iPhone 4

[theogt]

Posting from my new iPhone 4. Pretty sweet. The resolution is amazing.

[theogt]

This thing is blazing fast.

[casmith07]

I got mine today too. It's incredible how much they improved it. The resolution really is jaw-dropping, and it's SUPER fast. It used to take a second or two to process photos with the camera, now it's instantaneous. You can actually snap photos quickly in succession.

Pretty cool.

[Meat-O-Rama]

Loving mine. Incredibly fast compared to the 3g. text is ridiculously sharp.

[Dallas]

They say you cant really pick out a pixel on the screen. Is this true Theo?

How is the HD content?

How is the multi-tasking working out?

Can you test out the built in LED flash feature and maybe post a pic using the flash?


Im waiting to order a white iPhone4 next month for myself.

[kapolani]

Sweet.

I preordered two from Best Buy. A white 16 gb and black 32 gb. They don't have any white phones and only have one left - a 16 gb black one.

I think I'm going to go ahead and accept the black 16. I've had my 32 gb 3GS for a while and only used 10 gb's.

I'll save a little coin taking the 16. My wife is first on the list for a white one.

Best Buy only got 5 phones. Apple pulled product to fullfil it's own orders.

[Dallas]

Sweet.

I preordered two from Best Buy. A white 16 gb and black 32 gb. They don't have any white phones and only have one left - a 16 gb black one.

I think I'm going to go ahead and accept the black 16. I've had my 32 gb 3GS for a while and only used 10 gb's.

I'll save a little coin taking the 16. My wife is first on the list for a white one.

Best Buy only got 5 phones. Apple pulled product to fullfil it's own orders.


Apple announced today that the white ones would not be shipping to buyers until the middle to end of July.

Im waiting.

[theogt]

They say you cant really pick out a pixel on the screen. Is this true Theo?

How is the HD content?

How is the multi-tasking working out?

Can you test out the built in LED flash feature and maybe post a pic using the flash?


Im waiting to order a white iPhone4 next month for myself.1. The resolution is through the roof. I can't pick out a pixel at all. It's a tremendous upgrade in that regard.

2. Haven't tried much HD content other than recording some video. The video looks great for a phone. Better than anything I've ever seen from a phone. The awesome thing is that when I'm on 3G, I can stop recording, put it in an e-mail and have it on my computer in a .mov in under 30 seconds (I'm sure longer records will take much longer to send over the internet).

3. The multi-tasking is pretty cool. I like the quick switching between apps. When you go back to them, they pick up right where you were at. I haven't tried any apps that take advantage of the running in the background.

4. The flash works really well. I'll post pics in a bit. On a side note, the camera (both video and still) is amazing. I took a picture of some normal printer paper and you can zoom in and pick up the dimples in the paper.

[theogt]

I'm only going to post a link because the pictures are so big. This is in a corner in my office when the lights were turned off. It was pretty dark (as you can tell from the first photo). I took a picture with and without flash.

Without flash:
http://img33.imageshack.us/i/1234um.jpg/

With flash:
http://img249.imageshack.us/i/5678x.jpg/

[Meat-O-Rama]

They say you cant really pick out a pixel on the screen. Is this true Theo?.

the screen quality is so good it's ridiculous. It stands out most with text. I've been sending txt messages back and forth to my wife and everytime I notice how crisp the text looks.

I held it about 4 inches form my face and literally could not pick out the pixels.

A: I have damn good eyesight and b: I'm picky about stuff like that

The camera is a huge improvement. The quality of the video and pictures are amazing for a camera. My nitpick with video is that with the tap-to-focus feature, whenever you tap the screen it's very noticeable in the video, maybe it's my ham hands or maybe it's overly sensitive to shaking.

[theogt]

the screen quality is so good it's ridiculous. It stands out most with text. I've been sending txt messages back and forth to my wife and everytime I notice how crisp the text looks.

I held it about 4 inches form my face and literally could not pick out the pixels.

A: I have damn good eyesight and b: I'm picky about stuff like that

The camera is a huge improvement. The quality of the video and pictures are amazing for a camera. My nitpick with video is that with the tap-to-focus feature, whenever you tap the screen it's very noticeable in the video, maybe it's my ham hands or maybe it's overly sensitive to shaking.This. I think this will be the next big upgrade to make in terms of the iPHone camera. They've got the picture quality up to snuff (for phones anyway), but they need to upgrade the shakiness -- some sort of image stabilizer.

[casmith07]

My only nitpick is not being able to use the volume buttons while in still photo mode to take pictures. I wish they'd change that.

[Dallas]

You guys are great. Thanks for the updates and information.

Theo the flash pic is outstanding. I was most interested in it because here in AK it is dark much of the time in the winter and I love taking pix w/ my phone.


I can't wait to get mine now. :D

[TheCount]

Apple announced today that the white ones would not be shipping to buyers until the middle to end of July.

Im waiting.

The only thing that bothers me about the white is how small the screen looks when its off and that it might discolor over time.

I ordered the black and planned to hand my 3G down to my fiancée but after peeping the video quality, I think I'll order a 32Gb White one as well and swap with her when they are available.

I kinda like that it'll hide scratches and fingerprints better.

[TheCount]

This. I think this will be the next big upgrade to make in terms of the iPHone camera. They've got the picture quality up to snuff (for phones anyway), but they need to upgrade the shakiness -- some sort of image stabilizer.

From what I understand that 5 dollar iMovie app has an image stabilizer function, but the sample I saw was pretty terrible, it ended up warping th e video when it tried to hide the shaking.

I'm sure there'll be a built in stabilizer in the next iteration.

[casmith07]

By the way just navigated over here on my iPhone...man the resolution is unreal.

[ajk23az]

5MP camera right?

[casmith07]

Yeah but it's got a different technology from every other cell phone camera that makes the photos better...very cool and the photo quality is great.

More photo examples: http://www.apple.com/iphone/features/camera.html

[Hoofbite]

I assume not but any of you tried Facetime yet?

That looks pretty cool.

[Bob Sacamano]

Dang, that picture is sharp. Way better than my "digital" camera.

[casmith07]

I assume not but any of you tried Facetime yet?

That looks pretty cool.

Not yet, but wouldn't be opposed to FaceTiming someone here. Preferably a girl, but I'll do it with a dude as long as you promise not to laugh and the inordinate amount of Army gear and laundry all over my apartment.

[Bob Sacamano]

Not yet, but wouldn't be opposed to FaceTiming someone here. Preferably a girl, but I'll do it with a dude as long as you promise not to laugh and the inordinate amount of Army gear and laundry all over my apartment.

You're a rough and tough Army guy, and you just came back from kicking *** in Iraq. Don't be scared.:D

[casmith07]

You're a rough and tough Army guy, and you just came back from kicking *** in Iraq. Don't be scared.:D

Kicking the *** of powerpoint is not as cool as you think it is, haha.

[Bob Sacamano]

Kicking the *** of powerpoint is not as cool as you think it is, haha.

It pays the bills! I'll take your job.

[Hoofbite]

Not yet, but wouldn't be opposed to FaceTiming someone here. Preferably a girl, but I'll do it with a dude as long as you promise not to laugh and the inordinate amount of Army gear and laundry all over my apartment.

Is it a WiFi only gig?

[casmith07]

It pays the bills! I'll take your job.

You can have that job, but you can't have my job now (outprocessing). It's way to sweet to give up :)

[Bob Sacamano]

You can have that job, but you can't have my job now (outprocessing). It's way to sweet to give up :)

I wouldn't be able to get security clearance anyways lol

But anyways. Let's see that picture.

[Hoofbite]

I wouldn't be able to get security clearance anyways lol

Don't feel bad. Other sex offenders couldn't either.

[Bob Sacamano]

Don't feel bad. Other sex offenders couldn't either.

I actually got caught selling Vicodin to SaltwaterServr.

[Hoofbite]

I actually got caught selling Vicodin to SaltwaterServr.

Damn. Trap STAR!!!!!

[casmith07]

I wouldn't be able to get security clearance anyways lol

But anyways. Let's see that picture.

Members zone!

Don't feel bad. Other sex offenders couldn't either.

:lmao:

I actually got caught selling Vicodin to SaltwaterServr.

Vicodin is ROUGH STUFF. I remember using that after my wisdom teeth were pulled back in like, 2003. It was awesome.

[Bob Sacamano]

Members zone!

Don't see it.



:lmao:

*Lets that one slide.*



Vicodin is ROUGH STUFF. I remember using that after my wisdom teeth were pulled back in like, 2003. It was awesome.

I want to try some then lol I bet I can hang with it better than SaltwaterServr :muttley:

[casmith07]

Damn. Trap STAR!!!!!

hahahaha trap star.

Speaking of "trap star" - Dope Boys In The Trap is one of Tip Harris' finest singles. Too bad his new singles are terrible. They should put him back in jail for his music now, not the guns.

[bbgun]

http://www.boingboing.net/2010/06/23/iphone-4-how-does-it.html

[kapolani]

Just picked up my phone.

Bada$$

Synced up with all my Google products.

Waiting patiently for a Jailbreak solution.

[Sam I Am]

Just picked up my phone.

Bada$$

Synced up with all my Google products.

Waiting patiently for a Jailbreak solution.

I would warn against jailbreaking the iPhone 4 based on this article (http://thenextweb.com/apple/2010/06/23/if-true-this-leaked-report-may-leave-apple-att-with-a-lot-of-explaining-to-do/) until its throughly proven to be safe to do so.

[bbgun]

Fat cat New Yorkers are paying people $1,000+ to stand in line for them. Can't they just wait for the lines to thin out?

[Hoofbite]

The can record FaceTime data.

I'm definitely gonna FaceTime my stinkhole for those snooping slimeballs.

Who wants to be on the other end of the call?

[Sam I Am]

Fat cat New Yorkers are paying people $1,000+ to stand in line for them. Can't they just wait for the lines to thin out?

People stand out there for days. It's a freaking phone people! At that, it's a phone they will easily be able to get after it's released! I mean what the hell.

The people that actually wait out there like that are literally Apple's sheep.

[kapolani]

I would warn against jailbreaking the iPhone 4 based on this article (http://thenextweb.com/apple/2010/06/23/if-true-this-leaked-report-may-leave-apple-att-with-a-lot-of-explaining-to-do/) until its throughly proven to be safe to do so.

Ridiculous article.

Forced upgrades. Not going to happen.

[TheCount]

You lucky bastards that have your iPhones already may want to check this out:

http://slickdeals.net/forums/showthread.php?t=2095662

iPhone 4 cases for $3.50 to $4.50, seems like we'll all be needing a barrier to keep from touching the sides with our bare hands.

At worst it's a stop gap while you wait for all the other case makers to release the better quality covers.

I'd rather this than 30 bucks for that stupid Apple bumper. They really should have included in the iPhone box since the issue with touching the sides was obviously already known about. I wouldn't be surprised if this turns into a law suit. It's a bit immoral to release a product with a known issue like this and then charge 30 bucks for a solution, isn't it?

[theogt]

I've been testing mine quite a bit. I can replicate the signal meter reducing to a no signal reading almost every time that I place my hand over the two pieces of metal on the left side. However, it doesn't actually affect my call quality or my bandwidth. In some cases my bandwidth actually increased when I did this and my signal meter was down to no bars.

It's really odd. I think they'll just update the software so that the signal meter isn't so sensitive to this type of interference and no one will ever notice.

[casmith07]

Going to wait on OtterBox to release another Commuter TL case for the iPhone 4. But those are a good stop-gap. Not sure about the site though.

[casmith07]

I've been testing mine quite a bit. I can replicate the signal meter reducing to a no signal reading almost every time that I place my hand over the two pieces of metal on the left side. However, it doesn't actually affect my call quality or my bandwidth. In some cases my bandwidth actually increased when I did this and my signal meter was down to no bars.

