In a press conference held today, Apple CEO Steve Jobs took to the stage, and pointed out that many cell phones show a drop in bars when they are held in a certain way, not just the iPhone 4. Jobs demonstrated the drop of bars by showing the same behavior with the Blackberry Bold 9700, HTC Droid Eris, and the Samsung Omnia II. Jobs stated that all cell phones have "weak spots," and went on to say that only 0.55% of iPhone 4 users out of 3 million have reported any reception problems. Citing return rates for the iPhone 4, Jobs pointed out that the return rate is only 1.7%, and compared it to that of the iPhone 3GS, which was at 6% after the same amount of days following its release. Both numbers are considered below the average rate of return for cell phones.

Continuing with iPhone 4 call and data statistics, Jobs said that by showing off the new antenna design, which also showed where to hold the phone to cover the antenna, the company made it easy to exploit the "weak spot" issue that all phones have. Jobs also stated that the iPhone 4 drops less than one call per 100 over that of the 3GS, but recognizes that a small percentage of users are affected by the issue that has been reported on.

To solve the problem, Apple has released a new iOS 4 update, and will be providing a free case for every iPhone 4 purchased through September 30th. Customers who already purchased the bumper case that Apple sells, will receive a refund. Additionally, since Apple can't make enough cases quickly enough, Jobs said the company is going to source cases. Customers will be able to choose from a choice of cases, and will need to apply online at the Apple Web site beginning late next week to be able to receive one. Those who wish to return their phone instead will be able to do so for a full refund.

As for other iPhone updates, Jobs said that Apple is working on issues that have been reported about the phone's proximity sensor, and a fix should appear in the next software update. Jobs also reported that white iPhone 4 models will begin shipping at the end of the month, and that on July 30th, the iPhone 4 will be released in 17 additional countries.