Apple looks to fix 3G issues with iPhone update 2.0.2

by Stevie Smith - Aug 19 2008, 07:08

With disgruntled iPhone owners apparently complaining of repeated connectivity issues and conversation cut-offs as their new 3G models inexplicably switch between networks, Apple Inc. has swiftly released firmware update 2.0.2 in an effort to patch the problem.

Made available for the Apple iPhone and its non-telephony iPod Touch stablemate, 2.0.2 is a 248.7MB update that can be downloaded through the official iTunes Store. Notably, this latest update arrives only two weeks after Apple offered up version 2.0.1.

Of course, Cupertino-based Apple is maintaining its usual (annoying) stance of complete radio silence as to exactly what the firmware update addresses, choosing to only outline that it handles unspecified “bug fixes” related to the phone’s operating system.

While official confirmation is highly unlikely, we’re assuming that 2.0.2 has also been quickly thrust out the door to assuage the current complaints of conversation killing that are being attributed to the 3G edition of Apple’s popular smartphone handset.

According to Apple fan site Apple Insider, some of the reported features and functions experiencing change after the 2.0.2 download include faster browsing, typing lag reduction, altered transition from music list to Coverflow, and that Apps now do not require updates.

However, when it comes to the sudden surge of problematic connectivity, initial user reaction to 2.0.2 is returning that the issue remains unsolved at this juncture.

Specifically, Apple’s own support forum service has seen many iPhone 3G users reporting that dropped calls, surf crawl and poor signal strength remain despite the new firmware download.

“I can’t see any improvements,” exclaimed poster ‘curveball,’ who went on to say that his handset was saddled with the “same crappy signal.”

“Still no 3G here (O2 UK) for me,” offered fellow poster ‘musicvan’ on the forum. “So unless the 3G network is down at my so-called 100% coverage area, then nothing has changed.”

However, it’s not all doom and gloom following the embracement of 2.0.2, with a few posters noting that their phone’s signal strength has improved somewhat. Yay.

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