Apple’s explanations for the iPhone 4’s antenna issues

A few days ago, Steve Jobs has explained the reasons for the bad reception for the iPhone 4 during a press-conference made exactly for that reason. After having explained that Apple isn’t perfect, and that its products may have some problems every now and then, he tried to demonstrate and justify that the antenna problems weren’t only with the iPhone 4 but also happened with some of the competitors, such as HTC, Nokia and RIM. Those manufacturers were quick to reply.

Nokia declared they “prioritize antenna performance over physical design if they’re ever in conflict”. RIM declared that “Apple’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”, while HTC said: “we have had very few complaints about signal or antenna problems on the Eris. Approximately 0.016% of the customers”.

Also journalists made interesting questions, like one in possession of a BlackBerry Bold, saying “I can’t get my Bold to drop right now, maybe you can show me how to do it?”. To which, Jobs replied: “You may not see it in certain areas.” Safe to say, the keynote wasn’t well received by everyone, and some claim it’s just a way to alleviate Apple’s mistakes with the iPhone 4.

In any case, at the end of the conference, Steve Jobs has declared that Apple will supply iPhone 4 users with a free bumper or give the money back to those who bought one. All to be done until September 30th, 2010. We have to hope that Apple will work on fixing the problem as well, which is the most important issue.