Cases and Covers – Page 15

OtterBox: 10 years of iPhone Protection

2017 marks the 10th anniversary of the Apple iPhone, and OtterBox, a company I thought only made dry boxes, has been making cases for every single model since the original game-changing phone ever since. To mark the milestone, OtterBox hosted an event in San Francisco, CA.

“Pass it On” refers to an iPhone that OtterBox sent to seven cities around the world to highlight the wide variety of cases they make to suit nearly every style you can think of.

The autographed phone itself that traveled the world was on display.

The entire product line was out on display, including a rather curious, squat-looking one. The black and yellow one in the middle is a case for the very first iPhone, next to a case for the newest iPhone X. As of this writing, the iPhone X has not been released for sale yet. However, OtterBox had this rugged full-size sample on display. Note the vertically-oriented lens cutout.

Did you know that Lifeproof is also under the OtterBox family? I didn’t know!

Here’s another iPhone X prototype. Unlike most Lifeproof cases I’m familiar with, this one doesn’t have a front cover, so it’s mostly “splash resistant”. However, the newest iPhones already have a degree of water resistance, but this case has a black rubbery seal around the opening to keep some moisture out.

Not to be outdone by the likes of Yeti and other premium coolers, OtterBox also had one of their Venture coolers on display. This one is the Venture 25, which has a 25 quart capacity. Also available in 45 and 65 quart. The Venture features latches that can be operated with one hand quite easily, plus modular accessories such as dividers, cutting boards, and external attachments. The Venture coolers are actually made in Detroit. Yes, I was surprised, too. That tiny gap in the rubber seal is designed to allow pressure equalization to avoid situations where you can’t open the lid after a change in altitude. With two-inch thick refrigerator-grade insulating foam that will keep ice for 14 days, I can attest that this thing feels built to last. And if you’re wondering, it is certified bear-resistant, and prices start at $249.99.

I was sent home with this Pursuit-series iPhone case for my model 7 Plus. The Pursuit is one of OtterBox’s slimmest yet rugged case.

The case comes in two halves. The front half has no cover, but it keeps the screen inset so the screen doesn’t lay flat. An OtterBox tech on site suggested assembling the case with the phone face down into the “front” part of the case first. I noticed a foam ring around the camera cut out. Nice touch. See where the speaker cutouts are? Those audio “holes” actually have a membrane to resist liquids.

That tiny hole on the bottom can accommodate a lanyard (not included)

It’s a little hard to see, but the sleep toggle switch above the volume is actually a rotary cam switch.

The back of this particular color combo is actually a deep blue.

Here I am peeling back the charging connector. Note how the audio “holes” tilt forward instead of down.

To read more about OtterBox and their family of products, please visit OtterBox.com.

Filed in categories: Articles

Tagged: Cases and Covers, Trip Report

OtterBox: 10 years of iPhone Protection originally appeared on The Gadgeteer on September 22, 2017 at 8:00 am.

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ThanoTech K11 iPhone Bumper review

When I recently switched to an iPhone 7 Plus, I felt the need to find a case to protect my investment without adding a lot of extra weight and bulk. When I stumbled upon the ThanoTech K11 Bumper while doing some online shopping, I knew I had to try it. Let’s check it out.

What is it?

The ThanoTech K11 is a bumper style case for the iPhone made of anodized aluminum and flexible TPU. It’s a way to protect the iPhone from up to a 16-foot drop without adding the bulk of a full coverage case.

The K11 is available in black, silver, gold, rose gold, and red. I was sent the silver version.

The K11 is a bumper style case that only covers the outside edges of the phone, which doesn’t sound like it would be very protective, but bumper features two layers of material. There’s an interior layer that’s made of TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane) and an exterior shell of 6063 T6 aircraft grade anodized aluminum. TPU is a hybrid material that’s a mixture of hard plastic and soft silicone. It helps absorb shock from drops and can protect the iPhone from up to a 16ft drop when it’s in this case.

The cool thing about the combination of TPU and aluminum is that the TPU makes the bumper flexible and that makes it much easier to insert and remove the phone.

Installation is simple. Just put the bottom corners in the bumper snap the top edges in place. It takes only a little effort, but you won’t feel like you’re going to snap the phone in half like I’ve felt with other iPhone cases and bumpers.

