Freeing The iPhone
Leave it to a Jersey teen to screw with one of the largest exclusivity deals in modern technological history. Up until now, anyone who wanted to use one of [Apples superstar iPhones] had to join the AT&T wireless network. But thanks to George Hotz, a 17-year-old from Glen Rock, thats no longer the case. Using software and solder, [Hotz managed to unlock the device so that it can now be used on other wireless networks](http://www.nypost.com/seven/08242007/news/regionalnews/new_jersey_teen_untethers_ipho.htm), including those of overseas carriers. Hes already switched over to T-Mobile, the only provider in the country other than AT&T compatible with the phones technology.
Hotz has posted the instructions for the procedure on his blog, [here], so if youve got two hours and youre willing to risk breaking your $500.00 must-have tech-toy, you can give it a try for yourself. Hotz said that he wishes he could have made the instructions simpler, but that he did the best he could do. Hotz also said that he doesnt want anyone profiting from the discovery. But that certainly hasnt stopped him from cashing in. Not only did Hotz get his name into all the major papers, but hes put the worlds second unlocked phone [up for bid on eBay](http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=230164884672), where its now up to a whopping $15,600.00, with 6 days left to go. How much are you willing to pay for a little piece of mobile history?
Photo courtesy of [elroySF on Flickr]