It's really odd. I think they'll just update the software so that the signal meter isn't so sensitive to this type of interference and no one will ever notice.

Yeah I dropped a call in my apartment today that my 3GS would have never dropped, but my guess is the massive amounts of bandwidth being pushed, especially with today being the official release day.

[casmith07]

FaceTime, by the way, kicks serious ***. I absolutely love it.

[kapolani]

I can't replicate the signal degradation bug, but I did discover my own.

Sometime when I select my photos it's bugged out and will stay on one photo - I can't swipe to view others. I think it has something to do with fast-switching. If I 'kill' the process from the double click bar it will then behave normally.

Put some HD videos on the phone. The screen is beautiful.

Good stuff.

[pupulehaole]

the phone is AMAZING thats all i have to say about that.

[casmith07]

I can't replicate the signal degradation bug, but I did discover my own.

Sometime when I select my photos it's bugged out and will stay on one photo - I can't swipe to view others. I think it has something to do with fast-switching. If I 'kill' the process from the double click bar it will then behave normally.

Put some HD videos on the phone. The screen is beautiful.

Good stuff.

Yeah, all the whining about the signal bug, and I couldn't replicate it either.

That article originated on Gizmodo.com, though, which is the biggest Apple-hating site on the web. They banned me for criticizing one of their articles.

[TheCount]

Yeah, all the whining about the signal bug, and I couldn't replicate it either.

That article originated on Gizmodo.com, though, which is the biggest Apple-hating site on the web. They banned me for criticizing one of their articles.

lol, well Gizmodo used to be the exact opposite, the biggest Apple Loving site in the world.

Then they did whatever deal they did to get that iPhone early, and now Apple puts them in the dark so they hate Apple.

Don't worry, soon they'll start kissing *** again to get back in Apple's good graces.

[theogt]

http://www.appleinsider.com/articles/10/06/25/death_grip_hysteria_may_end_monday_with_ios_4_01.h tml

Interesting rumor of a 4.0.1 software update being available soon to fix the grip problem.

[casmith07]

http://www.appleinsider.com/articles/10/06/25/death_grip_hysteria_may_end_monday_with_ios_4_01.h tml

Interesting rumor of a 4.0.1 software update being available soon to fix the grip problem.

Haha. I'll take it. They're perfectionists...they're not going to force people to buy a case to fix reception.

[TheCount]

Haha. I'll take it. They're perfectionists...they're not going to force people to buy a case to fix reception.

From what I understand the bars dropping wasn't actually effecting reception. Chances are the "fix" is just cosmetic to stop people from freaking out rather than changing any supposed reception issues.

[theogt]

From what I understand the bars dropping wasn't actually effecting reception. Chances are the "fix" is just cosmetic to stop people from freaking out rather than changing any supposed reception issues.It does affect reception in certain cases -- particularly when the phone already has very poor reception. Luckily from everything I've read, while it is a hardware issue (obviously), there is a true software fix -- not just a cosmetic fix.

[casmith07]

I'll be happy when Otterbox releases their line of cases. New Commuter case looks great.

[theogt]

I've never understood putting a case on a phone. It basically makes the design of the phone irrelevant and often they make them too bulky and thick and more difficult to carry in your pocket.

[kapolani]

It does affect reception in certain cases -- particularly when the phone already has very poor reception. Luckily from everything I've read, while it is a hardware issue (obviously), there is a true software fix -- not just a cosmetic fix.


It doesn't necessarily have to be a hardware issue.

I can see something like the code not enabling the receiver to change frequencies. When at low signal switch to a different frequency to get a stronger signal.

Other phones exhibit this same type of behavior (holding the phone).

[casmith07]

It doesn't necessarily have to be a hardware issue.

I can see something like the code not enabling the receiver to change frequencies. When at low signal switch to a different frequency to get a stronger signal.

Other phones exhibit this same type of behavior (holding the phone).

Apparently it's a baseband issue along with a hardware issue, but it's not restricted only to the iPhone. If you take any old phone and cover up the antenna, you'll see a drop in signal.

[WoodysGirl]

I've never understood putting a case on a phone. It basically makes the design of the phone irrelevant and often they make them too bulky and thick and more difficult to carry in your pocket.
Every phone I've had, I've dropped. The case prevents the phone from breaking apart on impact.

[theogt]

It doesn't necessarily have to be a hardware issue.

I can see something like the code not enabling the receiver to change frequencies. When at low signal switch to a different frequency to get a stronger signal.

Other phones exhibit this same type of behavior (holding the phone).It's certainly a hardware issue, but there may be a software workaround.

[kapolani]

It's certainly a hardware issue, but there may be a software workaround.

I'm not saying hardware isn't involved. I'm stating that you could have perfect hardware with defective software and have the same problems.

So, it's not necessarily a hardware problem.

I model weapon systems in real time. I work on simulations that allow our pilots to train jamming and counter jamming techniques.

[TheCount]

It does affect reception in certain cases -- particularly when the phone already has very poor reception. Luckily from everything I've read, while it is a hardware issue (obviously), there is a true software fix -- not just a cosmetic fix.

That'd be great if it's a real fix, I haven't gotten mine yet so to have it be a non issue when I get it in hand would be fantastic.

[theogt]

That'd be great if it's a real fix, I haven't gotten mine yet so to have it be a non issue when I get it in hand would be fantastic.Some hope....

Steve Jobs On iPhone 4: "There Is No Reception Issue. Stay Tuned."

We know that something is going on with the reception on our iPhone 4 devices and some of us are jumping through hoops to avoid any troubles, but according to Steve Jobs' latest email: There are no reception issues.

Gizmodo reader Mark recently wrote an email to Apple CEO Steve Jobs regarding his new iPhone 4 and some of the troubles he's experienced:

Just wanted to drop you a line and let you know that this is the most amazing phone I've ever owned. FaceTime is incredible! Everything is fantastic except the reception issues I've been having.

My buddy has the same issue and he called AppleCare and was shipped a free bumper case. I called too, 2 hours and 3 dropped calls later, I was told that nobody is getting free bumpers. Which is strange because I saw my friends email confirmation showing he was getting a free one. I tried to get one on launch day but the store was sold out. Is there anything you or one of your executive escalations people can do? I love everything about the phone except my signal issues. I hope to hear back with good news.

Thanks for your time,

Mark
Steve replied:

There is no reception issue. Stay tuned.

This response contradicts both a statement by Apple and a prior email from Steve. Apple's statement confirmed that there are issues, but that it's due to how we hold our phones:

Gripping any mobile phone will result in some attenuation of its antenna performance, with certain places being worse than others depending on the placement of the antennas. This is a fact of life for every wireless phone. If you ever experience this on your iPhone 4, avoid gripping it in the lower left corner in a way that covers both sides of the black strip in the metal band, or simply use one of many available cases.

And Steve's prior email referenced this statement when he told a reader to "just avoid holding [his phone a particular] way".

Such confusing messages. I guess there's little left to do except listen to Steve and "stay tuned" for more news.

For reference, as with any other Jobs email, this one could be spoofed. Mark was kind enough to allow me to log into his webmail account to view the email personally, but even that does not guarantee validity.

http://gizmodo.com/5573680/steve-jobs-on-iphone-4-there-is-no-reception-issue--stay-tuned

[Hoofbite]

Every phone I've had, I've dropped. The case prevents the phone from breaking apart on impact.

Me as well. I always seem to put mine in my lap when in my car and then I get out of my car and the phone drops to the ground.

For anyone with any case, you should check out

www.bestskinsever.com (http://www.bestskinsever.com)

They are the exact same things as the Invisible Shield that sell for like 30 bucks at Best Buy.

I've gotten numerous of these and they work great.

[Yeagermeister]

Some hope....

Steve Jobs On iPhone 4: "There Is No Reception Issue. Stay Tuned."

We know that something is going on with the reception on our iPhone 4 devices and some of us are jumping through hoops to avoid any troubles, but according to Steve Jobs' latest email: There are no reception issues.

Gizmodo reader Mark recently wrote an email to Apple CEO Steve Jobs regarding his new iPhone 4 and some of the troubles he's experienced:


Steve replied:



This response contradicts both a statement by Apple and a prior email from Steve. Apple's statement confirmed that there are issues, but that it's due to how we hold our phones:



And Steve's prior email referenced this statement when he told a reader to "just avoid holding [his phone a particular] way".

Such confusing messages. I guess there's little left to do except listen to Steve and "stay tuned" for more news.

For reference, as with any other Jobs email, this one could be spoofed. Mark was kind enough to allow me to log into his webmail account to view the email personally, but even that does not guarantee validity.

http://gizmodo.com/5573680/steve-jobs-on-iphone-4-there-is-no-reception-issue--stay-tuned

I didn't know Jobs was Baghdad Bob :laugh2:

[theogt]

Every phone I've had, I've dropped. The case prevents the phone from breaking apart on impact.I've dropped every phone I've ever had as well (numerous times, of course). I've never had one break, though, in the 15 or so years of owning cells phones. I think they make phones look ugly and I'd rather risk the very small chance of having a phone break than walk around with a bulky, tacky looking phone case. Just a personal preference.

[theogt]

I didn't know Jobs was Baghdad Bob :laugh2:Given the "leaked" iOS 4.0.1, I think he's simply referring to the coming update, which would indicate it isn't a true "hardware problem." The guy certainly needs a filter on his e-mails, because he comes off as an ***-hole and an idiot.

[TheCount]

Given the "leaked" iOS 4.0.1, I think he's simply referring to the coming update, which would indicate it isn't a true "hardware problem." The guy certainly needs a filter on his e-mails, because he comes off as an ***-hole and an idiot.

I think he comes off that way because he is an *******. Far from an idiot though.

[TheCount]

I've dropped every phone I've ever had as well (numerous times, of course). I've never had one break, though, in the 15 or so years of owning cells phones. I think they make phones look ugly and I'd rather risk the very small chance of having a phone break than walk around with a bulky, tacky looking phone case. Just a personal preference.

The iPhone 4 will probably end that streak fir you if you decide to go sans case. A few have broken already including a review unit for Gizmodo.

[Reality]

The iPhone 4 will probably end that streak fir you if you decide to go sans case. A few have broken already including a review unit for Gizmodo.

They broke because the idiots dropped the phone multiple times trying to break it. I guess people should avoid buying real glasses to drink with or eyeglasses for that matter since they will all break it you hold them up high and drop them on asphalt several times. Oh and don't even think about buying a new LCD/LED/Plasma TV because they will likely break the first time they are dropped from a few feet off the ground.

.. and that's coming from someone who's not an iPhone fan.

-Reality

[Hoofbite]

They broke because the idiots dropped the phone multiple times trying to break it. I guess people should avoid buying real glasses to drink with or eyeglasses for that matter since they will all break it you hold them up high and drop them on asphalt several times. Oh and don't even think about buying a new LCD/LED/Plasma TV because they will likely break the first time they are dropped from a few feet off the ground.

.. and that's coming from someone who's not an iPhone fan.

-Reality

I've seen that video and that wasn't by Gizmodo.

I guess Gizmodo had a tester running around New York testing the phone for service outages in the normal 3G spots and he dropped the phone while doing so. His account says that the phone fell and landed on the side before flopping over (or something like that). Any way, it was supposedly unintentional and the back glass broke.

Personally, I don't know why anyone would go without a case. I guess I'm a fan of keeping my high-priced goods in pristine condition. The first iPhone I had, I only had an invisible shield covering the whole thing. After about 6 months the back started to peel so I just took it off. The back got all scuffed and scraped really quickly. So, after I replaced it at the Apple store I bought an OtterBox and my new phone is damn near perfect.

I fully plan on buying another OtterBox. IMO, there isn't a better product out there.

[Reality]

I've seen that video and that wasn't by Gizmodo.

