The new version of the iPhone was released with 3G technology with the promise that it would improve the slow internet download speeds that had plagued the previous model.

Its much-trumpeted UK launch last month was hit by a software glitch that forced customers who queued up outside stores to wait until long after they opened before they could buy a device.

Now, many who bought the device are complaining of poor reception, saying it makes downloading web pages and making calls slow, unreliable and frustrating.

One user, who logged on to Apple's website as ONW, said: "I have a 16GB black model which I lined up for hours to purchase. I live in central London UK in a full coverage area.

"I get one bar of 3G (signal) at best. The rest of the time it defaults to edge, and even then that disappears.

Another frustrated user, GSUSX, said: "I love the iPhone... it's just a real thing of beauty. I just hope that they can fix this, because at the moment it's like having a very, very good-looking other half who hasn't really got much conversation."

Apple refused to comment on the problems when contacted by Sky News, while network operator O2 said it was aware of "no particular issues" with the phone.

"(The phone) was (subject to) extensive testing before it was launched on the O2 network, and it meets all O2's rigorous network criteria," a spokesman told Sky News.

"If for some reason a customer purchases any handset on the O2 network and finds it does not work, we ask them to call customer services to let us know so we can investigate."

Stuart Miles, editor of gadget and new technology website Pocket Lint, said the industry was well aware of the problems, but he did not think it would damage Apple's long-term business.

"I think the problem that Apple has is that they've only had a mobile phone arm for less than two years," he told Sky News.

"If you've bought one there's nothing much you can do about it, but if you haven't it might put you off.

"Interest in the company is so strong, and this is just one of their product lines. If there was a problem with their laptops it would hit them harder because it's one of their core businesses."


"I didn't buy the 1st generation iPhone as i was waiting for this model. Now that I have it I don't know why I bothered waiting as clearly it just isn't any good."