Apple offers free bumpers for iPhone 4

iPhone 4 users can get a free bumper to correct the antenna issue

Apple has agreed to offer iPhone 4 users the choice of a full refund or a free 'bumper' as a solution to the handset's antenna problems.

The company will soon offer details on how users can obtain the rubberised linings that wrap around the handset's stainless steel band and prevent interference from contact with the hand.

The bumpers will be offered until 30 September, while users will have 30 days from date of purchase to return undamaged handsets for a refund.

The interference issue has been a hot topic since the iPhone 4 launched in June. The built-in antenna became blocked when users held the phone around the bottom left-hand corner, and the reception was reduced.

Apple had previously recommended that people hold the device in other ways or purchase a bumper or case. The company originally attributed the issue to the software which displays signal strength, although later third-party tests suggested that the problem was hardware related.

The issue has generated plenty of bad press for Apple, but analyst firm Gartner believes that the so-called 'antennagate' saga will not have much impact on the company's pocketbook or customer base in the long run.

"The financial implications will be limited as the bumpers will probably cost a few cents to manufacturer," Carolina Milanesi, vice president of mobile device research at Gartner, told V3.co.uk.

"As far as the consumer confidence, Apple lovers will continue to love Apple, anti-Apple people will have one more reason to feel that way, and the majority of consumers out there will move on to other things very soon."