Orange UK Blames iPhone 4 Shortages On Antennas, Then Takes It Back

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Some conflicting statements out of Orange UK today. According to TechCrunch EU, Mr. Philip Gradwell called Orange UK to ask why his iPhone 4 delivery had been delayed. He was informed that it was being delayed because of the iPhone 4′s antenna problems.

If you haven’t been following the antenna scandal – the iPhone 4 suffers a dramatic loss in reception when held by certain spots on the metal band around the outside of the device. Some blame it on iOS4, while others have blamed it on Apple’s design and testing.

Regardless, if Orange UK (and other carriers) were delaying shipments because of the antenna problem, it could present a serious issue for Apple. But – when TechCrunch EU contacted Orange UK for comment, they very quickly said that the customer rep who said that was wrong.

They reiterated that they were experiencing record-high demand for the iPhone 4 and that they had sold out. Here’s their official comment:

“Following record consumer demand for a new mobile device on Orange, we’ve now sold through all our initial stock of iPhone 4 handsets. We’re expecting to take delivery of more devices imminently, therefore we recommend new and existing Orange customers either register their interest in store, or check the Orange online shop where they’ll be available shortly.”

As for Philip, he was given a £30 for complaining about the delay originally to the first rep. Then, shortly after the story mentioning him on TechCrunch EU was posted, his iPhone 4 order shipped from Orange. Coincidence?