I guess Gizmodo had a tester running around New York testing the phone for service outages in the normal 3G spots and he dropped the phone while doing so. His account says that the phone fell and landed on the side before flopping over (or something like that). Any way, it was supposedly unintentional and the back glass broke.

Personally, I don't know why anyone would go without a case. I guess I'm a fan of keeping my high-priced goods in pristine condition. The first iPhone I had, I only had an invisible shield covering the whole thing. After about 6 months the back started to peel so I just took it off. The back got all scuffed and scraped really quickly. So, after I replaced it at the Apple store I bought an OtterBox and my new phone is damn near perfect.

I fully plan on buying another OtterBox. IMO, there isn't a better product out there.
I agree that anyone buying an iPhone whether that be the newest one or an older model should have a case on it. I have an iPod Touch and the very first thing I did was buy a case for it. I hate the design of the new iPhones .. I think it was a huge step backwards IMO but the features of the iPhone 4 are quite impressive.

As much as I like my Ipod Touch, I have found it too small to use for anything beyond quick email checks and texting and it would have been too large to carry around to use as a phone had I gotten the iPhone instead. I guess that's why I'm quite happy with my normal non-smartphone cellphone and my iPad 3G.

-Reality

[bbgun]

I've dropped every phone I've ever had as well (numerous times, of course). I've never had one break, though, in the 15 or so years of owning cells phones. I think they make phones look ugly and I'd rather risk the very small chance of having a phone break than walk around with a bulky, tacky looking phone case. Just a personal preference.

http://img695.imageshack.us/img695/2929/policestationcellphone.gif

[Maikeru-sama]

I agree, I think it is a no-brainer to buy a case for any touchscreen phone.

I actually have a mophie case, which I was able to get virtually for free.

[Sam I Am]

How exactly does software fix a hardware reception issue? Shock the hell out of you if you hold the phone wrong? :laugh2:

[kapolani]

How exactly does software fix a hardware reception issue? Shock the hell out of you if you hold the phone wrong? :laugh2:

Simple case:

A receiver can 'listen' to many different frequencies.

An algorithm can be created to 'listen' to the strongest signal.

It could be as simple as not switching to a different freq upon signal degradation.

[Sam I Am]

Simple case:

A receiver can 'listen' to many different frequencies.

An algorithm can be created to 'listen' to the strongest signal.

It could be as simple as not switching to a different freq upon signal degradation.

:confused: The signal is the problem in the first place. Holding the phone in a specific position blocks the frequency's path to the antenna. Using software to switch (or not) signals shouldn't improve the reception all that much if at all. The only way to do that would be to switch to a band (like microwaves) that isn't impeded by someones hand. (obviously not an option)

Granted higher frequencies are more susceptible to frequency blockage, but mobile frequencies are also very susceptible to blockage also. It is handled in most mobile phone by placing the antenna away from were the phone is held (read top) since a hand usually wraps around the phone blocking several different directions. Blocking a signal in one direction is okay since mobile towers usually exist in several directions with overlapping coverage. Software does allow that, but if a signal can't get through, software isn't going to fix that.

Obviously, I don't know the full story behind what is happening, but thus far it sounds more like a design flaw than a software issue. I find it laughable that Apple blames it's users rather than accepting blame for an obvious misstep.

[theogt]

The iPhone 4 will probably end that streak fir you if you decide to go sans case. A few have broken already including a review unit for Gizmodo.Doubtful. I've dropped it a couple times already.

I've seen that video and that wasn't by Gizmodo.

I guess Gizmodo had a tester running around New York testing the phone for service outages in the normal 3G spots and he dropped the phone while doing so. His account says that the phone fell and landed on the side before flopping over (or something like that). Any way, it was supposedly unintentional and the back glass broke.

Personally, I don't know why anyone would go without a case. I guess I'm a fan of keeping my high-priced goods in pristine condition. The first iPhone I had, I only had an invisible shield covering the whole thing. After about 6 months the back started to peel so I just took it off. The back got all scuffed and scraped really quickly. So, after I replaced it at the Apple store I bought an OtterBox and my new phone is damn near perfect.

I fully plan on buying another OtterBox. IMO, there isn't a better product out there.I'd rather have a few scratches than a big, ugly case.

When I replaced my iPhone 4 yesterday due to a camera issue, the Genius bar guy took a screwdriver to the glass on the one I was turning in to test it out. He was digging into it pretty hard with the flat head screwdriver (it had a pretty pretty sharp end) and there wasn't a scratch to be seen.

In my opinion, this is the best looking phone I've ever seen. There's no way I'm going to make it look hideous with some rubber case.

[theogt]

:confused: The signal is the problem in the first place. Holding the phone in a specific position blocks the frequency's path to the antenna. Using software to switch (or not) signals shouldn't improve the reception all that much if at all. The only way to do that would be to switch to a band (like microwaves) that isn't impeded by someones hand. (obviously not an option)

Granted higher frequencies are more susceptible to frequency blockage, but mobile frequencies are also very susceptible to blockage also. It is handled in most mobile phone by placing the antenna away from were the phone is held (read top) since a hand usually wraps around the phone blocking several different directions. Blocking a signal in one direction is okay since mobile towers usually exist in several directions with overlapping coverage. Software does allow that, but if a signal can't get through, software isn't going to fix that.

Obviously, I don't know the full story behind what is happening, but thus far it sounds more like a design flaw than a software issue. I find it laughable that Apple blames it's users rather than accepting blame for an obvious misstep.From everything I've read, mobile phones do not put the antenna at the top anymore. I'm not going to speculate too much on if it's possible that there is a software fix or not, because I'm not really an expert on the issue. But it sounds like you're not either (though it probably won't stop you from acting like you know what you're talking about).

[Sam I Am]

From everything I've read, mobile phones do not put the antenna at the top anymore. I'm not going to speculate too much on if it's possible that there is a software fix or not, because I'm not really an expert on the issue. But it sounds like you're not either (though it probably won't stop you from acting like you know what you're talking about).

You're right, I'm not a mobile phone expert. Though considering how small mobile phones are these days, there isn't many places it could go. Placing it where you hold the phone would be an absolute no, no as it would be impeded on all sides. (three sides from your hand, and the fourth by your head when you are talking on it)

The only thing I heard about not putting them on top anymore is when they actually used to visibly stick out on top of the phone.

[TheCount]

Personally, I don't know why anyone would go without a case. I guess I'm a fan of keeping my high-priced goods in pristine condition.

Yeah same here, I take extremely good care of all my gear. I don't see any reason to not slap a case on your phone, there is such a wide selection there is bound to be one that not only looks good but protects well without making your device overly bulky.

But it's a free country.

I often find that because Apple designs such beautiful hardware (the best hardware design in the business if you ask me), cosmetic imperfections like scratches and chips tend to bum me out.

[theogt]

You're right, I'm not a mobile phone expert. Though considering how small mobile phones are these days, there isn't many places it could go. Placing it where you hold the phone would be an absolute no, no as it would be impeded on all sides. (three sides from your hand, and the fourth by your head when you are talking on it)

The only thing I heard about not putting them on top anymore is when they actually used to visibly stick out on top of the phone.From what I've read, it has to do with FCC regulations, which cause companies to put antennas in the bottom of the phone nowadays.

[theogt]

Yeah same here, I take extremely good care of all my gear. I don't see any reason to not slap a case on your phone, there is such a wide selection there is bound to be one that not only looks good but protects well without making your device overly bulky.You can take extremely good care of your phone without having big rubber case on it. I had my iPhone 3G for two years without a case and it looked damn near pristine. Same with my wife's iPhone 3G. Hers has a minor crack across the top, though, because she accidentally threw it about 20 yards in Cowboys stadium when she was cheering and it landed on concrete.

Cases on the iPhone are unnecessary, unless you're using it as a nerf football.

[TheCount]

From what I've read, it has to do with FCC regulations, which cause companies to put antennas in the bottom of the phone nowadays.

This is an interesting article on this subject:
http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-501465_162-20008909-501465.html

Doesn't look like the FCC regulates where an antenna can be, they regulate how much radiation a body can absorb from a phone.

Companies used to get around this with pull-up or stub antennas but now they moved them to the bottom of phones to keep them further away from the body.

Apple moved their antennas to the sides of the phone, hence the problem with reception being more prevelant with the iPhone 4 when you wrap your hands around it as opposed to other phones where the antenna is harder to cover since its on the bottom.

I just tried this myself by wrapping my hands around the bottom of my iPhone 3G and the bars began to drop in exactly the same fashion as we've seen with the iPhone 4 when you touch the sides.

You can take extremely good care of your phone without having big rubber case on it. I had my iPhone 3G for two years without a case and it looked damn near pristine. Same with my wife's iPhone 3G. Hers has a minor crack across the top, though, because she accidentally threw it about 20 yards in Cowboys stadium when she was cheering and it landed on concrete.

Cases on the iPhone are unnecessary, unless you're using it as a nerf football.

I didn't say anything about a big rubber case, there are plenty of svelt cases out there in all sorts of materials. I get that you don't want to use a case, that doesn't make them unneccessary. They've saved plenty a phone, and not just iPhones.

[theogt]

This is an interesting article on this subject:
http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-501465_162-20008909-501465.html

Doesn't look like the FCC regulates where an antenna can be, they regulate how much radiation a body can absorb from a phone.

Companies used to get around this with pull-up or stub antennas but now they moved them to the bottom of phones to keep them further away from the body.

Apple moved their antennas to the sides of the phone, hence the problem with reception being more prevelant with the iPhone 4 when you wrap your hands around it as opposed to other phones where the antenna is harder to cover since its on the bottom.Yup, that's why I worded it as FCC regulations "caused" companies to move antennas to the bottom of cell phones, rather than they "require" antennas to move to the bottom.

Another article (http://www.antennasys.com/antennasys-blog/2010/6/24/apple-iphone-4-antennas.html) from a guy that works on cell phone antennas:

Just about every cell phone in current production has the antenna located at the bottom. This insures that the radiating portion of the antenna is furthest from the head. Apple was not the first to locate the antenna on the bottom, and certainly won't be the last. The problem is that humans have their hands below their ears, so the most natural position for the hand is covering the antenna. This can't be a good design decision, can it? How can we be stuck with this conundrum? It's the FCC's fault.

I just tried this myself by wrapping my hands around the bottom of my iPhone 3G and the bars began to drop in exactly the same fashion as we've seen with the iPhone 4 when you touch the sides.Interesting. I've read people able to do this on the 3G, but you never know on the internet (particularly with fanboys, who could be full of it). I couldn't get it to work with my wife's 3G running iOS 3.x. I've since upgraded hers to iOS 4.0 but haven't tried to see if it causes the bars to decrease. Many reports say that the upgrade to 4.0 will cause a 3G to exhibit the symptom when it didn't before the upgrade. I'll try it with her 3G running iOS 4 this evening.

I didn't say anything about a big rubber case, there are plenty of svelt cases out there in all sorts of materials. I get that you don't want to use a case, that doesn't make them unneccessary. They've saved plenty a phone, and not just iPhones.The only thing I'd consider is the ultra-thin clear protectors. But the only risk that even remotely worries me is the shattering glass and I'm not sure those thin protectors would prevent that.

[TheCount]

I'm running iOS 4 on my 3G for what that's worth, never tried it before the upgrade.

[Hoofbite]

I'm running iOS 4 on my 3G for what that's worth, never tried it before the upgrade.

I think iOS 4 is running way slow on my 3G.

[TheCount]

http://gawker.com/5574781/an-iphone-class-action-suit-is-in-the-works

Saw this one coming from miles away, I'm sure Apple did as well and already had their lawyers preparing.

I think this will probably end with all phones coming with a bumper and those that got bumpers eligable for a rebate.

And to be honest, I think that should be the case anyway and Apple should take those steps on their own. I still find it a bit crazy they are selling those things for 30 bucks a pop.

