Apple launches iPhone 4 Case Program app

A week after promising free bumper cases to iPhone 4 customers impacted by the smartphone's much-discussed reception issues, Apple (NASDAQ:AAPL) introduced the iPhone 4 Case Program application, enabling consumers to apply for their bumper directly via mobile device. Available now for download via Apple's App Store, the free iPhone 4 Case Program app promises an iPhone 4 Bumper or "other select third-party case from Apple at no charge"--the computing giant adds the two-tone bumpers are "made of durable rubber and molded plastic," and signal "a fun and unique way to personalize your iPhone 4." Consumers who purchased their iPhone 4 prior to July 23 must apply for their bumper no later than Aug. 22--to qualify for the program, shoppers must buy their iPhone 4 by Sept. 30, and apply within 30 days of purchase. Bumpers are slated to ship between two and four weeks.

Last week Apple posted revenues of $15.7 billion during its fiscal third quarter, beating Wall Street estimates as earnings increased more than 77 percent year-over-year to $3.25 billion. During the quarter ending June 26, Apple sold close to 8.4 million iPhones--the new iPhone 4, released on June 24, has now sold about 3 million units. The computing giant also shipped 3.27 million iPad tablet devices during the period. Sales in Apple's iTunes digital storefront increased 25 percent year over year, topping $1 billion during the quarter; the App Store now offers over 225,000 applications optimized for the iOS platform, including 11,000 expressly optimized for the iPad, and downloads now top 5 billion.

For more on the iPhone 4 Case Program app:
- check out the Apple website

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