Vodafone is seeking to fix software problems on the BlackBerry Storm this week with an update that users can access by going online via their device and updating the software. Software faults on Vodafone’s exclusive handset have given rise to returns and complaints from a sizeable chunk of customers who have been early adopters of devices (which is sometimes a good idea, sometimes not).

Industry sources have reported that the faults affect Storm users that have the auto rotate function. It appears that some users are missing some of the shortcut applications on the device, and there are problems with the Storm’s touch-screen response as well, which has frustrated many customers.

Vodafone has said that the Storm has been one of its fastest selling handsets due to its ultra-slick design. It reflects a move by RIM to introduce BlackBerry to the consumer arena (rather than the business area they occupied and targeted for many years). The operator had anticipated that the device would make up one in six phones sold for Vodafone at one point, which has almost come true so far.

None of this is shocking news: due to Christmas deadlines and the fact that the software is still fairly new, bugs and issues will crop up. It’s part of the process, and its how software works in general. Hopefully, this recent update irons out the major stuff and will help stem the tide of frustration and returns.