[Reality]

Any legal action taken so quickly (just days) after launch is simply to gain publicity for the plaintiff .. in this case a firm well known for class action lawsuits.

Next I'm sure they'll sue Google for inaccurate search results .. any large company with deep pockets that will generate a lot of free publicity will do ..


-Reality

[Bob Sacamano]

:flex:

[theogt]

http://gawker.com/5574781/an-iphone-class-action-suit-is-in-the-works

Saw this one coming from miles away, I'm sure Apple did as well and already had their lawyers preparing.

I think this will probably end with all phones coming with a bumper and those that got bumpers eligable for a rebate.

And to be honest, I think that should be the case anyway and Apple should take those steps on their own. I still find it a bit crazy they are selling those things for 30 bucks a pop.Or they'll just update the software and fix the "issue." And, yes, this litigation is just a publicity stunt.

[TheCount]

Any legal action taken so quickly (just days) after launch is simply to gain publicity for the plaintiff .. in this case a firm well known for class action lawsuits.

Next I'm sure they'll sue Google for inaccurate search results .. any large company with deep pockets that will generate a lot of free publicity will do ..


-Reality

It's a class action suit, so it is filed by some law firm on behalf of the customers, happens all the time.

I doubt it's a publicity stunt, more of a money grab.

I remember getting a random check in the mail for like 30 bucks when some firm sued Epson because their printers were reporting no ink using cartridges that still had ink in them. I didn't have to do a thing, it was kind of strange.

[Reality]

It's a class action suit, so it is filed by some law firm on behalf of the customers, happens all the time.

I doubt it's a publicity stunt, more of a money grab.

I remember getting a random check in the mail for like 30 bucks when some firm sued Epson because their printers were reporting no ink using cartridges that still had ink in them. I didn't have to do a thing, it was kind of strange.

I am quite familiar with class action suits and most class action suits are filed prior to having a mass collection of plaintiffs (affected people) on board. Companies like this sit around waiting for any heavily media exposed complaints by a large number of people and they file a lawsuit knowing there will be some idiots out there willing to sign on and further validate their noble justification for filing the suit.

However, this case though has nothing to do with money because a class action suit filed days after launch has no chance of having any type of monetary restitution ordered by a judgement. Class action suits over faulty equipment only yield restitution or settlements when the products cause injury or when the company does not attempt to resolve the issues in a timely manner. Apple will have resolved the iPhone 4 problems either through software updates, replacement units or free recall/repairs long before any class action suit gets anywhere close to a judgement or settlement.

Most class action suits are about settlement offers .. this one is all about publicity, plain and simple.

-Reality

[Reality]

I must say I'm quite impressed with the white bumper on the iPhone 4 :D

http://i956.photobucket.com/albums/ae45/albert1028/White%20Bumper%20and%20iPhone%204/_BAH5419.jpg

For more images, visit:
http://forums.macrumors.com/showthread.php?p=10373201#post10373201


-Reality

[theogt]

Yeah, that's not too shabby. I still prefer the metal exterior, though.

[casmith07]

The bumpers actually don't look terrible. I'm considering trying a black one.

I just don't like the idea of my phone hitting the ground and cracking, because I'll inevitably drop it.

[Reality]

The bumpers actually don't look terrible. I'm considering trying a black one.

I just don't like the idea of my phone hitting the ground and cracking, because I'll inevitably drop it.

Me too *laughs*

I really liked the old iPhone design and hate that they changed it. Before it was a cool looking phone and now it looks more like every other touch-screen phone.

-Reality

[theogt]

Me too *laughs*

I really liked the old iPhone design and hate that they changed it. Before it was a cool looking phone and now it looks more like every other touch-screen phone.

-RealitySuch as?

There's not really anything close to this design.

[TheCount]

Yeah, that's not too shabby. I still prefer the metal exterior, though.

Yeah, I'm going white bumper as well, but they are sold out till mid July online. Gotta hit up the 5th Av store. I just got my email, my phone should be shipping in the next 24 hours! So stoked.

I get you though, I'm loving the industrial design of the phone and with the bumper off, all that detailing disappears, unfortunately.

[Meat-O-Rama]

The bumpers actually don't look terrible. I'm considering trying a black one.

I just don't like the idea of my phone hitting the ground and cracking, because I'll inevitably drop it.


I've got the black and can post pics if you like.

[theogt]

Yeah, I'm going white bumper as well, but they are sold out till mid July online. Gotta hit up the 5th Av store. I just got my email, my phone should be shipping in the next 24 hours! So stoked.

I get you though, I'm loving the industrial design of the phone and with the bumper off, all that detailing disappears, unfortunately.The metal has a really nice feel in your hand, too. It feels more sturdy. The old iPhones feel so cheap and bulky now.

[Reality]

The metal has a really nice feel in your hand, too. It feels more sturdy. The old iPhones feel so cheap and bulky now.

If Apple had been smart, they would have given it a side/back case like the iPad. That would have been an awesome iPhone case. I will admit that the old iPhone metal side/back being shiny easily showed finger prints and scratches and made the phone look old and worn over time even if you took care of it. My iPod Touch only looks new because it's been in a case since the day I bought it. I really think the glass back on the iPhone 4 was a huge mistake by Apple.

-Reality

[theogt]

If Apple had been smart, they would have given it a side/back case like the iPad. That would have been an awesome iPhone case. I will admit that the old iPhone metal side/back being shiny easily showed finger prints and scratches and made the phone look old and worn over time even if you took care of it. My iPod Touch only looks new because it's been in a case since the day I bought it. I really think the glass back on the iPhone 4 was a huge mistake by Apple.

-RealityNah, I love the glass on the back. It's unusually smooth to the touch.

[Reality]

Nah, I love the glass on the back. It's unusually smooth to the touch.

The new iPhone 4 still looks to me just like every other touch screen smartphone out there. Yes it has glass on the back which is a huge negative to me, but beyond that, when I see them side-by-side with other android based phones, it looks no different outside of a silver side which would have been a lot more impressive had it covered the back side as well.

To me putting a glass backside on the iPhone 4 would be the equivalent of having a glass screen on the back of an LCD/LED TV or a the outside top/bottom of a laptop. It's just pointless and increases the chances it of damage should you drop it.

The iOS and feature set of the iPhone 4 is really impressive but the design to me took a big step backwards. I'll wait for the next revision which I can almost guarantee you will not have a glass backside on it. Unfortunately, it will likely be 2011 before that happens.

-Reality

[Hoofbite]

The bumpers actually don't look terrible. I'm considering trying a black one.

I just don't like the idea of my phone hitting the ground and cracking, because I'll inevitably drop it.

Flat black, baby.

Murdered out!

[TheCount]

http://gizmodo.com/5575347/video-clearly-shows-antenna-defect-on-iphone-4-web-browser

Looks like just touching the antenna area can completely screw up data speed, Gizmodo says about 40% of people are effected, and here I thought it was all devices.

It kind of strikes me as odd that it would affect some phones and not others.

There's a petition now to get Apple to either fix the problem or throw in free bumpers. I'd prefer a fix.

http://gizmodo.com/5573177/apple-do-the-right-thing-and-give-away-the-iphone-bumpers

[theogt]

http://gizmodo.com/5575347/video-clearly-shows-antenna-defect-on-iphone-4-web-browser

Looks like just touching the antenna area can completely screw up data speed, Gizmodo says about 40% of people are effected, and here I thought it was all devices.

It kind of strikes me as odd that it would affect some phones and not others.

There's a petition now to get Apple to either fix the problem or throw in free bumpers. I'd prefer a fix.

http://gizmodo.com/5573177/apple-do-the-right-thing-and-give-away-the-iphone-bumpersIf true, then the rumors that it's a manufacturing defect in which some antennas did not receive a special coating seem more likely. Or it's somehow a software glitch depending on localized network issues.

[Reality]

It kind of strikes me as odd that it would affect some phones and not others.
I suspect that iPhone 4 users with either really strong signals or physically closer to cell towers are less likely to experience the effect.

As a side note .. most people do not realize that the signal meters on their phones show full when the signal they are receiving is considered strong enough for full phone usage. Meaning, one person in one area of town could have a full signal/bars while another person in another area of town could also have a full signal/bars but the second person's signal strength could be 2+ times stronger than the first person's signal strength.

A similar analogy would be two people listening to the same radio station in their car. Both people could have solid static-free signals but if one is located right next to the radio's broadcast tower while the other is on the other side of town, the person on the other side of town would be more susceptible to static and/or signal loss from outside interference.

There's a petition now to get Apple to either fix the problem or throw in free bumpers. I'd prefer a fix.

I would definitely want the phone fixed or replaced. While I would already have a cover of some sort on my phone, I would not want to be forced to have one on it simply to compensate for a design flaw. Now all of that of course is assuming the problem is a design flaw and cannot be corrected with a software update.

-Reality

[theogt]

http://gizmodo.com/5575302/this-is-the-safest-and-most-beautiful-iphone-4-money-can-buy

Now this would be cool.

http://cache.gawkerassets.com/assets/images/4/2010/06/500x_col_iphone_man.jpg

[Reality]

http://gizmodo.com/5575302/this-is-the-safest-and-most-beautiful-iphone-4-money-can-buy

Now this would be cool.

http://cache.gawkerassets.com/assets/images/4/2010/06/500x_col_iphone_man.jpg

:D :D

-Reality

[Sam I Am]

http://gizmodo.com/5575302/this-is-the-safest-and-most-beautiful-iphone-4-money-can-buy

Now this would be cool.

http://cache.gawkerassets.com/assets/images/4/2010/06/500x_col_iphone_man.jpg

Reminds me of....

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3215/2880004532_684736ec95_m.jpg


SEXY! :D

[Heisenberg]

I like the design aspect of the iPhone 4, but as clumsy as I am, I could never have a phone with that much glass on it.

I currently have a Motorola Droid. This thing could be used as a weapon. I've already dropped it multiple times and nothin'. I love it.

[TheCount]

http://gizmodo.com/5575302/this-is-the-safest-and-most-beautiful-iphone-4-money-can-buy

Now this would be cool.

http://cache.gawkerassets.com/assets/images/4/2010/06/500x_col_iphone_man.jpg

I'm actually pretty shocked no hard ware maker has used wood yet in their phones.

[TheCount]

o5JQdgvzuL0

Here's a "commercial" Ducati shot entirely on the iPhone 4's camera.

One thing that bugs me is that the camera makes some shots look amazing, especially when there's ample light.

But once shadows come into play, things get a little trickier.

The video was edited on a computer though and image stabilization software was utilized to quiet all the hand shaking.

It's impressive, but not spectacular. Pretty darn good for a phone no matter how you slice it though.

[theogt]

Here's a video basically proving that it's an issue of "shorting" the two antennas. I have no idea how you could possibly fix this with a software upgrade. I think the solution is simply making the gap between the two antennas bigger. If you try to "short" them by connecting them from an inch apart, it doesn't work. It's beyond bizarre that Apple didn't consider this/fix this during the design process.

kgouzUMlQpY

[Reality]

You could update the software to make it show full bars whether you have a signal or not :D :D

-Reality

[Eric_Boyer]

You could update the software to make it show full bars whether you have a signal or not :D :D

-Reality

my bars go to eleven. most blokes only have three bars

[xout]

I get the signal issue when the phone is naked, but since I've had a case I haven't had any problems with the phone at all.

I love the retina display, and the quickness and reaction time compared to my 3g is amazing.

http://i49.tinypic.com/15ott0k.jpg

http://i49.tinypic.com/15ott0k.jpg

[casmith07]

For games look up Canabalt. Love it.

Oh and Rope-N-Fly 2. GREAT game.

[Sam I Am]

Steve Jobs said it wasn't a hardware problem, it was a user problem due to the way they were holding the phone.

