Consumer Reports finds Apple's Bumper case alleviates iPhone 4 antenna issues
Amid the swirling controversy surrounding iPhone 4's now infamous antenna engineering, Consumer Reports, which recently found the reception problems from Apple's latest smartphone to be a flaw disallowing it to recommend purchase, has stated that the Bumper case offered by Apple would solve those issues.
Amid the swirling controversy surrounding iPhone 4's now infamous antenna engineering, Consumer Reports, which recently found the reception problems from Apple's latest smartphone to be a flaw disallowing it to recommend purchase, has stated that the Bumper case offered by Apple would solve those issues.
"With the Bumper fitted, we repeated the test procedure, placing a finger on the Bumper at the point at which it covers the gap below. The result was a negligible drop in signal strength--so slight that it would not have any effect, in our judgment."
Earlier tests, sans Bumper, caused Consumer Reports to not be able to recommend purchasing the iPhone 4, despite ranking it as the top smartphone on the market. That report caused an explosion of responses on Apple's Support Discussions site. Moderators later deleted those threads sending yet another resounding shot against Apple's handling of the iPhone 4 issues. Other experts weighed in on the problems, stating the Consumer Reports findings were not scientifically viable and shouldn't be used to determine your buying decision.
Newer reports claim Steve Jobs had prior knowledge of a possible problem with iPhone 4's antenna and dismissed it. Apple has denied that report. On Thursday Apple released the iOS 4.0.1 software update, aimed to resolve a signal bar indicator issue, providing a more accurate reading of signal strength. Take a breath.
But, if you need to know more, check out this excellent overview of everything iPhone 4 antenna-related, including CNET's report that concluded the Bumper case would solve the reception issue. It is unclear what will happen with Apple in the days to come, though Apple's press conference on Friday should hopefully clear the situation up a bit.
Your best bet? Grab a Bumper case and save your receipt. Your iPhone 4 shouldn't have any call dropping issues and if Apple decides to offer free or discounted cases, you should be able to get it reimbursed. Are you going to get the Bumper case or wait for a potential fix from Apple? Let us know in the comments!