Consumers Reports has issued a new statement on the Apple iPhone 4, following Apple’s recent announcement that it would be ending its free iPhone 4 case program at the end of September.
Consumer Reports doesn’t seem to think it is a good idea for Apple’s customers that they are closing the iPhone 4 case program down, and now you will have to ring Apple to get an iPhone 4 case if you have any problems.
The offer that takes effect next month is less consumer-friendly in several respects. First, if you are “experiencing antenna issues” with your iPhone 4, Apple says, you’ll need to call the company to request a case. And where the current program allows owners a choice of seven cases, including some from third-party manufacturers, the new program only offers Apple’s own Bumper, a frame-like cover that runs around the edge of the phone.
Consumer Reports’ Concerns
Consumer Reports has highlighted several concerns regarding the termination of the free case program. One of the primary issues is the inconvenience it poses to customers. Previously, users could easily select from a variety of cases, including options from third-party manufacturers, which provided a range of styles and functionalities. The new program, however, limits customers to Apple’s own Bumper case. This reduction in choice may not sit well with users who prefer different designs or additional features offered by third-party cases.
Another significant concern is the process itself. Under the new program, customers experiencing antenna issues must call Apple to request a case. This added step could be seen as a hassle, especially for those who are not comfortable with making such calls or who may face long wait times. The previous program’s simplicity and ease of access were major advantages that are now being lost.
Impact on Customer Satisfaction
The decision to end the free case program could have broader implications for customer satisfaction and brand loyalty. The iPhone 4’s antenna issues, often referred to as “Antennagate,” have been a well-documented problem since the phone’s release. The free case program was initially introduced as a way to mitigate these issues and maintain customer trust. By discontinuing the program, Apple risks alienating a segment of its customer base that may feel unsupported.
Moreover, the timing of this decision is crucial. With new iPhone models being released regularly, maintaining a positive customer experience is essential for encouraging upgrades and repeat purchases. Any negative sentiment generated by this move could potentially impact future sales.
You can read the full story on what Consumer Reports had to say about the continuing iPhone 4 antenna issues over at their blog.
via Mobile Burn
Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals
Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
