Consumer Reports blasted the iPhone 4 when it first came out for AT&T, citing reception problems. You may recall Apple’s "antennagate" scandal, where it gave away free bumpers to make up for the issue. Now, Consumer Reports is making a similar case for Verizon’s incarnation of the iPhone 4.

The nonprofit organization says, "Bottom Line: The Verizon iPhone 4 closely resembles the original AT&T iPhone 4 in many positive respects, including offering great multimedia functionality, a sharp screen, and the best MP3 player we’ve seen on a phone. Unfortunately, it also shares with its sibling the possibility of compromised performance in low-signal conditions when used without a bumper or case."

"We looked at five other smartphones in the verizon network, and none of them have this problem," said Consumer Reports’ Mike Gikas. "While the Verizon iPhone is highly rated, we’re not adding it to the list of our recommended smartphones."

While the approval of Consumer Reports clearly hasn’t been a huge obstacle for Apple’s sales in the past, one can’t help but wonder how much better they would have been otherwise. There are a lot of people that look to the organization for guidance on purchases. 

Consumer Reports has given recommendations for numerous Android devices in the smartphone category. 

Consumer Reports does have an iPhone app that it launched in the fall. The app, which costs $9.99 provides users with access to ratings, recommendations, brand reliability information, and buying advice for appliances, electronics, children’s products, care care, and home products.