Once seated, you still have access to all the iPhone’s ports and buttons. The lightning port cutout on the bottom edge is large enough to fit most 3rd party cables. I’ve yet to find one that is too large.

On the left edge of the bumper, there is a cutout for the mute switch and individual buttons for volume. Unlike some cases, that have molded buttons, the K11 has individual metal buttons that provide excellent tactile feedback.

You’ll find the same type of button over the power button on the opposite side of the phone.

And on the back of the phone, you’ll see that the entire back of the iPhone is exposed. The front and back edges of the bumper are raised so that the front and back of the phone is slightly elevated when placed on a flat surface.

The area above the camera lens is raised evfurtherter to protect the camera lens.

If you’re worried about scratches, ThanoTech includes a protector that you can install on the back of the phone. Actually, they include two back protectors with the Kll Bumper

The K11 is pretty minimal as far as cases go, but it does add some width all the way around the phone. If you have small pants pockets, you might notice that you have less wiggle room when using your phone in this case and you try to put it in your pocket.

You might be wondering if the aluminum has a negative impact on your signal reception. The answer is no, it doesn’t due to the layer of TPU that’s between the phone and the aluminum. I’ve noticed no issues with signal strength degrading in the weeks that I’ve been using this bumper case on my iPhone 7 Plus.

Final thoughts

I had not heard of ThanoTech before reviewing their K11 Bumper. I’m impressed with how nice their products are. They look sharp and are really well made. They also sent me a charging adapter for the car which is made of stainless steel which is extra nice.

Bumper cases might not be right for everyone, but for people who want drop protection without completely covering every surface of their phone, the ThanoTech K11 Bumper is an option.

Source: The sample for this review was provided by ThanoTech. Please visit their site for more info and Amazon to order.

Product Information

Price:	$34.95
Manufacturer:	ThanoTech
Retailer:	Amazon
Pros:	Easy to install Easy to remove Edges raised to keep screen, camera, and back from scratching Less bulk than a full coverage case
Cons:	Does add some width to the phone

Filed in categories: Reviews

Tagged: Bumper case, Cases and Covers, iPhone

ThanoTech K11 iPhone Bumper review originally appeared on The Gadgeteer on September 21, 2017 at 1:58 pm.

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While you wait to pre-order the iPhone X, shop for a case to protect it

Whenever top-tier companies like LG, Samsung, and Apple roll out a new smartphone, my inbox starts bursting at the seams with emails from vendors who are excited to announce cases and accessories for the new devices. As you would guess, since this past Tuesday, I’ve been drowning in emails about new iPhone 8, 8 Plus, X cases. I spent the afternoon going through all those emails and picked some of my notable iPhone X cases to share with you.

EasyAcc

EasyAcc sent me a few of their iPhone X cases before the iPhone X was officially announced this week. The cases were so new, that they were called iPhone 8 cases on the packaging!

We’ve reviewed EasyAcc products in the past and have been happy with the quality with budget prices which will be important once you spend a grand or more on the new iPhone X.

At the time of this writing, EasyAcc is offering eight cases that range in price from $7.99 for the Thin Fit Slim Soft TPU Protective Cover with Matte Finish (shown above), to the $12.99 Armor Design Protective Hard Back Shell Cover Dual Layer Protection Shockproof Bumper Case.

You can see all the EasyAcc iPhone X cases on Amazon and you can save 30% if you use the code 794IJYCN (expires 11/30/17).

CalypsoCase

On the other end of the budget spectrum, we have luxury iPhone X cases from CalypsoCase which are made in Europe. The cases are available in several styles and colors that include the Cabrio which is shown above, as well as a book and slipcover style case. You’ll need to sit down before I tell you the price. Ready? The price for the cases is $249. Whew! The cases start shipping on 10/24/17.

You can check out the Cabrio, Silhouette, and book cases at www.calypsocrystal.com.

