July 17, 2010 by Jenny Sanderson
The Apple iPhone 4 has been hit with controversy since it was launched, due to poor signal reception when users try to make calls. The antenna problem occurs when the phone is held in a certain way, which blocks the phone’s capability to receive a signal. As a result of this, scores of iPhone 4s have been returned to Apple as people lose faith in the gadget and move on to different models and brands.
To mitigate the issues with the iPhone, Apple is now offering a free case to everyone who has purchased a phone since launch. The case will be provided to fix issues with reception, by preventing the phone from being held in the wrong way, and reducing signal strength.
Steve Jobs, Director of Apple, presented the offer in response to the iPhone’s antenna issues at a recent press conference. Jobs stated that the reception issues were typical right across the mobile smartphone industry, and commented ‘We’re not perfect’. People will have to apply for their free case online with Apple before July 22nd.
The move is going to cost Apple in the region of £11 million to source and supply the new cases. Three million users have purchased an iPhone 4 since it was launched. Apple is also continuing to provide refunds for the phones if customers are not satisfied with its performance. Refunds will be given until the end of September 2010.
Apple’s iPhone 4 has attracted a great deal of negative publicity which has slowed sales significantly from that which was predicted upon launch. The steel casing around the phone works as an aerial, and when held in a certain position, the antenna ceases to work effectively. Using a case prevents the loss of signal strength.
Related posts:
- Apple loses executive responsible for iPhone rollout
- Palm cut jobs as Smart Phone competition intensifies
- It’s official: no Apple Netbook, no iPhone Nano!
- Court finds in favour of Verizon in Cybersquatting case
- Blackberry Storm costs more than iPhone to make
- Apple launches a new music social network
