IPhone 3G Screen turns off when lowering from ear during call

Question

I have my 3rd iPhone; bought it yesterday (last one stolen in Denver Airport). The screen works normally when using the functions other than the phone. When making a call everything is normal but when I put the phone to my ear, I have noticed that the screen does not turn off, however, when lowering the phone to look at the screen during the call, it goes completely blank despite the call still being connected. I tried pushing all the buttons to no avail. I did a reset and also a software restore without success. I discovered that when I lowered the phone during a call and the screen goes blank, I put my warm thumb over the little horizontal sensor above the screen and it would come back on. If I released my thumb it would turn off (the exact opposite of what should happen). I called apple, they said to return the phone because there probably is a hardware issue. I bought it at an ATT store in Santa Barbara, CA; I am told there is a restocking fee to replace the phone!! Amazing, buy a new product, its defective, return it for a new one, and they extract $20 additional dollars from you. Anyone else with a similar problem.

Answer 1

If it is not in a case and it is defective the only way that the AT&T store will swap out the phone for a new one without the restocking fee is if it's under 14 days. After the 14 days you have to bring it to an Apple store for repair or a replacement. I recommend purchasing the iCare warranty through apple, because it will extend the warranty to 2 years on the phone, and when your phone breaks the apple store will replace it on the spot if they can't repair it in the store instead of sending it out for repair and you waiting for it.