Rokform

Let’s go back to a case that doesn’t require that you put a kidney on eBay. Rokform offers cases like the new iPhone 8 Crystal Cases that have their patented twist-lock mounting system built in that will let you mount your phone on bicycles, motorcycles, cars, and more. A magnetic car vent mount is included with the case which is priced at $49.99. You can pre-order it now at rokform.com

Nomad

I really like the look of the Nomad cases for the iPhone X. The Clear Case X has a unique design with a section of Horween leather that has been fused to a polycarbonate case with a rubber TPE bumper. The Rugged Case X has an all leather back. Both are only $39.95 and you can save 10% if you give them your email address when you order. Visit www.hellonomad.com for all the details.

Grovemade

If you prefer a phone case that uses wood to one that uses leather, the new Minimalist Tough case from Grovemade might be more to your liking. It features an aluminum frame that is wrapped in an elastomer band and a back made from Walnut. I’m not quite sure if the term “minimalist” is a good one though as the cases at least in the images on their site look pretty thick and bulky.

I don’t agree with calling it a “minimalist” a case though as the images on their site make it look thick and bulky.

You can pre-order the case for $99, but be aware that it doesn’t ship until December. Visit Grovemade for more info.

So there are a few ideas for iPhone X cases. Which one looks the most interesting to you? I’m leaning towards the super thin and super inexpensive EasyAcc or the Rugged X case from Nomad.

Filed in categories: News

Tagged: Cases and Covers, iPhone X

While you wait to pre-order the iPhone X, shop for a case to protect it originally appeared on The Gadgeteer on September 16, 2017 at 4:34 pm.

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RhinoShield iPhone 7 Plus cases review

I recently switched to an iPhone 7 Plus which means I’ve been on the hunt for cases that will protect my expensive phone from scratches and falls, but aren’t overly bulky. I asked the folks at RhinoShield if they could send me one of their Crashguard Bumper cases because I am a minimal kinda girl. They sent the Crashguard along with the PlayProof and SolidSuit iPhone cases, so let’s take a look.

RhinoShield SolidSuit Brushed Steel Finish Case for iPhone 7 Plus

This case comes in white or black. I was sent the black version of this polymer blend case. The back of the case has a modern geometric design with two panels that look like brushed steel, but the panels are not real steel because that would play havoc with the iPhone’s antenna/signal. From what I can tell they are plastic.

The interior of the case has a layer of soft suede to protect the back of the iPhone.

The sides of the case have a honeycomb pattern that is designed to add impact absorbing properties to the case which can protect the iPhone from up to an 11ft drop.

The SolidSuit case has an oval cutout on the back of the case for the iPhone’s dual camera and flash.

On the right side is a built-in button over the iPhone’s power button.

And on the opposite side, you’ll find buttons over the phone’s volume buttons and a cutout for the mute switch. The buttons all work fine, but it is a little hard to flip the mute switch because it’s recessed due to the sides of the case.

On the bottom of the SolidSuit case, there are holes for the speakers and a cutout for the lightning connector.

You’ll also notice from the picture above that the sides of the case are raised higher than the display, which helps protect the display from scratches when it is face down.

I have no doubt that my iPhone 7 Plus is well protected in the SolidSuit. The case feels substantial and does add some extra bulk, but not too much.

I like that the case feels sturdy and that I know my phone is protected, but the biggest problem that I have with the SolidSuit is that it’s really hard to remove your phone from the case once it’s snapped in place. I got a little panicked when I tried to extract my iPhone because it felt like I was going to break the phone or my thumbs trying to remove it. After a lot of swearing and some perspiration, I was finally successful, but it made me reconsider of putting my phone back in the case.

Price: $34.99
From RhinoShield
From Amazon

Pros: Rugged, 11ft drop protection
Cons: Tough to remove phone from the case

Clear PlayProof iPhone 7 Plus case

This case is similar to the SolidSuit except that the back of the case is see through so everyone can still see the Apple logo.

The back of the case has a matte finish that gives it a nice grip.

The PlayProof case is available with a black, clear, or pink bumper. As you can see, I was sent the black version.

The case has a cutout for the dual camera, mute switch, speaker grills, and lightning connector. It has covered buttons for power and volume.

The PlayProof case has the same honeycomb pattern design inside the bumpers to absorb impact and like the SolidSuit, your iPhone will be protected from falls up to 11ft. and the lip around the screen protects the display too.

