RIM responds to Apple on BlackBerry Bold attenuation

Well, we really had our apprehensions when Apple sort of mentioned BlackBerry Bold or other devices in the ppt but i think things may have gone bad when they even went on to the extent on putting the same thing on a specially setup antenna page where they not only described the science of signal dropping for iPhone 4 but also BlackBerry Bold 9700 among other devices.

Now RIM has responded back with a measured response, categorically saying, this is Apple’s own design debacle and Apple should not drag the whole industry to it.

Here’s the excerpt of the RIM’s response:

“Apple’s attempt to draw RIM into Apple’s self-made debacle is unacceptable. Apple’s claims about RIM products appear to be deliberate attempts to distort the public’s understanding of an antenna design issue and to deflect attention from Apple’s difficult situation. RIM is a global leader in antenna design and has been successfully designing industry-leading wireless data products with efficient and effective radio performance for over 20 years. During that time, RIM has avoided designs like the one Apple used in the iPhone 4 and instead has used innovative designs which reduce the risk for dropped calls, especially in areas of lower coverage. One thing is for certain, RIM’s customers don’t need to use a case for their BlackBerry smartphone to maintain proper connectivity. Apple clearly made certain design decisions and it should take responsibility for these decisions rather than trying to draw RIM and others into a situation that relates specifically to Apple.”

It will be interesting to see how Apple’s PR responds to this and whether this takes on as a heated debate but I think Apple will avoid heated remarks as they really seem to have problem with their product design…after all we rarely see a blackberry user putting on a case just to avoid signal problems!

You may be interested in reading our iPhone 4 Antenna Issue archives here