In Apple’s iPhone 4 press conference, Steve Jobs admits that they’re not perfect especially when it comes to iPhone 4 and its antenna design.
Jobs said that the antenna issue, dubbed “œAntennagate”, when hold in a certain way doesn’t just affect the iPhone 4. They tested different smartphones out there which includes the BlackBerry Bold 9700, HTC Droid Eris, Samsung Omnia II and even the iPhone 3GS and all experienced the same antenna problem.
Apple is still planning to fix the antenna algorithm for the next iOS release but the antenna design will still remain. To keep people happy, Jobs said that they are giving away a bumper case ($29) for free to all iPhone 4 owners. Those who already own the case can get a refund.
I think people are giving iPhone 4 a hard time with this antenna issue. My brother who owns one doesn’t complain about dropped calls. If you’re left-handed and you don’t want a case, better try it out first if the way you naturally hold a phone will be causing your reception to drop.
You can check out the videos of the tests Apple did with the other phones mentioned above from Endgadget to see what is the incorrect way of holding a certain phone.
via Endgadget
UPDATE:
Here’s a joint statement from RIM Co-CEOs in response to misleading comments by Apple.
“œApple’s attempt to draw RIM into Apple’s self-made debacle is unacceptable. Apple’s claims about RIM products appear to be deliberate attempts to distort the public’s understanding of an antenna design issue and to deflect attention from Apple’s difficult situation. RIM is a global leader in antenna design and has been successfully designing industry-leading wireless data products with efficient and effective radio performance for over 20 years. During that time, RIM has avoided designs like the one Apple used in the iPhone 4 and instead has used innovative designs which reduce the risk for dropped calls, especially in areas of lower coverage. One thing is for certain, RIM’s customers don’t need to use a case for their BlackBerry smartphone to maintain proper connectivity. Apple clearly made certain design decisions and it should take responsibility for these decisions rather than trying to draw RIM and others into a situation that relates specifically to Apple.” – Mike Lazaridis and Jim Balsillie