Free cases for all iPhone 4 users! How does Apple's fix compare to some of gaming's more recent hardware problem solutions? Let's take a look.
Wii Remote Straps
The Problem:
The flimsy Wii remote straps that shipped with early versions of Nintendo's console weren't quite up to the task of securing the controllers to the wrists of players. The straps would snap, sending Wii remotes flying, causing property damage and, in some cases, physical injury.
The Solution:
Nintendo replaced the flimsy launch straps with thicker, stronger versions. Customers that had already purchased the console could call Nintendo for a free replacement. Eventually Nintendo added a non-slip rubber controller jacket to the Wii remote, again distributing them free to existing customers.
The Red Ring of Death
The Problem:
The initial batch of Xbox 360 consoles released by Microsoft were plagued with hardware issues. Failure rates were high, the most prevalent being the fabled red ring of death, three flashing red lights indicating a general hardware failure.
The Solution:
A year and a half after the console's release, Microsoft extended the warranty on the Xbox 360, giving customers experiencing the red ring of death three years from the date of purchase to get systems repaired for free.
DS Lite Cracking Up
The Problem:
North American versions of the Nintendo DS Lite proved prone to developing hairline cracks around the hinges.
The Solution:
Nintendo called the issue a minor problem, but still offered to repair DS Lite hinge cracks free of charge.
Dead PSP Pixels
The Problem:
When Sony first introduced the PlayStation Portable, a large number of users reported dead pixels on the handhelds' shiny new screens.
The Solution:
Though the company called dead pixels a common problem with LCD displays, Sony offered replacements for players plagued with the issue.
Bad PSP Buttons
The Problem:
Dead pixels weren't the only problem plaguing the PSP. The handheld's square button was unresponsive and prone to sticking.
The Solution:
After a brief bout of denial, Sony again agreed to replace the defective handhelds for users.
The Day The PlayStation 3 Died
The Problem:
On March 1, 2010, PlayStation 3 consoles all over the world began having issues with getting online, as well as playing certain games offline, even when not connected to the internet.
The Solution:
Wait a day. 24 hours after the problem began, it went away. Sony blamed an issue with the PlayStation 3's clock functionality.
The iPhone 4's Bad Reception
The Problem:
Apple's iPhone 4 featured more memory, a brighter, higher resolution screen, and reception issues that cause the phone to drop calls and lose signal when gripped a certain way.
The Solution:
Everybody gets a free bumper case, keeping them from touching the phone they spent so much money on, and solving the problem of fingers causing reception issues. If users have already purchased one, Apple will refund the cost. The company also plans to source other cases in order to handle demand, giving customers a selection to choose from.
So how's that for a solution? Free condoms for everyone!
[Apple press conference image courtesy of GDGT. Top image via Flickr.]