As you are most likely aware Apple has recently come under a bit of controversy for its new iPhone 4. More importantly for its reception issue woes. The question at hand is whether or not the new antenna array is actually the cause for the poor signal strength indication. If the phone is held in ones left hand it apparently covers a portion of the antenna which in turn causes a block in the receiver. Even more interesting is the fact that the human touch interferes with the frequency that is being received from the cellular tower. If one can not hold the phone how can they use it. I put this very notion to the test and will try to help add some clarity to this whole mess and hopefully there can be a resolution.
From doing this test last night I have come to the conclusion that it is not easy to reproduce a dropped call scenario ever time you hold the phone in what I like to call the “NO-NO Zone”. When the phone is held in this area it is clear that there is some type of effect on the signal bar indicator when touched with a bare hand. Whether or not this has an actual impact on call and data quality will have to be tested by a third party which is not Apple. I have had issues while on a call and using 3G data at the same time where the call is dropped. In addition I have also noticed while attempting to send a text message the progress bar will not complete until I let go of the NO-NO Zone.
Apple has been very nonchalant about this whole matter, limiting it to a miscalculation in the way that the bars are being displayed as opposed to a more serious confession that there is a hardware issue that needs to be corrected. Apple also states that they will release a software upgrade which will correct this miscalculation and hopefully improve the signal degradation “illusion”. Ironically Apple’s own stylish cases do nothing for actual protection of the phone but rather only hides that when the phone is held the signal bars lessen. If you cover the antenna then that is the solution, either that or replace my hands (The latter I am not inclined to do).
If this was a known issue and Apple willingly created a cover/bumper which specifically addresses the issue and then charges the customer $29.99 + Tax is extortion and should not be allowed to happen. What should happen is that all customers who purchased a bumper should be given a credit, and all iPhone 4 bumpers should be given away for new iPhone 4 customers for free (Until corrected). This is a better solution then allowing everyone to replace their iPhone 4 units for a new model, that will be too much cost for Apple to eat.
This thread will be updated.
I wonder if Apple’s going to have to recallon iPhone 4.0? Look’s like a lemon to me! If you have to think about which way you hold your phone, that’s pretty lame.