I liked this case best of the three cases that RhinoShield sent me to review mainly because it wasn’t nearly as hard to remove my phone. Don’t get me wrong, it still takes some effort to remove the iPhone from the PlayProof case, but it won’t make you sweat and fearful that you’re going to snap the phone in half.

Price: $24.99
From RhinoShield
From Amazon

Pros: Rugged, 11ft drop protection
Cons: None

CrashGuard Bumper Case for the iPhone 7 Plus

As I mentioned in the first paragraph of this review, the CrashGuard Bumper case was the RhinoShield case that I really wanted to try.

The “case” is available in a large selection of colors, but I chose the red one because I thought it would look pretty cool with my black iPhone.

The bumper case has a large cutout for the mute switch and covered power and volume buttons.

The case is basically an open frame that only covers the iPhone’s edges. But like the other RhinoShield cases that I’ve talked about in this review, the CrashGuard Bumper case also has reinforced corners and a special shock absorbing honeycomb structure that will protect your phone from up to an 11ft drop.

There are also large openings for the speakers and lightning connector.

Installing the iPhone 7 Plus in the CrashGuard Bumper case takes some thumb strength to snap it in place, but once it’s seated, it looks really nice.

The sides of the bumper wrap around the iPhone’s edges to protect the top and bottom surfaces.

I was really happy with this case until I needed to remove my iPhone to test one of the other RhinoShield cases. At that point, I was even more panicked than when I tried to remove the Solidsuit case because the CrashGuard Bumper didn’t want to budge at all.

I tried and tried so many times that I thought my thumbs were bruised. I had Jeanne try it too and she didn’t have any luck either.

I finally gave up and took drastic measures to remove the bumper case by cutting it off with some snips. Luckily the area around the mute switch opening was perfect for this task and one tiny snip was all that was needed for the bumper to spring open.

Afterwards, I wondered if I was the only one with this problem, so I checked some reviews on Amazon for the CrashGuard Bumper case and found that others had resorted to the same solution that I had.

Price: $24.99
From RhinoShield
From Amazon

Pros: Rugged, 11ft drop protection
Cons: Almost impossible to remove the iPhone from the case

Final thoughts

RhinoShield makes some nice looking cases for the iPhone that provide above a military level grade of drop protection while not adding tons of bulk. The only problem is that some of their cases (Solidsuit and CrashGuard) are really tough to remove once the phone is in the case. I guess this isn’t a problem if you never need to remove your phone. But for someone like me who enjoys testing new cases, the non-ability to easily switch cases make the Solidsuit and the CrashGuard Bumper cases a bad choice for me. The PlayProof case, on the other hand, worked out fine and I’m happy to recommend that one.

Source: The sample for this review was provided by Rhinoshield. Please visit their site for more info and Amazon to order.

Product Information

Price:	$24.99 – $34.99
Manufacturer:	Rhinoshield
Retailer:	Amazon
Pros:	See each review above
Cons:	See each review above

Filed in categories: Reviews

Tagged: Cases and Covers, iPhone Case

RhinoShield iPhone 7 Plus cases review originally appeared on The Gadgeteer on September 6, 2017 at 3:50 pm.

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Now you can make cool stuff for the Otterbox uniVERSE case

You know how the Moto smartphones have Moto Mods that snap on the back of the phones? Now you can get some of that same functionality for your iPhone with the uniVERSE Case System from Otterbox and you can even make your own mods.

The Otterbox uniVERSE case has a slot in the back that allows a variety of accessories to mount to the back of the iPhone 6, 6 Plus, 7, and 7 Plus. Some accessories include backup batteries, speakers, wallets, extra memory, and more.

Otterbox has just released CAD files for the uniVERSE case system accessory mount so that makers can design and 3D print their own accessories.

“One of the core values at OtterBox is innovation, which is why we created the uniVERSE Case System,” said OtterBox CEO Jim Parke. “We’re inviting the community of innovators around the world to customize their mobile experience by designing their own accessories.”

To learn more about OtterBox uniVERSE and download the accessory mount CAD files, visit www.otterbox.com/universe-cad and you can shop for uniVERSE cases on Amazon.

Filed in categories: News

Tagged: Cases and Covers, Do-It-Yourself

Now you can make cool stuff for the Otterbox uniVERSE case originally appeared on The Gadgeteer on August 27, 2017 at 2:17 pm.

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