I received a batch of cases today, and other than a case that I already had one of, and had previously reviewed, this one was by far my favorite. Part of that is probably because I am a big fan of flip cases, part of it is due to the functionality of the case.
This case was kind of cool, mainly because of the grid-shaped bumpy texture on the back side of it. But it was also functional; it protected all the edges with only a hole for the dock connector and headphones.
Although it must be difficult thinking of a unique selling-point for a gadget case (unless you’re Otterbox, in which case you just invite reviewers to pretty much batter your product), it’s conversely the very simple concepts that can make or break a product. Maximising the use of every aspect is one such way, and it’s that which PRIE have done with their new TouchStand case for the iPod Touch. What’s clever is that while the big clip on the rear of the case is ideal for hooking it onto your waistband or bag, it also has a clever flip-up bar that instantly turns the whole thing into a desk stand.
So I got this case kind of late last night, so I chose to play with it for a while before reviewing it. You’re probably wondering how you “play” with an iPod Case, well I had my methods, but they claim its “waterproof, dustproof, dirtproof, sandproof, and drop-proof” and I can personally assure to that all of those are true, that’s how you play with an iPod case.When I got it, I looked it over, figured out how to put my iPod in, and then closed it up, from there, every time I would have normally placed my iPod somewhere; I threw it there, which was so much fun. Then I took it in the bath with me and threw some (a lot) water on it, none got inside, but I didn’t feel like submerging it because I though that might be pushing it, and they may have sent me the case to try out, but I had to supply my own iPod which I don’t feel like ruining.
They have a rubber, sealed button that works with the “home” button, or the little round button at the bottom of the screen, it works flawlessly. The touchscreen is covered by a rugged transparent material that has survived my beating, and I can still use the touchscreen through this material, in fact, I’d go so far as to say my typing has improved, likely due to the lack of slipping fingers onto other keys.
You may be top of the class with your iPod Touch, lording it over all the no-name alternatives out there, but if the battery dies then you’re left with a slender slab of Apple-branded uselessness. So if you’ve a habit of pushing things as far as recharging goes, you may be pleased to hear that Mophie are bringing out a combination iPod Touch case and external battery called the Juice Pack in January 2008.
XtremeMac have already produced a number of rubbery, silicon cases for the iPod Touch, but if your PMP is more boardroom than teenager’s-bedroom then you may be interested in their latest range. Crafted from padded leather panels, the Verona line consists of a flip-case with integral stand, a sleeve and a belt holster and is available in a choice of colours and finishes.
Tunewear sells a wide variety of cases and accessories for most of Apple’s portable products, but this time it’s a case for the iPod touch. The Icewear case is made of tough silicone and has Tunewear’s patented “rib technology” for a strong grip.
Though the case does not cover the screen, we have all seen in pasts tests that the screen is probably the most rugged part of the entire iPod touch or iPhone. Leaving it unprotected allows for maximum use of the phone while still having the rest of it protected.
If this doesn’t show just how popular the iPod touch jailbreak is, I don’t know what will. Seen in the picture is an iPod touch with iSkin’s model “touch”, and most importantly; installer.app, ApolloIM, and what appears to be finder.
Jailbreaking is catching on amongst users, while I personally think the iPod touch and iPhone are both ridiculously boring without 3rd party apps and definitely have more of a potential selling. The multitouch screen is revolutionary and with games such as “Hockey” from iApp-a-Day, the iPhone and iPod touch’s potential is clearly shown.
Having very few practical skills myself, I’m more than happy to choose from the multitude of aftermarket iPod Touch cases (such as can be found in our own Accessories Store), but if you’re handier with a Dremel then maybe you’d like to emulate Michael Dinsmore’s DIY wooden case. Constructed using scrap plywood and pine, the flip-top sheath has a spring-mounted false-bottom that cushions the iPod from knocks and jolts.
On October 31st XtremeMac introduced a new SportWrap armband for the iPod Touch, and the rest of the iPod Family including the iPhone. The SportWrap comes in a basic black and will not cover up any important controls.
The new design is the result of testing involving workout enthusiasts and product designers, whose goal was to make “The Most Comfortable Armband Ever Made”. The body is made of out of neoprene and has an adjustable strap that is trimmed with a soft and stretchable material. The armband is designed to fit any arm and will not slip off your arm during vigorous use. The face of the iPod Touch is covered with a clear flexible plastic that will allow full access to the touch screen, and the back is protected from moisture by a neoprene backing.
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