What do you know! Three new positions just opened up at Apple. :laugh2:

Antenna engineer job position 1 (http://jobs.apple.com/index.ajs?BID=1&method=mExternal.showJob&RID=55852&CurrentPage=1) Antenna engineer job position 2 (http://jobs.apple.com/index.ajs?BID=1&method=mExternal.showJob&RID=55849&CurrentPage=1) Antenna engineer job position 3 (http://jobs.apple.com/index.ajs?BID=1&method=mExternal.showJob&RID=55854&CurrentPage=1)

[casmith07]

No different from the "CDMA engineer" jobs they had open up years ago, and still no Verizon iPhone.

[Sam I Am]

No different from the "CDMA engineer" jobs they had open up years ago, and still no Verizon iPhone.

What are you saying? They are going to hire antenna engineers and not fix their antenna issues? :D

[theogt]

No different from the "CDMA engineer" jobs they had open up years ago, and still no Verizon iPhone.Bloomberg is reporting Verizon will have iPhones in early 2011.

[TheCount]

Steve Jobs said it wasn't a hardware problem, it was a user problem due to the way they were holding the phone.

What do you know! Three new positions just opened up at Apple. :laugh2:

Antenna engineer job position 1 (http://jobs.apple.com/index.ajs?BID=1&method=mExternal.showJob&RID=55852&CurrentPage=1)
Antenna engineer job position 2 (http://jobs.apple.com/index.ajs?BID=1&method=mExternal.showJob&RID=55849&CurrentPage=1)
Antenna engineer job position 3 (http://jobs.apple.com/index.ajs?BID=1&method=mExternal.showJob&RID=55854&CurrentPage=1)

Personally I think its to grant them credibility in the eventual law suits. You don't want to go on the defense stand with these issues confirmed and having no proof you've done anything to try and fix the issue.

At least you can say hey, we hired 3 to 4 new engineers just for antenna issues. We aren't being negligent.

Especially after Jobs comes out and says it's an issue with how your hand is built, not how the phone is built.

[theogt]

Personally I think its to grant them credibility in the eventual law suits. You don't want to go on the defense stand with these issues confirmed and having no proof you've done anything to try and fix the issue.

At least you can say hey, we hired 3 to 4 new engineers just for antenna issues. We aren't being negligent.

Especially after Jobs comes out and says it's an issue with how your hand is built, not how the phone is built.I think it's just pure coincidence. If anything, this would hurt them in litigation (i.e., evidence that they're knowingly continuing to sell faulty products).

[theogt]

http://www.anandtech.com/show/3794/the-iphone-4-review/2

This stuff is getting pretty wonky.

[casmith07]

Bloomberg is reporting Verizon will have iPhones in early 2011.

:cop:

I'll believe it when I see it. I'm so sick of the Verizon iPhone rumors.

[theogt]

:cop:

I'll believe it when I see it. I'm so sick of the Verizon iPhone rumors.Bloomberg isn't like some blog speculation.

[TheCount]

http://www.anandtech.com/show/3794/the-iphone-4-review/2

This stuff is getting pretty wonky.

Long read, but one thing I took away from it is that a case really is the answer which kind of makes me wonder why Apple didn't just coat the sides with some thin film or plastic.

I still think it's impossible they didn't notice this before they released it. There's just no way.

And the fact that they would announce bumpers for it, having never done anything like that before, makes the whole thing stink.

They knew about the issue and their bright idea was to charge customers 30 bucks for a fix? That's downright criminal.

[theogt]

Long read, but one thing I took away from it is that a case really is the answer which kind of makes me wonder why Apple didn't just coat the sides with some thin film or plastic.

I still think it's impossible they didn't notice this before they released it. There's just no way.

And the fact that they would announce bumpers for it, having never done anything like that before, makes the whole thing stink.

They knew about the issue and their bright idea was to charge customers 30 bucks for a fix? That's downright criminal.The fix is extremely simple, though. You just separate the two antennas by more than the current millimeter of plastic. You can just put a dummy metal band between them (i.e., have another break at the very bottom of the phone). Then it's impossible to short the two antennas -- problem solved.

Either, (A) they realized this and rejected the fix, or (B) they didn't realize it at all. Either way, it looks REALLY bad for them.

Lucky for me, it doesn't cause a problem with loss of data or dropped calls. Otherwise, I'd be taking the phone back.

[TheCount]

I went back over that link, man that's an amazing review of the phone. I had just read the bit about the antenna but the whole review is very very good.

[casmith07]

Bloomberg isn't like some blog speculation.

Neither is Wall Street Journal, and I'm still waiting on that spring announcement for the Verizon iPhone.

[casmith07]

Well, I've officially now had more dropped calls with the iPhone 4 than I ever had with the 3GS.

I'm pretty upset about it. Considering leaving AT&T and I'll talk it over with the fiancee tonight when she gets in from work. I'll hedge my bets on this mythological Verizon iPhone, because the reception issues and dropped calls have been absolutely pathetic.

[Bob Sacamano]

Well, I've officially now had more dropped calls with the iPhone 4 than I ever had with the 3GS.

I'm pretty upset about it. Considering leaving AT&T and I'll talk it over with the fiancee tonight when she gets in from work. I'll hedge my bets on this mythological Verizon iPhone, because the reception issues and dropped calls have been absolutely pathetic.

Anyone could have told you that you would have had that problem, a year ago.

[casmith07]

Anyone could have told you that you would have had that problem, a year ago.

Nah, man. In the entire year I had my iPhone 3GS, I've now had MORE dropped calls in 6 days with the iPhone 4. It's supposed to be a step UP not down.

I'm hoping there is some merit to those Verizon iPhone rumors.

[theogt]

Nah, man. In the entire year I had my iPhone 3GS, I've now had MORE dropped calls in 6 days with the iPhone 4. It's supposed to be a step UP not down.

I'm hoping there is some merit to those Verizon iPhone rumors.I haven't dropped a call yet. And the call quality seems to be MUCH MUCH better. Odd.

[casmith07]

I haven't dropped a call yet. And the call quality seems to be MUCH MUCH better. Odd.

It's pissing me off. Full bars and the call dropped 3 times driving home from my grandmother's house. Absolutely inexcusable. Add to that fact that Verizon gets signal on the Metro in tunnels in Washington DC and AT&T doesn't, and it's becoming harder and harder to keep putting up with AT&T for the iPhone.

Man I hope those rumors aren't just another tease for the millionth time.

[Heisenberg]

I went back over that link, man that's an amazing review of the phone. I had just read the bit about the antenna but the whole review is very very good.

Anandtech is the best in the business at tech reviews. They have a focus on computer hardware mainly, but they've started getting into reviews of phones/mobile operating systems/etc. They're great.

[Heisenberg]

It's pissing me off. Full bars and the call dropped 3 times driving home from my grandmother's house. Absolutely inexcusable. Add to that fact that Verizon gets signal on the Metro in tunnels in Washington DC and AT&T doesn't, and it's becoming harder and harder to keep putting up with AT&T for the iPhone.

Man I hope those rumors aren't just another tease for the millionth time.

Sticking with a carrier for a phone is becoming more and more silly, IMO. No top of the line phone is that much better than another top of the line phone that you need to actually put up with crappy carriers.

When the first iPhone came out, could you have said it was worth going with AT&T because nothing else could compare? Sure. Now? No way.

[Hoofbite]

I've had some issues with ATT but I'll be sticking with them because I get a pretty bad *** discount.

[theogt]

Sticking with a carrier for a phone is becoming more and more silly, IMO. No top of the line phone is that much better than another top of the line phone that you need to actually put up with crappy carriers.

When the first iPhone came out, could you have said it was worth going with AT&T because nothing else could compare? Sure. Now? No way.I would have agreed before the iPhone 4. But this thing is way ahead of everything else out there right now. There may be phones that can match the hardware, but when you add in design and UI, I wouldn't consider anything else personally.

[Sam I Am]

I would have agreed before the iPhone 4. But this thing is way ahead of everything else out there right now. There may be phones that can match the hardware, but when you add in design and UI, I wouldn't consider anything else personally.

Either you are hell bent bias or you are not actually looking at the iPhone's competitors. The iPhone 4 is not way ahead of everything else. The iPhone UI IMO while very nice isn't as good as Androids for the pure and simple fact that Androids is far more customizable and feature packed. With the release of Android 2.2, several of the gaps where Android is clearly better than the iPhone, become even more glaring.

Of course there are areas where the iPhone is better than Android, but it is in no way "way ahead".

One thing that I do love about the iPhone 4 is the new display. That is a thing of beauty and is better than my Nexus One. Although, the Nexus One display is very nice also. It's clear and very sharp.

[Sam I Am]

Personally I think its to grant them credibility in the eventual law suits. You don't want to go on the defense stand with these issues confirmed and having no proof you've done anything to try and fix the issue.

At least you can say hey, we hired 3 to 4 new engineers just for antenna issues. We aren't being negligent.

Especially after Jobs comes out and says it's an issue with how your hand is built, not how the phone is built.

And it begins...

LINK (http://www.appleinsider.com/articles/10/07/01/apple_sued_over_iphone_4_reception_issues.html)

=============

Apple sued over iPhone 4 reception issues

By Neil Hughes
Published: 08:05 AM EST

Numerous lawsuits were filed this week against Apple, as a number of consumers hope to take the company to task over reception issues that arise with the new iPhone 4 when the left side of the device is covered with a hand.

At least three class-action complaints were filed in California, Maryland, and Texas. The largest was filed in a U.S. District Court in Oakland, Calif., and has a list of 11 plaintiffs included in the complaint, residing in California and New Jersey. The other two each include one plaintiff.

Apple has been accused of violation of the Federal Communications Act, three counts of products liability related to negligence, defect in design and breach of implied warranty, intentional and negligent misrepresentation, fraud by concealment, unfair business practices and more.

"The iPhone 4 manifests design and manufacturing defects that were known to Defendants before it was released which were not disclosed to consumers, namely, a connection problem caused by the iPhone 4's antenna configuration that makes it difficult or impossible to maintain a connection to AT&T's network," the California complaint reads.

"Defendants have failed to provide customer support to assist iPhone 4 customers regarding this defect. Consumers are left with three options: hold their phones in an awkward or unnatural manner, return their phones and pay 10% 'restocking fee,' or purchase Apple's own 'bumper' cases for their phones, costing $29.99 in addition to the premium they have already paid for the phones themselves, which may somewhat ameliorate the iPhone 4's defects."

http://photos.appleinsider.com/iphone4suit-100701.jpg

The complaints also target AT&T, the exclusive wireless carrier of the iPhone in the U.S. They allege that the company helped to design, manufacture and market the new iPhone 4.

The California suit also references e-mails allegedly sent by Apple Chief Executive Steve Jobs, in which he reportedly told one customer that they were holding their iPhone 4 "the wrong way."

The class action suit filed in Oakland seeks damages, and also asks the court to issue an injunction on Apple and AT&T, forcing them to "undertake an informational campaign" to let the general public know the "wrongfulness" of the companies' practices. It was filed on Wednesday, June 30.

The first sign of a potential lawsuit arise on Tuesday, when a California law firm asked people, via their website, to share their experiences with reception on the iPhone 4. Wednesday's California lawsuit was filed by that same law firm: Kershaw, Cutter & Ratinoff LLP.

After the iPhone 4 was released last week, Reports began to grow that Apple's latest handset can lose reception when gripped wit the left hand. On some devices, covering or even just touching the point on the metal perimeter antennas meet on the bottom left corner of the phone can cause loss of signal and even dropped calls.

When the iPhone 4 was announced earlier this month, Apple revealed that the metal band around the outside of the device has breaks in it to allow the multiple antennas inside the device -- for cellular service, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and more -- to establish connections. The larger metal piece on the right side of the phone serves as the GSM/UMTS cellular antenna, and the smaller portion on the left side is responsible for Bluetooth, Wi-Fi and GPS.

