Apple, the electronics company, has released its free bumper cases to iPhone 4 customers. The company has started shipping the bumper-style cases and has sent e-mail announcements to customers.

An e-mail from the Apple store reads, "We are pleased to inform you that one or more of your items has shipped." Orders that came in on July 16, when the company first announced that it would be giving the bumper cases away, would have a delivery date of August 3. Apple previously announced that the cases would be delivered in three to five weeks.

For iPhone 4 owners to get the free case, they are required to download Apple's iPhone 4 Case Program app and follow the instructions within. Buyers who purchased the smartphone before July 23 can order the bumper case until August 22. Customers who purchase the device after the date can obtain a free case until September 30.