This accomplishment showcases the flexibility of the hardware and the ingenuity of developers who leverage technology beyond its primary function.
## A Trip Down Memory Lane
While many users might not picture themselves playing Doom on an HDMI adapter, this achievement serves as a tribute to the timeless legacy of the game and the creativity of the tech community. Running a game that once necessitated a dedicated computer on such a basic piece of hardware is both reminiscent and remarkable. This is not the initial instance of Doom being executed on unusual platforms; in 2016, another developer successfully ran the game on the Touch Bar of a MacBook Pro, highlighting the game’s adaptability and the whimsical nature of the developer community.
## The Wider Perspective
For those keen on delving deeper into this phenomenon, platforms like [Can It Run Doom](https://canitrundoom.org) compile various initiatives where developers have managed to run Doom on an extensive range of gadgets, including calculators and digital price tags. This trend emphasizes a larger cultural fascination with the game and the challenges it presents for developers.
As for the Lightning to HDMI adapter, it is still up for sale, with Apple retailing it for $49, though it can be found for $39 on Amazon. While it may not be the primary choice for gaming, it certainly introduces an unforeseen aspect to the adapter’s functionality.
## Conclusion
The successful deployment of Doom on an Apple Lightning to HDMI adapter stands as an impressive demonstration of innovation and creativity within the tech landscape. It encourages us to contemplate the possibilities of everyday devices and the playful nature of the developer community. As technology progresses, one can only speculate which other devices may soon be put to the test to run Doom. What unexpected systems would you like to see take on this iconic game? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
