Apple Announced iPhone 4 Case Program

Filed in archive Apple , iPhone , Product/Service Complain on July 25, 2010

© Yutaka Tsutano

Apple launched its free-bumper program for iPhone 4 owners, in an effort to manage the controversy with the next-generation smart phone's antenna design problems. The program was started on July 23.

Customers complained that touching the iPhone 4's exterior antenna rim resulted in weakened reception, a phenomenon that eWEEK reproduced in limited in-office tests. Apple hosted a press conference on July 16 to announce a free giveaway of rubber bumpers to cover the antenna rim.

People who will buy an iPhone 4 before September 30, 2010 are eligible to get an iPhone 4 Bumper or choose a third-party case from Apple at no charge. For purchases made before July 23, applications must be sent in on or before August 22, 2010; all others must apply within 30 days of purchase.

Users must download a special iPhone 4 Case Program application from the App Store, launch the app on the iPhone 4 and then select the bumper or case of choice.

Apple also offers a full refund for those who purchased an iPhone 4 bumper, with taxes and shipping fees. Those who bought a bumper from an Apple Retail Store with a credit card receive an automatic refund.