Will Apple Recall the iPhone 4?

Almost a month after the launch of the iPhone 4, to say that the entire launch saga has been a picture perfect one would be a hard thing to do. Yes, it did sell in mind boggling numbers, it broke previous records set by the previous generation iPhones as well. But all these achievements were overshadowed by one major problem - the reception issue with the iPhone 4 antenna.

Just a few days ago, U.S.-based Cosumerreports.org had in an article that explained why they would not recommend an iPhone 4 to consumers owing to its serious signal reception issues. It also explained why Apple, and not iPhone users, should fix the problem. If you recall, Steve Jobs had apparently asked people to hold the iPhone "correctly" to avoid the reception issues.

If you are one of those few people who are still in the dark as to what this reception issue actually is, let us explain. You might be aware that the iPhone 4,unlike most other phones, has its GSM/3G and Wi-Fi antennae integrated with the external shell of the device. This is, of course, a great way to save some valuable real estate on a device that is just 9.3 mm thin. Now, due to the antennae being located externally, when your hand comes in contact with a particular a spot on the phone's lower left side, and you also happen to be in a low signal area, the signal shows a significant drop and even leads to complete loss of connection. This issue has been particularly noticed by left handed users because their hands touch the sweet spot during normal usage of the iPhone. 

Apart from the suggestion to hold the iPhone 4 appropriately, Apple has also said that it is working on a software update that will potentially solve the issue with the signal reception indication bar on the phone. The company is yet to announce any other solution apart from this. 

Of late, there has been speculations regarding an iPhone 4 product recall which would be an expensive proposition for Apple. The question on everyone's minds is, how would Apple resolve this issue - in the wake of increased complaints from even loyal iPhone users.