Well, that would be a valid counterpoint except I haven't read any "widespread" proximity sensor problems with the iPhone. It sounds like something specific to your device -- an isolated issue. Have you spoken to Apple about it?
For what it's worth, my wife's fascinate has had the same type of proximity sensor problem from day 31 (probably before that but never brought to my attention within the exchange/warranty period of course). It pales in comparison to the other functionality issues she deals with on a day-to-day basis.
My iPhone does not currently have this problem.
The only memorable widespread problem that Apple had with the iPhone was the antenna problem. That WAS by all accounts a huge facepalm. If I were writing a disclaimer of sorts, I would add that as Apple grows and sales volume increases, we will likely start to see things slip a bit more. No company has ever been able to support their own weight through infinate growth. Something will give at some time.
With that said, the first paragraph above does bring up a good point: Setting aside the actual devices and functionalities, I love the whole customer support system that Apple has in place. I pay an extra $99 and my device is covered for two years. I don't have to hastle with Verizon's dumb friend Asurion. I can buy my "insurance" (extended warranty rather) directly from the manufacturer. While I've never had to actually partake in the whole system, from what I hear it's genius (pun fully intended).
When people say "Apple doesn't innovate" that's really an ignorant and narrow-focused statement. Most people say that in reference to a specific device or perhaps the specific iDevices.
What they fail to recognize that Apple isn't JUST a designer/developer of hardware and software. They are an entire free-standing organization. While it may be a particualr opinon that they don't innovate when looking through a narrow scope at a specific device or two, you have to give credit where credit is due. They've "innovated" a business model that is superior to others in the market and not easily copied.
Sure, they didn't invent extended warranties or customer service. But I like the wikipedia defination of Innovation for this particualr point being made:
