After arguing that all smartphones have the same antenna problem the iPhone 4 has, Apple has given a solution to the "non-problem". The one we asked for: Free bumpers or cases. Here are all the details.
• If you have an iPhone 4, you can get a free bumper from Apple.
• If you want another case—or Apple's bumpers are out of stock—you can pick another one from some options.
• If you already bought another case an Apple bumper, you get a refund on that.
• The offer applies until September 30. At that time, they will "examine" the situation again, and decide to extend the free bumpers or offer a different solution (hmmm, does that mean an updated iPhone then?).
It's good to see that Apple has acknowledged the problem and they are providing a free fix. Sure, it is a bandaid and the problem—which, unlike Apple says, is not common in other phones, like my iPhone 3G—still exists. But it's something.
Click to viewThanks to everyone who supported the free case petition and our continuous coverage of this and other issues. It's because of you that Apple could not ignore the antenna problem anymore. And thanks Apple for listening to our plea and providing a free solution, even if it's just a bandaid on the actual design problem.
We will see what happens in September. Until then, enjoy your free cases.