Software Issues With the iPhone

by Joe Murray
The iPhone has had several software glitches in its history.

The iPhone has had several software glitches in its history.

Andrew H. Walker/Getty Images Entertainment/Getty Images

The iPhone first came on the market in June 2007. Two more versions of the iPhone followed: the 3G and the 3GS. The newest version, iPhone 4, was released in June 2010. Each model of the phone has run a version of Apple's proprietary operating system software called OS or, on the iPhone 4 (and iPod touch), iOS. With each new model, Apple introduced a new operating system. Software issues can stem from glitches in the operating system, the firmware, the on-board software or downloaded application software.

OS 2

When the iPhone 3G launched on July 12, 2008, there were enormous software problems. As John Markoff of the New York Times stated, "...the iPhone was the iCan't." The gridlock was caused by too many users trying to activate their new phone or upgrade the software on their old phone. Also, at the same time Apple switched from .Mac Web service to MobileMe; this transition also had its share of software glitches.

OS 3.1

The iPhone 3.1 OS launched in September, 2009, and was an updated version of the 3.0 software that operated the iPhone 3GS. Users complained of random shutdowns, shortened battery life and odd idiosyncrasies like syncing problems with Exchange e-mail. Future software updates solved these problems.

iOS 4

Apple updated its operating system from OS3 to iOS 4 in June of 2010. The software was available for all versions of the iPhone starting with the 3G. The performance of the iPhone 3G was slowed down considerable with the new software. The software update to iOS 4.1 helped alleviate the problem.

iPhone 4 Reception Strength

iPhone 4 launched with a controversy over the reception strength. Apple claimed that it was a faulty formula in the software that caused the signal strength to be misrepresented, showing more bars than the true signal strength. Many people disagreed with Apple, stating that the issue was caused by the antenna. As CNET reporter Marguarite Reardon stated, "...Apple's explanation--that it is changing the way it calculates the bars--is somewhat misleading."

iPhone 4 Battery Issues

Users complain that the battery life on the iPhone 4 is disappointing. This issue is due to software issues with the power management that cause it not to run optimally.

About the Author

Joe Murray began writing professionally in 1980. As a technical writer, he authored numerous white papers, journals and articles for publications and websites for Hewlett Packard and Intel. Since retiring, Murray has written several home-exchange travel articles for KnowYourTrade.com and CHECtravel, among other outlets. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in philosophy from Santa Clara University.

Photo Credits

  • Andrew H. Walker/Getty Images Entertainment/Getty Images