ENGLEWOOD CLIFFS, N.J. - August 24, 2007 - In his first live television appearance, 17-year-old Glen Rock, NJ teen, George Hotz, who is gaining popularity for hacking into Apple's iPhone so it can be used on other phone networks, told CNBC's "Street Signs" (2-3 PM ET), "This was a good use of a summer. I became obsessed with unlocking this thing."

In an interview live on CNBC, Hotz showed CNBC anchor Erin Burnett exactly how he was able to accomplish this complex task. When Apple introduced the iPhone in July, it made the device available only on AT&T's wireless service, prompting widespread complaints among consumers. Hotz was able to unlock the device so that he can use it on T-Mobile's network.

George Hotz

The full story and interview, along with a slide-show and video showing details of how Hotz hacked into the iPhone can be found on CNBC.com. Also, CNBC's Silicon Valley Bureau Chief, Jim Goldman will be blogging on his discussion with Hotz on "Tech Check with Jim Goldman."

T-Mobile is the only major U.S. carrier apart from AT&T that is compatible with the iPhone's cellular technology. Hotz's handiwork frees the most hyped cell phone ever for use on the networks of other carriers, including overseas ones.

While the possibility of switching from AT&T to T-Mobile may not be a major development for U.S. consumers, it opens up the iPhone for use on the networks of overseas carriers.

Hotz begins undergraduate studies at the Rochester Institute of Technology this fall.

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