(grĭb′əl flănj)
n.
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.
Ted: 'Where's your new iThingy?'
Bill: 'The Gribble Flange kicked in early - it's in the
shop for repairs.
Hope they forget to reset the timer
chip.'