iGame Radio

Steve Jobs of Apple announced today that due to antenna issues on the iPhone 4, all iPhone 4 users would receive free bumper cases. Additionally, he outlined tests that Apple performed to determine the extent of the connectivity issues that were being claimed, as well as gave brief information on the release of the white iPhone 4 and availability of the device in other countries.

In a previously announced event, Jobs discussed in detail the procedures that Apple used to understand the antenna and connectivity issues that both users and the press were relating. According to Jobs, only .55% of the number of current iPhone 4 users contacting Apple Care were doing so to complain about antenna or connectivity problems. He also gave data regarding connectivity problems with other smartphones, such as the Blackberry Bold 9700 and the HTC Droid Eris, showing how holding these devices will also result in bars lost. However, he acknowledged that there was a problem, and apologized to consumers, stating that Apple “wasn’t perfect” and was always striving to improve their products for the enjoyment of their customers.

All iPhone 4 purchasers are entitled to a free Apple bumper case until September 30. Those who have already purchased one can send in their receipt for reimbursement. The offer does not extend to third-party cases, though. Also, anyone can bring in their iPhone 4 for a full refund within 30 days, with no fees for restocking. Additionally, Jobs stated that the white iPhone 4 would be released at the end of July, and that the iPhone 4 would become available on July 30 to seventeen more countries.

Jobs also showed during the question and answer session particular disdain for members of the media whom he believed had blown the issue out of proportion. “We’ve been around for 34 years,” Jobs said, “haven’t we earned the credibility and the trust of the press? I think we have that from our users. I didn’t see it exhibited by some of the press as this was blown so far out of proportion.”

The outcome of this event for gamers, at least, is the assurance by Apple that they are continuing to look into this issue and fix whatever problems arise. A free case will hopefully help those of us who might fear that our gaming habits, especially the way that we hold the iPhone, could interfere with connectivity, and drop our online games in the middle of play. No one wants to have to think about whether how they hold their gaming device might affect their ability to remain connected to game servers. We’ve already got enough to think about while playing, thank you!

One could argue quite well that this is an issue that should never have surfaced in the first place…that Apple should have figured out that the antenna was a problem much earlier and that it got into the wild, if you will, due to poor testing. Whatever the case, at least Apple is jumping up to the plate, coming clean, and trying to make amends. We can only hope that they will continue to do so.

Oh, and Steve? This is one of the reasons that the media exists….to put your feet to the fire. Hope you didn’t get burned too much, but it’s nice to see you moving now.

with thanks from Engadget