Are you having reception problems?

A lot of my friends with iPhone 4's are having reception problems. This is caused by two things, one of which can be changed easily. When Apple designed the iPhone 4, it put part of the antennae in the metal strip at the side of the phone. When you hold it with your bare hand, touching this strip weakens the signal. Apple have recognised this problem, and should fix it in the next model.

For those of you with the current model 4, and this doesn't apply to the 3 series, you need a case which in some way covers the metal strip and stops the signal dropping out. I know some people like the design exactly as it is, and may even considerer it a fashion accessory, but you do need a case. There are many terrific designs out there to suit all tastes, available either in stores or on eBay.

The second problem is caused by some carriers who are having network and/or software problems. The easy solution is to change carriers, but if you're locked into a contract, this isn't that easy. If you're having real problems, you may be able to get out of your contract. Contact you carrier firstly, then if that doesn't help contact the telecommunications ombudsman, and finally you may wish to take legal advice. Nobody should have to put up with poor reception and these are your current options.