Firmware update is causing iPhone woes
Apple’s recently released iPhone 3.1 firmware appears to be introducing new problems to the device.
The update, which brings improved syncing for media, better Wi-Fi performance and a remote lock option to the iPhone, is reportedly causing faults in functionality and in some cases is rendering the device unusable.
The most common complaints amongst users include reduced battery life, random freezing and shutdowns, slow or sluggish performance, problems with Exchange 2007 and incorrectly filed podcasts according to date and name.
Local users have also experienced problems with the 3.1 firmware. In some cases voice and messaging functionality ceased to function while data based applications and services continue to operate correctly.
The update has caused some iPhones to stop functioning entirely. Local technology journalist Duncan McLeod recently experienced a similar problem and revealed via Twitter that it would take “an inordinate amount of time [to get the] iPhone fixed after 3.1 update”.
It appears that the only recourse for iPhone users in this situation is to restore the device to its original factory settings, although doing so removes all user related information and data from the device.
Despite this Vodacom, which has exclusive rights to distribute the iPhone within South Africa, believes that the update has run smoothly thus far.
“The new iPhone firmware is not causing problems with devices,” said Nicolene Visser, Head of Corporate Communications: Business, Industry and Technology at Vodacom.
The company did not give any indication of the recourse local iPhone users have if struck by these problems.
Apple offers a one year international warranty on all products for hardware related problems. Internationally some distributors are offering to repair affected iPhones, perform factory resets and provide users with interim handsets.
Vodacom could not confirm if the company would repair affected devices or offer local owners a replacement package.
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