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Biochemist: Hand Washing, Plastic Spray Could Fix iPhone 4 Reception Issue

July 7, 2010

An unnamed biochemist believes he has a quick and inexpensive solution to the iPhone 4 reception issue: just wash and spray. According to Wired, the biochemist has concluded that the reason Apple engineers (and others) have been unable to reproduce the problem is because they are required to wash their hands before touching the devices. The cleaner the hands, the less likely someone will experience a problem with the iPhone 4's reception.

He contends, in a letter sent to Steve Jobs, that:
"In truth, Apple’s explanation for iPhone 4 signal reception problem is inaccurate at best and disingenuous at worst. iPhone users are in some of the hottest and most humid parts of the country this summer and have salty, damp hands especially at events such as baseball games, barbecues, or other outdoor activities. having bare metal antennae purposely handled will absolutely short the signal."
It has been suggested that users purchase a $29 Apple Bumper to insulate the iPhone 4 and improve its reception. The biochemist believes a cheaper solution is available: in addition to washing hands, spraying a hydrophobic, dampness-blocking coating on the iPhone 4's metal antenna could also do the trick.  This spray would create a long-lasting thin layer of plastic onto the device, similar to what encases soda cans. If this solution is sound, it would beat an iPhone 4 recall or design change and probably could help Apple resolve possible lawsuits. Imagine Apple Geniuses offering iPhone 4 users “free sprays" at Apple Stores!  Maybe there could be an Apple scent for that.

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