Apple internal memo on iPhone 4 issues

Apple has been adamant that it’s iPhone 4 has no problems, that signal loss when holding a phone was very much normal (but of course they didn’t state how much loss was acceptable) as it normally occurs on other phones as well. Steve Jobs has even pointed out recently pointing out to users that they were holding their phones wrong, which the internet responded to, inevitably creating a meme.

Apple’s remains firm on the stance that there is nothing wrong with their antenna design. So much in fact that an internal memo indicating procedures that AppleCare reps must follow when dealing with any reception complaints regarding the iPhone 4.

1. Keep all of the positioning statements in the BN handy – your tone when delivering this information is important.

a. The iPhone 4’s wireless performance is the best we have ever shipped. Our testing shows that iPhone 4’s overall antenna performance is better than iPhone 3GS.

b. Gripping almost any mobile phone in certain places will reduce its reception. This is true of the iPhone 4, the iPhone 3GS, and many other phones we have tested. It is a fact of life in the wireless world.

c. If you are experiencing this on your iPhone 3GS, avoid covering the bottom-right side with your hand.

d. If you are experiencing this on your iPhone 4, avoid covering the black strip in the lower-left corner of the metal band.

e. The use of a case or Bumper that is made out of rubber or plastic may improve wireless performance by keeping your hand from directly covering these areas.

2. Do not perform warranty service. Use the positioning above for any customer questions or concerns.

3. Don’t forget YOU STILL NEED to probe and troubleshoot. If a customer calls about their reception while the phone is sitting on a table (not being held) it is not the metal band.

4. ONLY escalate if the issue exists when the phone is not held AND you cannot resolve it.

5. We ARE NOT appeasing customers with free bumpers – DON’T promise a free bumper to customers.