Apple has been mostly silent on the issue of the reported iPhone 4 antenna issues, but in a press conference today, Jobs responded. Apple didn't really apologize for the whole problem, but they admitted it was happening. To appease customers that have had a hard time with reception, Apple will be sending out free cases to all interested parties. There will be a sign up page later next week.

It didn't take long after the smartphone came out for users to notice that covering the gap between the two antennas caused a precipitous drop in signal. It seems that after Consumer Reports decided against recommending the phone, Apple decided to take action. In addition to the free cases (which will be from a number of manufacturers, as Apple can't make Bumpers fast enough), those that bought Bumper can get a refund, and keep the Bumper.

It's nice that Apple is willing to do something. We were half expecting Steve Jobs to get up on stage and tell everyone to go pound sand. But it still seems crazy to us that Apple let the desire for great design get in the way of the functionality. The result is just that too many consumers will have to cover up the great design anyway. Let us know if you think Apple blew it, or saved themselves.

Image via MobileMag