iPhone 4: what’s working for me – Gadgetell hands on

Apple continues to get hammered by the mainstream media and Consumer Reports. Problems with reception and proximity sensors is prompting some to call for a recall. Coming up on my second week now with the iPhone 4, I thought I’d share the problems and solutions I’ve found. Here is what is working for me.

Reception

This is a real issue. Apparently having sweaty hands is not serving me well (because it’s such an asset in other facets of life). I can replicate this on the dozens of iPhone 4s I’ve held; it’s like I’ve found my super power – sucking cell signal from iPhone 4.

A thin plastic case, the one shown above, seems to work for me. The case is thin enough that it doesn’t detract from the style of the device yet provides enough separation that I can’t draw out all the cell’s signal (in most cases). In my home, where I could easily drop to no signal sans case, with case I can’t get below 3 bars. Apple says the bars don’t mean what you think they mean but I’ve not lost a call with the case. Not so without one.

For the screen, I’ve installed a ZAGG Invisible Shield protector. They’ve done the job for me for years at this point and have earned my trust.

Proximity Sensor

Honestly more frustrating than the lost signal for me. This problem cause my cheek to initiate FaceTime with everyone I talked to. This seems due to a faulty proximity sensor setting. Instead of the screen turning off controls when brought to my face, it went active allowing my cheek to select different options, even ending calls. I suspect a good number of supposedly dropped calls are actually unrealized proximity sensor issues.

Today, this is not an issue for me. The solution was to reset Network Settings. Simply go to Settings>Reset>Reset Network Settings. Yes, you’ll need to reenter some info on WiFi networks and the like but in exchange for solving the cheek-dialing, I’ll take it.

As I said, this issue is a whole lot worse than the signal problem for me. Having a phone seeming do random things like dial, launch apps, or other while you are on a call is embarrassing and is indicative of a cheap toy. Shame on Apple.

Recall?

Personally, I doubt we’ll see a recall from Apple. Heck, at this point I am not sure we’ll see admission of a problem and an apology. What I do think we’ll see is distribution of a free modified slim bumper to protect the external antenna. It allows Apple to not return dollars to folks who’ve already purchased bumpers and justify it’s price at the same time. These small modified slim bumpers will likely appeases the masses and won’t detract from the style of the device.

Got an issue I didn’t address here? Let us know in the comments.