Duct Tape? Hardly a Solution

Somehow, Apple’s lab and in-field testing failed to discover a glitch in the antenna sub-system of the iPhone 4 (perhaps it had something to do with that lost phone bar visit!). Is it a signal strength display problem or an actual radio frequency/antenna problem? Despite all the bloggers and a contradictory Consumer Reports test, it’s not clear what the problem is and how it might be corrected. Apple has said it’s the display, Consumer Reports says its the electronics—and then rated it the highest among smartphones. Along the way, hysteria has reigned. “People” are demanding a recall that could allegedly cost $1.3 billion, while “others” are asking for a free case. Consumer Reports, in a clever, humiliating touch, seriously suggested putting non-conducting tape over the antenna gap area. The bottom line is that Apple is the company that people love to hate, and when an opportunity comes along, they jump. That seems to be what’s happening here. The accusations that Apple is “arrogant” or is showing lots of “hubris” are way off the mark. There may be some technical problem, but it doesn’t render the iPhone unusable. Hold it without bridging the antennas or get a case, and move on with your life.