Apple publicly responded to reports of reception issues, stating that any mobile phone has reception issues when held improperly. The company suggested that customers avoid gripping the handset in the lower left corner, or use "one of many available cases" to prevent one's skin from touching the metal band.

[casmith07]

I've had some issues with ATT but I'll be sticking with them because I get a pretty bad *** discount.

This :lmao2:

[casmith07]

I would have agreed before the iPhone 4. But this thing is way ahead of everything else out there right now. There may be phones that can match the hardware, but when you add in design and UI, I wouldn't consider anything else personally.

Neither would I. It really is a great device.

[theogt]

Either you are hell bent bias or you are not actually looking at the iPhone's competitors. The iPhone 4 is not way ahead of everything else. The iPhone UI IMO while very nice isn't as good as Androids for the pure and simple fact that Androids is far more customizable and feature packed. With the release of Android 2.2, several of the gaps where Android is clearly better than the iPhone, become even more glaring.

Of course there are areas where the iPhone is better than Android, but it is in no way "way ahead".

One thing that I do love about the iPhone 4 is the new display. That is a thing of beauty and is better than my Nexus One. Although, the Nexus One display is very nice also. It's clear and very sharp.We know you hate Apple. Your input isn't really needed.

Thanks, though.

[Sam I Am]

We know you hate Apple. Your input isn't really needed.

Thanks, though.

...and we know you are all over Apple's jock, so we already know what you think without even needing to say anything.

[Bob Sacamano]

Techie Fight!!

[Sam I Am]

Go to Youtube and search for "iPhone4 vs HTC Evo" and click the first video. (cartoon) You will see theogt trying to buy his iPhone 4. :lmao2: :lmao:

Can't link it here due to language.

[theogt]

...and we know you are all over Apple's jock, so we already know what you think without even needing to say anything.I don't care for Apple products other than the iPhone and iPad. Can't stand their computers. If my opinion about the iPhone disqualifies me from having an opinion on the iPhone, that's just weird.

I don't have an irrational attachment or hatred to faceless corporations as you do. I prefer Google web browsers, Microsoft OSs, Apple iPhones -- basically I prefer the best consumer product, regardless of who makes it.

[Sam I Am]

I don't care for Apple products other than the iPhone and iPad. Can't stand their computers. If my opinion about the iPhone disqualifies me from having an opinion on the iPhone, that's just weird.

I don't have an irrational attachment or hatred to faceless corporations as you do.

I don't hate Apple, I hate Steve Jobs. (I seem to have to reiterate this every time) I don't even hate the iPhone. The iPhone as a whole has a few aspects to it that are better than Android, but overall the Android OS is easily superior to the iPhone OS.

[Maikeru-sama]

We know you hate Apple. Your input isn't really needed.

Thanks, though.

Techie Fight!!

:laugh2:

[kapolani]

but overall the Android OS is easily superior to the iPhone OS.

Curious what you think makes it superior?

If having a fragmented OS makes it superior...

[Hoofbite]

Techie Fight!!

http://southerngent.files.wordpress.com/2008/07/nerd-fight.jpg

Say it again theo, I dare you. Say iPhone is better.

[Sam I Am]

Curious what you think makes it superior?

If having a fragmented OS makes it superior...

It is more feature rich, far more customizable, you can run any app you want (and write any app you want), it supports Flash, and best of all it's maturing and adding more functionallity at a breakneck pace.

I think it's better than iPhone OS now, next year they probably won't even be comparable. iPhone OS isn't maturing at the same pace as Android. When the first iPhone came out I believe a year or so later the first Android device came out. That Android device was nothing to write home about. Today that isn't the case.

If Android can show up a year late to the show and is already considered better than the iPhone by many, what happens next year or even the year after that? Apple is in trouble, thats why they are trying to sue HTC.

btw, the fragmented OS rumor is not really true. That was started by Apple. Android is still produced by Google. Others just customize it and add stuff for their specific device.

[kapolani]

Either you are hell bent bias or you are not actually looking at the iPhone's competitors. The iPhone 4 is not way ahead of everything else. The iPhone UI IMO while very nice isn't as good as Androids for the pure and simple fact that Androids is far more customizable and feature packed. With the release of Android 2.2, several of the gaps where Android is clearly better than the iPhone, become even more glaring.


How does having X versions of Android and Y different screen resolutions and Z different touch/multi touch interfaces help programmers?

Developers follow the money. Where are the stories of the developers making money through Android?

Apple has down a great job of making things easy for the end user.

Creating a version per carrier per vendor has been tried by many (motorola) and was and still is a nightmare to manage.

How is Android different from Windows Mobile conceptually? Android is just another Linux distro from Google for a mobile platform.

I still don't see where it's superior...

[Sam I Am]

I still don't see where it's superior...

How about you actually go check out a Nexus One or Evo4? Something tells me you've never actually used one. Otherwise you wouldn't be so quick to judge.

[kapolani]

It is more feature rich, far more customizable, you can run any app you want (and write any app you want), it supports Flash, and best of all it's maturing and adding more functionallity at a breakneck pace.


Flash? LOL. How's that battery life?


I think it's better than iPhone OS now, next year they probably won't even be comparable. iPhone OS isn't maturing at the same pace as Android. When the first iPhone came out I believe a year or so later the first Android device came out. That Android device was nothing to write home about. Today that isn't the case.


Who's going to support all the different versions?

What marketplace?


If Android can show up a year late to the show and is already considered better than the iPhone by many, what happens next year or even the year after that? Apple is in trouble, thats why they are trying to sue HTC.


Who?


btw, the fragmented OS rumor is not really true. That was started by Apple. Android is still produced by Google. Others just customize it and add stuff for their specific device.

It's customized for their specific hardware.

I'm a software engineer. I code. I code for different platforms i.e. windows/linux etc.

It is not a rumor. It is the way it is.

As a developer why would I choose to code for a specific device when I can choose to code for a platform with 100+ million devices.

[kapolani]

How about you actually go check out a Nexus One or Evo4? Something tells me you've never actually used one. Otherwise you wouldn't be so quick to judge.

Nexus One?

That piece of crap?

You mean the one that Google has stopped making/selling because it flopped horrifically?

That one?

[kapolani]

I've tried Android devices.

I'm a gadget guy.

The Android OS is not as polished nor refined like the IOS.

[Sam I Am]

Nexus One?

That piece of crap?

You mean the one that Google has stopped making/selling because it flopped horrifically?

That one?

Piece of crap? Give me a break. My wife even says my Nexus One is better than her iTouch.

btw since you obviously have absolutely no clue what you're talking about, Google only stopped selling the Nexus One online. You will soon be buying them in the T-Mobile stores instead. :rolleyes: The Nexus One isn't going anywhere.

I seriously doubt you've actually used one as you claim. If so, you had a had made your decision to not like it before you ever picked it up.

[kapolani]

Piece of crap? Give me a break. My wife even says my Nexus One is better than her iTouch.


Apples and Oranges.

And, didn't know your wife was the leading authority on technology. Must not have gotten the memo.


btw since you obviously have absolutely no clue what you're talking about, Google only stopped selling the Nexus One online. You will soon be buying them in the T-Mobile stores instead. :rolleyes: The Nexus One isn't going anywhere.


Yes. I have no clue.

Last figures I have seen 135,000 Nexus Ones have been sold.

Outstanding.


I seriously doubt you've actually used one as you claim.

I did. Not as fluid. The overall user experience isn't a game changer.

Sorry. But, don't need to get your panties all wadded up.

[Sam I Am]

It's customized for their specific hardware.

I'm a software engineer. I code. I code for different platforms i.e. windows/linux etc.

It is not a rumor. It is the way it is.

As a developer why would I choose to code for a specific device when I can choose to code for a platform with 100+ million devices.

LOL. I'm sure you're quite good at your job too. You do understand what the fragmentation issue is right? v1.6 vs v2.1

As a freaking self-proclaimed programmer, you do understand what Java is right? I'm confused since there is iPhone v4 and iPhone v3 out there and you don't see the same issue? Customizing a phone doesn't break an application.

You're talking about the fragmentation of say Linux in have several distros. Android isn't fragmented like that, but as a software developer I would expect you to know that.

I love how your responses to my last post weren't even relative.

[kapolani]

You still haven't told me what's superior.

All you mentioned was just fluff.

Fluff that I can do with my jailbroken iphone.

From a hardware and software stand point, what is superior? You mentioned nothing that is superior.

[Maikeru-sama]

You still haven't told me what's superior.

All you mentioned was just fluff.

Fluff that I can do with my jailbroken iphone.

From a hardware and software stand point, what is superior? You mentioned nothing that is superior.

It isn't a product made by that evil company, Apple .

[Sam I Am]

Here you go. Find out what Android fragmentation (http://technologizer.com/2010/05/23/android-fragmentation/) actually is. :rolleyes:

[Sam I Am]

You still haven't told me what's superior.

All you mentioned was just fluff.

Fluff that I can do with my jailbroken iphone.

From a hardware and software stand point, what is superior? You mentioned nothing that is superior.

:D

Sure I did, but you have blinders on.

[Joe Rod]

Go Blackberry, WOOHOO!

[kapolani]

LOL. I'm sure you're quite good at your job too. You do understand what the fragmentation issue is right? v1.6 vs v2.1

As a freaking self-proclaimed programmer, you do understand what Java is right? I'm confused since there is iPhone v4 and iPhone v3 out there and you don't see the same issue? Customizing a phone doesn't break an application.


All iPhones have the same underlying OS.

Having to build a specific OS to support your hardware requirements is not the way to go.

Not all apps that are coded for an Android device can run on EVERY device.

Yes. In fact I'm coding in Java right now.

You do realize that Java apps have to have Java Virtual Machine running, correct? Running for a specific platform etc.


You're talking about the fragmentation of say Linux in have several distros. Android isn't fragmented like that, but as a software developer I would expect you to know that.

So, what you're saying is - all Android phones are running the same build. Is that what you're saying?

Maybe you don't understand what fragmentation is.

I don't even know how many different Android devices are out there. They ARE NOT running the same builds.

So, as a developer I have to choose what builds I can support. I would also have to choose which devices are worth supporting.

[Sam I Am]

Yes. In fact I'm coding in Visual Basic right now.
Fixed it for you. ;)


You do realize that Java apps have to have Java Virtual Machine running, correct? Running for a specific platform etc. Are you trying to teach me something? I'm a freaking systems architect. I don't need a JVM installation lesson. :laugh2:

So, as a developer I have to choose what builds I can support. I would also have to choose which devices are worth supporting.
More power to you. If you're a mobile app developer and money is your bottom line. We will see you developing for the Android soon enough.

[kapolani]

Fixed it for you. ;)

Are you trying to teach me something? I'm a freaking systems architect. I don't need a JVM installation lesson. :laugh2:

More power to you. If you're a mobile app developer and money is your bottom line. We will see you developing for the Android soon enough.

You're a systems architect?

And you don't see the problem.

Now I know you're full of poop.

LOL.

:lmao2:

[Sam I Am]

You're a systems architect?

And you don't see the problem.

Now I know you're full of poop.

LOL.

:lmao2:

Oh I get it. You're using the "If you can't dazzle them with brilliance, baffle them with bull****" approach here. :rolleyes:

[WoodysGirl]

Go Blackberry, WOOHOO!
*high five*

:muttley:

[kapolani]

Oh I get it. You're using the "If you can't dazzle them with brilliance, baffle them with bull****" approach here. :rolleyes:

Wait. You mean like you trying to toss out buzzwords like Java to make you sound like you know what you're talking about?

What exactly do you do as a Systems Architect. The ones I work with definitely don't code.

Still waiting for you to dazzle me with Androids superiority.

[casmith07]

You're a systems architect?

And you don't see the problem.

Now I know you're full of poop.

LOL.

