I like Apple products. I continue to buy them when I can. The latest Apple product I purchased is the iPhone 4, and I couldn’t be happier with it. Unless you’ve been living under a rock, you are probably aware of the withering criticism Apple is enduring for the design of its latest iPhone, which centers around the innovative antenna. Lots and lots of virtual ink has been used up on this story so I won’t rehash it here, except to state that I am fed up with all of the criticism of Apple.

A recent blog post from a prominent Apple news-related blog, written by the blog’s editor-in-chief, is a case in point. The writer discusses the recent Apple press conference hosted by Steve Jobs to address the iPhone 4 antenna issue, and describes the event as “acidic in tone,” and “on the very fine edge of insulting.” The writer also makes some valid points about the data presented by Jobs as being “misleading.”

I think many of the criticisms of Apple about this issue have been valid, but I also think they have been overblown to such a great extent that those who voice them are in danger of choking on their own spittle in their haste to vent their spleens. Get a grip, people. I suppose it would also be futile for me to comment that I am quite happy with AT&T as my service provider; because, you know, Big Well Known Tech Wonks state that AT&T stinks so therefore It Must be the Truth.

Below is a comment I left on the above-linked blog post, fwiw:

I am really heartened by some of the responses to this piece, which in my mind, fits into a pattern of negative harping on Apple that simply does not jive with my own experience with decades-long use of Apple products.

Let me acknowledge that Apple isn’t perfect and I don’t expect them to be. Also to note that I think many criticisms of Apple’s overall culture and of Steve Jobs in particular are likely spot on.

However, what I care about is excellence in product design and execution, as well as excellence in customer support. I have never — EVER – received less than excellence from Apple in these areas and this is why I will continue to purchase, use, and recommend their products.

Instead of being put off by this latest “debacle,” I am put off by the overall attitude projected by this writer and the tone of many recent articles published here.

Let me be clear: I’m fine with criticism of Apple. Truly, I am. What I really mind, though, is a pattern of being critical of them over and over again, of an attitude of just waiting to see what we can criticize next about them. Criticize with *constructive* criticism where criticism is due, praise where praise is due. Provide a balanced perspective.