Apple Preps for Verizon iPhone Launch With New Bumpers, Vacation Blackouts
A YouTube video posted yesterday reveals that Apple has released new bumper models that are compatible with both the existing iPhone 4 and the CDMA iPhone 4 set for release on Verizon next month. With the primary difference in physical features between the two models being the location of the mute switch, Apple has widened the cutout in the bumper to accommodate either switch position.
Apple has also updated its online store with new "B" model numbers for the bumpers, replacing the original "A" models. The company has, however, yet to update its product images to reflect the modified mute switch opening.
Meanwhile, BGR reports that Apple has issued a blackout on vacations for its U.S. retail store employees between February 5th and 18th in order to handle the expected rush generated by the Verizon iPhone when it launches on February 10th. The company is also reportedly planning for extended hours at its store to handle the crush.
Claims of Apple limiting retail employee vacations had been one of key pieces of evidence narrowing down the expected launch date for the device.
Top Rated Comments
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18 months ago
I'm hoping Apple comes out with a better selection of colours as well. I really like the Apple bumper compared to other similar ones, but would like a bit more excitement in the colours!
18 months ago
The "free" bumper won't work as well for Verizon owners, I guess. Decent solution to the problem all the same.
18 months ago
I'm trying to work out what is funnier:
[1] The fact that this "issue" was solved with the smallest bit of lateral thinking i.e. — let's make the hole bigger.
[2] The fact that as far as I could see no one in the tech media or in comments suggested this as a solution.
As an aside, do you think there is an opening in the market for a D.I.Y. AT&T to Verizon iPhone bumper convertor kit. i.e. a sharp knife?
[1] The fact that this "issue" was solved with the smallest bit of lateral thinking i.e. — let's make the hole bigger.
[2] The fact that as far as I could see no one in the tech media or in comments suggested this as a solution.
As an aside, do you think there is an opening in the market for a D.I.Y. AT&T to Verizon iPhone bumper convertor kit. i.e. a sharp knife?
18 months ago
Why bother making a new bumper if the dock connector opening is still the same tiny cut-out? That's the weakest point of the Apple bumper!
18 months ago
I don't know why anyone would spend $29 +tax on that. It's sooo overpriced.
18 months ago
oh man. i'm so happy they made it universal:) thanks apple i love you so much
:apple::apple:
:apple::apple:
18 months ago
I'm glad the bumpers will be backwards compatible!
The bumpers are phony, a ruse to prevent Apple from having to explain why the Verizon phone works so much better than the GSM model.[ Read All Comments ]
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