There's been unprecedented attention paid to the iPhone 4 and its antenna issue. When held a certain way, it's possible to interrupt the antenna signal and significantly impact the phone's signal. Apple remained mostly silent on the issue during the phone's launch, suggesting users should try holding the phone a different way, but a Consumer Reports review told readers to not purchase an iPhone 4 due to the issue, prompting Apple to hold an unexpected press conference.
Apple held the press conference this morning at their offices in Cuptertino, California.
"You know, we're not perfect," said Apple CEO Steve Jobs as the conference opened. "We know that, you know that. And phones aren't perfect either. But we want to make all of our users happy. If you don't know that about Apple, you don't know Apple. We love making our users happy."
Jobs embarked on a 15-minute presentation explaining the issue and what Apple has discovered in the 22 days since the issue was raised. Apple's conclusion: the problem is not unique to iPhone 4 -- it's been an issue in previous iPhone models and occurs in most modern smartphones.
There is no great solution to the technical hurdle yet, admitted Jobs. They're working on it.
In the meantime, Jobs reiterated his desire to keep his users happy. There doesn't appear to be a design modification coming to the iPhone, but if you aren't happy with iPhone 4, you have 30 days to return the phone (undamaged, of course) without having to pay a restocking fee. Additionally, Apple is offering a free case -- due to supply constraints, not the colored bumpers -- to all users.
A promised white iPhone will ship by the end of the month, too.
Are you happy with Apple's response?
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macross2012
I love the excuse that there wont be a recall because it would cost Apple to much money.. LOL How about stop releasing a product every 3 months that DOESNT WORK!
I honestly have never supported apple and never will. They make over priced crap that really is more of a pain then its worth.
Nub Salad
Oh man maybe I don't know apple that well. They love making their users happy? More like they love making their users pay to be happy.
I'm on sprint and considering the higher monthly plan for AT&T, worse reception and the fact that sprint has the much better EVO, why would anyone not on AT&T want an iphone? I was actually waiting to see if they opened up the iphone to sprint and maybe I would have gotten it. I probably would have if the EVO wasn't released.
ifonlytobreathe
I think it's pretty lame that they are only giving 3rd party case options. I have a feeling they are going to be crap cases. I have had no issues with dropping calls based on the way I hold my phone. I do however have issues with signal/data loss holding it in my palm to surf the web. It is really annoying. I can even get a full signal loss (from 5 bars to Searching) by lightly placing my thumb over the area in question. Not even squeezing, just touching. I think it's obnoxious that I have to be conscious of how I'm holding my phone to be able to use it.
I don't want a crappy 3rd party case, I want a bumper. They were selling them up until recently and now they aren't in the Apple Store. I refused to pay $30 for a rubber band and now that I should get one for free, I can't.
xplayfan1500
I think this whole thing is a load of crap. If Steve really wants to make his users happy, then how about letting other providers sell it. Then he goes on to say that all smartphones have the same problem. Well maybe, but all smartphones aren't the issue here. It's like Toyota saying well not being able to stop a car is a problem all cars and drivers may come across. Sure if you never get your breaks replaced you may have a hard time stopping your Ford POS (Men in Black ref. sorry) The bottom line is I don't think they know what to do. They obviously have been called on a flaw that they probably knew about before shipping. But you can't stop the Apple money train. Will they fix it, maybe with the I-Phone 4 S or I (for improved). Apple should really be giving people some money back.
Atavax
i am more angry at g4 for gadget pron blowing off the reception issue, then at apple for downplaying the issue. Apple is supposed to be biased up-selling Apple products, g4 and gadget pron is not.
TheBRADLeyB
I have the droid. I love it. I am kinda glad verizon didn't carry the iPhone when I wanted it. With that said I think it sucks for people who drop the money on the iPhone and the shotty service of att to be let down like this.
Hopefully the cases fix the problem for most users.
And as for gizmodo making a big deal about every iPhone complaint, let's not forget apple is suing gizmodo andtook a bunh of their property in a frivulous lawsuit... unless that disapeared and no one told me.
greyfish7
"most modern smartphones"?
evidence please?
didnt think so.
Why13
Apple loves to take dumps on the people who love them most. I don't know who's worse Apple or the loyal followers.
sousamagic
Steve mentioned there would be something late next week on the Apple website where you can apply for your case/ refund if you've already bought a bumper. I'm glad Apple is finally saying they screwed up even if it is on a slightly small scale.
Moye
I want my free bumper! Free the bumpers!
EKG
That is lame. Apple is doing everything in their power to avoid a recall when they know they have to. We have been VERY loyal to Apple, and not the time comes for them to show their loyalty to us and all they can think about is saving money. How the mighty have fallen.
dwildthing9
ok so i have a question how are we going to get the bumpers for free.
UltraViolence74
My iphone 4 has never has a reception prob or dropped call.
maico34
If it weren't for GIZMODO trying to put every little negative thing about IPHONE on the internet people wouldnt had bitch that much!
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