A Gribble flange is actually the device that causes electronic and mechanical devices to fail just a few weeks after warranty expires. Accurately tunable to suit different warranty periods. Perfected by Apple to require only a new improved OS every six months or so.
Formerly seen as a money grabbing device to benefit the manufacturer, now seen by Gen Y as no more than a friendly reminder that whatever the device is, it's about time we had a new one. In a different colour.