:lmao2:

He just tried to discount your argument by saying you're coding in Visual Basic, when based on your post you clearly are indeed coding in Java, discussing virtual machines, etc.

lol.

[kapolani]

He just tried to discount your argument by saying you're coding in Visual Basic, when based on your post you clearly are indeed coding in Java, discussing virtual machines, etc.

lol.

In a pass life I used to shoot guns and blow **** up. Sometimes people mistake my meathead appearance thinking I'm not a smart and highly motivated individual.

I now bang on a keyboard to pay my bills.

[casmith07]

In a pass life I used to shoot guns and blow **** up. Sometimes people mistake my meathead appearance thinking I'm not a smart and highly motivated individual.

I now bang on a keyboard to pay my bills.

You know what they say. Disregard females, acquire currency, by any means deemed fair and proper.

[Maikeru-sama]

Wait. You mean like you trying to toss out buzzwords like Java to make you sound like you know what you're talking about?

What exactly do you do as a Systems Architect. The ones I work with definitely don't code.

Still waiting for you to dazzle me with Androids superiority.

Wow...

[kapolani]

Wow...

Well, it's true.

System Architect != System Engineer

[Sam I Am]

Wait. You mean like you trying to toss out buzzwords like Java to make you sound like you know what you're talking about?

What exactly do you do as a Systems Architect. The ones I work with definitely don't code.

Still waiting for you to dazzle me with Androids superiority.

I build infrastructure for financial trading platforms. (like E-trade, Ameritrade, but for a different company) You're right, I do not program for a living (though I can and did at one time) I DO on the other hand know all about operating systems, software versions and Java. I have to, because I have to make them work. Not "just work" they have to be absolutely rock solid.

I DO also know about fragmentation for the very same reason. Something you've already made clear you don't have a complete grasp on. Just a buzz word you hear Steve Jobs say.

I already told you several things better, but you just keep acting like a 6 year old screaming the same thing over and over making it pointless to keep responding. I get more coherent responses from my dog. Next you're going to start screaming "I know you are, but what am I!"

I'll pass. /ignored

[Maikeru-sama]

Well, it's true.

System Architect != System Engineer

No the "Wow" was for what you said in the first sentence :laugh2: .

Anywho, there are so many "titles" and disciplines in IT that I have a hard time keeping track of what each one does.

I'm actually going to work for an IT Consulting firm in 2 weeks and I had 2 Technical Interviews. The first guy was an "Architect" and he told me straight up he couldn't ask me any in depth technical questions as he was more high level, so the interview was mostly about Design Patterns, Auditing/Logging, Software Optimization, Creation of Artifacts/Documentation etc etc.

I want to go that route eventually, so I learned a lot from him.

[kapolani]

I build infrastructure for financial trading platforms. (like E-trade, Ameritrade, but for a different company) You're right, I do not program for a living (though I can and did at one time) I DO on the other hand know all about operating systems, software versions and Java. I have to, because I have to make them work. Not "just work" they have to be absolutely rock solid.


You can make them work because an engineer told you how to make it work.


I DO also know about fragmentation for the very same reason. Something you've already made you don't have a complete grasp on. Just a buzz word you hear Steve Jobs say.


It's quite obvious you have no clue what I was trying to tell you.

If you were a software engineer you'd understand exactly what I'm saying.


I already told you several things better, but you just keep acting like a 6 year old screaming the same thing over and over making it pointless to keep responding. I get more coherent responses from my dog. Next you're going to start screaming "I know you are, but what am I!"


No, what you did was try to dazzle me by cut and pasting crap you googled up.


I'll pass. /ignored

Dust the sand out of you va-jay-jay and have a meaningful discussion.

You can be an Apple hater all you want. I don't really care. But, when called out and asked to explain yourself, you offer jibberish.

You haven't told me crap.

And now, you're going to say I'm acting childish and run away.

:lmao:

[kapolani]

The first guy was an "Architect" and he told me straight up he couldn't ask me any in depth technical questions as he was more high level, so the interview was mostly about Design Patterns, Auditing/Logging, Software Optimization, Creation of Artifacts/Documentation etc etc.


Exactly.

And then they go to the engineers and leave it to us to figure it out and make it work.

I didn't mean to belittle anyone's occupation. But, trying to be cute and take a stab at me with some VB bullcrap...

Meh...

[bbgun]

http://img714.imageshack.us/img714/7327/dailypicdump44564024.jpg

[Bob Sacamano]

Either you are hell bent bias or you are not actually looking at the iPhone's competitors. The iPhone 4 is not way ahead of everything else. The iPhone UI IMO while very nice isn't as good as Androids for the pure and simple fact that Androids is far more customizable and feature packed. With the release of Android 2.2, several of the gaps where Android is clearly better than the iPhone, become even more glaring.

Of course there are areas where the iPhone is better than Android, but it is in no way "way ahead".

One thing that I do love about the iPhone 4 is the new display. That is a thing of beauty and is better than my Nexus One. Although, the Nexus One display is very nice also. It's clear and very sharp.

http://img202.imageshack.us/img202/7988/1239883733angryvideogam.gif
How does having X versions of Android and Y different screen resolutions and Z different touch/multi touch interfaces help programmers?

Developers follow the money. Where are the stories of the developers making money through Android?

Apple has down a great job of making things easy for the end user.

Creating a version per carrier per vendor has been tried by many (motorola) and was and still is a nightmare to manage.

How is Android different from Windows Mobile conceptually? Android is just another Linux distro from Google for a mobile platform.

I still don't see where it's superior...

:lmao2:

[Maikeru-sama]

Exactly.

And then they go to the engineers and leave it to us to figure it out and make it work.

I didn't mean to belittle anyone's occupation. But, trying to be cute and take a stab at me with some VB bullcrap...

Meh...

That's true but the "architects" are the ones making the bigger paycheck and the ones that still have a job once the company adopts outsourcing.

Regardless, there is a need for all those positions in IT but overall, I agree with you Architects aren't going to be as technical as the folks that actually implement the design.

[kapolani]

That's true but the "architects" are the ones making the bigger paycheck and the ones that still have a job once the company adopts outsourcing.


You don't outsource the kind of work I do.

Maybe for e-commerce apps.

Real time/embedded programming, no.

It's not unheard of for programmers in my field getting paid six figures after five years working. I've been doing my job for 10 years. Straight out of college 75k ~ 85k was the norm. Not sure what they are getting now.


Regardless, there is a need for all those positions in IT but overall, I agree with you Architects aren't going to be as technical as the folks that actually implement the design.

I didn't say they weren't needed.

All I'm saying is an engineer at my level can do the same thing as system engineers/architects. In fact, we often times do that all ourselves. Conversely, not all system engineers/architects can program and implement the design.

[Heisenberg]

I would have agreed before the iPhone 4. But this thing is way ahead of everything else out there right now. There may be phones that can match the hardware, but when you add in design and UI, I wouldn't consider anything else personally.

Honestly, the only thing that it does better than any other phone out there, for the moment, is have a higher screen resolution and that's only for a short period of time. Samsung is going to take that crown very shortly.

[Heisenberg]

Nexus One?

That piece of crap?

You mean the one that Google has stopped making/selling because it flopped horrifically?

That one?

It's actually a really nice phone. It's since been passed up in technology by other phones, but it's still got a real nice screen, a 1 ghz Snapdragon proc, and gets OTA Android updates before every other Android device.

Google is still selling them on their website at the moment. Rumors are that there will be a Nexus Two, but Google won't be selling them directly to customers. They'll be working with T-Mobile and selling them through stores this time around.

That was their mistake last time. The hardware was great. The OS was great. Their approach was wrong.

[TheCount]

Honestly, the only thing that it does better than any other phone out there, for the moment, is have a higher screen resolution and that's only for a short period of time. Samsung is going to take that crown very shortly.

It has a better video and still camera than anything else out there.

[Heisenberg]

It has a better video and still camera than anything else out there.

I'd say the still camera could be debated, but I would agree on the video camera. I've yet to see a review that doesn't say it's better than any other phone's video camera.

[CowBoyRod]

I just watched Futurama and they were paroding the new "eyePhone" with a display in your "Retina" I was laughing soo much!!!!

[theogt]

I'd say the still camera could be debated, but I would agree on the video camera. I've yet to see a review that doesn't say it's better than any other phone's video camera.Better camera, better design, better UI, better display, better app store. And no phone out there has a better processor/memory combination.

I think that puts it heads and shoulders above all other phones out there. You can disagree with any or all of those, but none of them are controversial statements. I doubt you can find a phone that can make all of those claims in reverse with a straight face.

[casmith07]

I just watched Futurama and they were paroding the new "eyePhone" with a display in your "Retina" I was laughing soo much!!!!

Futurama still comes on tv?

[Heisenberg]

Better camera, better design, better UI, better display, better app store. And no phone out there has a better processor/memory combination.

I think that puts it heads and shoulders above all other phones out there. You can disagree with any or all of those, but none of them are controversial statements. I doubt you can find a phone that can make all of those claims in reverse with a straight face.

I would personally disagree with some of those, but you're right, none of those are controversial statements.

I see your point. :D

[TheCount]

Here's your "Fix": http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/us_tec_apple_iphone_complaints

Apple `stunned' to find iPhones show too many bars
By PETER SVENSSON, AP Technology Writer Peter Svensson, Ap Technology Writer 25 mins ago

NEW YORK – Apple Inc. said Friday that it was "stunned" to find that its iPhones have for years been using a "totally wrong" formula to determine how many bars of signal strength they are getting.

Apple said that's the reason behind widespread complaints from users that the latest model, iPhone 4, can show a sudden plunge in signal strength when they hold it in a way that covers a small black strip on one edge of the phone. Users online have jokingly called this the "death grip" for the phone.

That drop seems exaggerated because the phone can wrongly display four or five bars of signal strength when it shouldn't, Apple said.

"Their big drop in bars is because their high bars were never real in the first place," the company said in a letter to users.

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So basically the fix is to simply reduce how many bars are shown when the antenna is covered. They don't think it's a shorting issue as has been suggested, but are just going visually pacify the user.

Unfortunately for them, there has been actual proof that covering the antenna does in fact drop data throughput, so not sure how they're going to justify that one.

The fact of the matter is that the LOCATION of the antenna is what causes people to cover it up in the first place, and it does have an actual effect on your reception and your data speed. Of course no word of that in the Apple press release.

Futher analyzed on Engadget: http://www.engadget.com/2010/07/02/apple-iphone-4-reception-problems-a-software-issue-fix-coming/

[theogt]

Wow. Apple is in a tailspin on this issue. How can they really be this ignorant?

[Sam I Am]

Here is the offical statement from Apple.

LINK (http://www.apple.com/pr/library/2010/07/02appleletter.html)

==========

July 2, 2010
Letter from Apple Regarding iPhone 4

Dear iPhone 4 Users,

The iPhone 4 has been the most successful product launch in Apple’s history. It has been judged by reviewers around the world to be the best smartphone ever, and users have told us that they love it. So we were surprised when we read reports of reception problems, and we immediately began investigating them. Here is what we have learned.

To start with, gripping almost any mobile phone in certain ways will reduce its reception by 1 or more bars. This is true of iPhone 4, iPhone 3GS, as well as many Droid, Nokia and RIM phones. But some users have reported that iPhone 4 can drop 4 or 5 bars when tightly held in a way which covers the black strip in the lower left corner of the metal band. This is a far bigger drop than normal, and as a result some have accused the iPhone 4 of having a faulty antenna design.

At the same time, we continue to read articles and receive hundreds of emails from users saying that iPhone 4 reception is better than the iPhone 3GS. They are delighted. This matches our own experience and testing. What can explain all of this?

We have discovered the cause of this dramatic drop in bars, and it is both simple and surprising.

Upon investigation, we were stunned to find that the formula we use to calculate how many bars of signal strength to display is totally wrong. Our formula, in many instances, mistakenly displays 2 more bars than it should for a given signal strength. For example, we sometimes display 4 bars when we should be displaying as few as 2 bars. Users observing a drop of several bars when they grip their iPhone in a certain way are most likely in an area with very weak signal strength, but they don’t know it because we are erroneously displaying 4 or 5 bars. Their big drop in bars is because their high bars were never real in the first place.

To fix this, we are adopting AT&T’s recently recommended formula for calculating how many bars to display for a given signal strength. The real signal strength remains the same, but the iPhone’s bars will report it far more accurately, providing users a much better indication of the reception they will get in a given area. We are also making bars 1, 2 and 3 a bit taller so they will be easier to see.

We will issue a free software update within a few weeks that incorporates the corrected formula. Since this mistake has been present since the original iPhone, this software update will also be available for the iPhone 3GS and iPhone 3G.

We have gone back to our labs and retested everything, and the results are the same— the iPhone 4’s wireless performance is the best we have ever shipped. For the vast majority of users who have not been troubled by this issue, this software update will only make your bars more accurate. For those who have had concerns, we apologize for any anxiety we may have caused.

As a reminder, if you are not fully satisfied, you can return your undamaged iPhone to any Apple Retail Store or the online Apple Store within 30 days of purchase for a full refund.

We hope you love the iPhone 4 as much as we do.

Thank you for your patience and support.

Apple

[TheCount]

Wow. Apple is in a tailspin on this issue. How can they really be this ignorant?

I think it's safe to assume they aren't ignorant at all. Like a lot of companies when something like this crops up, they are trying to cover their *** by playing games with the consumer.

[CowBoyRod]

Futurama still comes on tv?

New Episodes on Comedy central every Thursday @ 9pm central

[Idgit]

The iphone4 is hugely cooler than anything Android's doing right now, and the Apple backlash is silly. They made this market, they lead it by a mile, and they continue to push the boundaries.

That said, this is pretty funny: youtube > search: iPhone4 vs HTC Evo.
I can't direct link because the audio contains some vulgarity that's NSFCZ.

[theogt]

I think it's safe to assume they aren't ignorant at all. Like a lot of companies when something like this crops up, they are trying to cover their *** by playing games with the consumer.As someone whose job is to draft corporate disclosure, I understand the game. But I honestly believe they don't realize the problem is "shorting" the two antennas. It appears they still believe it's a signal attenuation problem.

[TheCount]

Finally got my iPhone this morning, it's everything I dreamt it would be (including being able to ruin the reception with two fingers).

The camera quality is excellent and the screen is amazing. Much faster than my 3G too. Now I just need them to start selling the damn white bumper.

[TheCount]

Just like I thought, Apple just admitted the software update won't do jack for the antenna issues.

http://gizmodo.com/5580587/applecare-the-iphone-4-update-wont-solve-the-antenna-problem

At least they are finally acknowledging an Antenna problem.

[Hoofbite]

Picked mine up today. Best Buy only had a 32GB so I went with it.

****ing SWEET!

Way faster than my 3G. Hands down one of the best handsets I have seen.

[theogt]

Picked mine up today. Best Buy only had a 32GB so I went with it.

****ing SWEET!

Way faster than my 3G. Hands down one of the best handsets I have seen.After a couple weeks, I'm still amazed at the display and the speed.

[SaltwaterServr]

I actually got caught selling Vicodin to SaltwaterServr.

I want my money back. Nasty critters. Next time I'll let the Chinese feller in the black SUV keep you hostage.

[ajk23az]

Just like I thought, Apple just admitted the software update won't do jack for the antenna issues.

http://gizmodo.com/5580587/applecare-the-iphone-4-update-wont-solve-the-antenna-problem

At least they are finally acknowledging an Antenna problem.

100% agree with this person from your link;

12:07 AM
The idea that so many of you are willing/happy to continue buying things from this company is a true wonderment. Their recent actions and communications (AND lack of communications) is generally enough to sour consumer appeal.

To not push back…hard, will only ensure that things will get worse. Even if you love Apple products, as consumers you’re the only ones that can keep the company honest.

Apple = Herders
Consumers = Sheep

Apple will make so much more money off those $30 bumpers. Probably just how they planned.

[Idgit]

100% agree with this person from your link;

Apple = Herders
Consumers = Sheep

Apple will make so much more money off those $30 bumpers. Probably just how they planned.

As long as they're able to pace the market and lap the rest of the field with their products, they'll deserve it.

On the whole, Apple consumers are much savvier than pc consumers. If the products aren't consistently great, they won't keep buying them. The iphone4 isn't just better than the android knock offs on the market, it's a lot cooler.

The antennae issue is a non-issue and it's just backlash against the market leader because nobody likes a frontrunner. At least, from my experience with the phone, reception, call quality, battery life, and speed have all been hugely upgraded.

[kapolani]

There's a rumor that AT&T has been capping upload speeds.

The day I got the phone and for a couple days after I was getting:

24 Jun:
down: 4.6kbps
up: 2.1 kbps

Around 30 Jun I was getting horrible 3G speeds. Luckily I have a wifi connection everywhere I go.

It seems to have stablized:

30 Jun - current:
down: 2.6kbps
up: 99kbps

Watching HD movies on this thing is incredible.

Still waiting patiently for a jailbreak solution. They've dissected the baseband code. Release should be sometime after AAPL comes out with 4.0.1.

[Heisenberg]

As long as they're able to pace the market and lap the rest of the field with their products, they'll deserve it.

On the whole, Apple consumers are much savvier than pc consumers. If the products aren't consistently great, they won't keep buying them. The iphone4 isn't just better than the android knock offs on the market, it's a lot cooler.

The antennae issue is a non-issue and it's just backlash against the market leader because nobody likes a frontrunner. At least, from my experience with the phone, reception, call quality, battery life, and speed have all been hugely upgraded.

What?

:confused:

[TheCount]

100% agree with this person from your link;



Apple = Herders
Consumers = Sheep

Apple will make so much more money off those $30 bumpers. Probably just how they planned.

Yup, Apple's the only company to have ever put out a product that turned out to have an engineering flaw, that's for sure. :rolleyes:

I've been playing with my phone since I got it, and it's wonderful, in case you're interested.

[kapolani]

I've been playing with my phone since I got it, and it's wonderful, in case you're interested.


My netbook is pretty much retired.

I do 99% percent of all my surfing on my iPhone 4. All banking and trading.

Remarkable little device.

[theogt]

Yup, Apple's the only company to have ever put out a product that turned out to have an engineering flaw, that's for sure. :rolleyes:

I've been playing with my phone since I got it, and it's wonderful, in case you're interested.

My netbook is pretty much retired.

I do 99% percent of all my surfing on my iPhone 4. All banking and trading.

Remarkable little device.Sheep.

;)

[kapolani]

Sheep.

;)


If you would have asked me about Apple 10 years ago I would've said their fanbase are a bunch of tree hugging, VW diesel Jetta driving, yuppie types.

My wife got me the 3GS for Christmas - I would have never bought it myself. It completely changed the way I think about Apple. LOL.

I have2 Windows boxes, 3 laptops, Xbox 360, PS3, and 2 Apple devices - my wife and I have iPhones.

I'm thinking of picking up my first app and mess around with developing on that platform.

:D

[kapolani]

AT&T and Alcatel-Lucent jointly identified a software defect — triggered under certain conditions – that impacted uplink performance for Laptop Connect and smartphone customers using 3G HSUPA-capable wireless devices in markets with Alcatel-Lucent equipment. This impacts less than two percent of our wireless customer base. While Alcatel-Lucent develops the appropriate software fix, we are providing normal 3G uplink speeds and consistent performance for affected customers with HSUPA-capable devices.


Apple needs to open up to other carriers.

[vta]

If you would have asked me about Apple 10 years ago I would've said their fanbase are a bunch of tree hugging, VW diesel Jetta driving, yuppie types.

My wife got me the 3GS for Christmas - I would have never bought it myself. It completely changed the way I think about Apple. LOL.

I have2 Windows boxes, 3 laptops, Xbox 360, PS3, and 2 Apple devices - my wife and I have iPhones.

I'm thinking of picking up my first app and mess around with developing on that platform.

:D

This and other discussions I have with people are completely fascinating.
I've been using Apple Computer for 100% of my job for 15 years and the perspectives have so completely turned, it's not even funny. The iPhone has really turned opinions on their ear, for better or worse.

I used to be the one talking up what Apple does well and all of that has changed, while the people doing the talking haven't. Now I'm amazingly frustrated with Apple, it's business practices and it's machines and people (not here) who'd never owned an Apple product are defending them, due to their popularity and market standings.

I see a lot of what I find frustrating also going on with iPhones. I don't really know the full story with this antennae bit, but Jobs response was absolute ****, if it's accurate, just as ****ty as claiming if you spend an extra $30.00, the problem will go away. No one in their right mind would accept this sort of **** from any other kind product manufacturer.

Apple has a tendency to simply think it can ignore other aspects of computing/communicating and everyone will just follow along. Unfortunately, they're absolutely right because people will buy, sight unseen in droves, what they put out regardless of performance.

I tend to think this is lousy. People will throw out all kinds of money to keep their entertainment flowing.

There's no incentive to do it right the first time, if everyone is throwing money at you for something that hasn't even been delivered and are willing to give you even more to make your design flaw go away.

[Idgit]

What?

:confused:

Aren't you adorable. Deep down, you know I'm right.

[Heisenberg]

Aren't you adorable. Deep down, you know I'm right.

Deep down, I know something, but it ain't that. :D

[TheCount]

Mostly for Theo, since he was worried about altering the astethic of the phone with a case but check this out:

http://www.ivyskin.com/media/catalog/product/cache/1/image/5e06319eda06f020e43594a9c230972d/i/p/iphone4-reception-case.png

http://www.ivyskin.com/iphone-4-case/iphone-4-reception-case.html

After everything it comes out to about 20 bucks for me. Doesn't seem as integrated as the Apple case, but it is clear and thin and comes with screen protection.

I'm considering it, still waiting to see what other cases pop up before the white bumper becomes available from Apple.

[Heisenberg]

I'm sure you can buy those clear skins for it. It doesn't add any bulk and honestly, it's hard to tell you have one on if you apply it correctly. I will ephasize correctly applying it though. It looks like *** if you don't.

[TheCount]

I'm sure you can buy those clear skins for it. It doesn't add any bulk and honestly, it's hard to tell you have one on if you apply it correctly. I will ephasize correctly applying it though. It looks like *** if you don't.

Yeah, I can never get those things on right. And I've got OCD about crap like that so even one bubble drives me insane.

But the case above is polycarbonate, so it actually offers real protection where as a skin does not. It just happens to come with a skin to protect the front as well from scratches.

[justbob]

Non iphone question --I have a HTC hero --it ask for myserver address and domain name to set up my e-mail --where can I find this on my home computer(running win 7)

[Sam I Am]

Non iphone question --I have a HTC hero --it ask for myserver address and domain name to set up my e-mail --where can I find this on my home computer(running win 7)

Depends on what (client) and who you use for email.

[Yeagermeister]

Non iphone question --I have a HTC hero --it ask for myserver address and domain name to set up my e-mail --where can I find this on my home computer(running win 7)

If your email is justbob@yahoo.com, for example, your account user/domain name would be just bob and the server is yahoo.com

[Sam I Am]

It appears Apple is planning an iPhone 4 press conference (http://www.engadget.com/2010/07/14/apple-to-hold-press-conference-on-iphone-4-this-friday/) for Friday at 10AM pacific time.

I wonder if that means they are going to recall the phone. I don't think a recall is necessary since there are other things that can be done to get around the issue. If it is a recall, it has to be for damage control purposes.

[Joe Rod]

Yet again, the winner in all of this is Duct-tape. Is there any doubt about it's awesomeness?