Introduction
George Hotz is a name that resonates with tech enthusiasts around the world. From his early days as a hacker to his recent endeavors in the autonomous vehicle industry, Hotz has always been at the forefront of innovation. In this article, we will take a closer look at his life and net worth.
Early Life
George Hotz was born on October 2, 1989, in Glen Rock, New Jersey. He developed an interest in computers and technology at a young age and began tinkering with them in his spare time. By the time he was in high school, he was already a proficient hacker, and he began participating in online forums where he shared his knowledge and skills with others.
The iPhone Hack
In 2007, Apple released the first iPhone, and Hotz was determined to hack it. He spent several weeks working on the device and eventually found a way to unlock it, allowing users to use the device on any carrier. His efforts made him a celebrity in the tech world and garnered him a job offer from Apple.
The PlayStation 3 Hack
Hotz’s next major hack was of the Sony PlayStation 3. In 2010, he discovered a way to jailbreak the device, allowing users to run unauthorized software on it. This led to a legal battle with Sony, which sued him for copyright infringement. The lawsuit was settled out of court, and Hotz was not found guilty of any wrongdoing.
Comma.ai
In 2015, Hotz started his own company, Comma.ai, which aimed to develop an aftermarket self-driving car kit. The company released its first product, the Comma One, in 2016, but it was shut down by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) shortly thereafter. Hotz later released the code for the Comma One as open source software.
Net Worth
George Hotz’s net worth is estimated to be around $5 million. His wealth comes from his various tech ventures, including his hacks of the iPhone and PlayStation 3, as well as his work with Comma.ai. He has also worked for major tech companies such as Google and SpaceX.
Personal Life
Hotz is known for his eccentric personality and unconventional lifestyle. He has been involved in several high-profile legal battles, including the lawsuit with Sony over the PlayStation 3 hack. He has also been outspoken about his views on AI and the future of technology.
Conclusion
George Hotz is a tech entrepreneur who has made a name for himself through his innovative hacks and ventures. His net worth may not be as high as some of his peers in Silicon Valley, but his impact on the tech industry cannot be denied. We can expect to see more of Hotz in the coming years as he continues to push the boundaries of what is possible with technology.