Choice Seems Limitless When It Comes To IPhone Cases
iPhone cases abound, in a dazzling variety of designs. So rather than trying to include a comprehensive description of each kind (nigh impossible), this article will focus on the common factors that are important to most consumers: Protection, Style, and Enhanced Functionality.
Protection: The iPhone is an expensive investment, a daily, heavily used tool and an attractive accessory. As such, it needs to be protected from knocks and falls, bumps and scratches. The sensitive, multitouch capacitative screen is made of glass and is quite vulnerable, and the device’s slim proportions can sometimes feel alarmingly fragile. Apple assures us that the latest version (4) is hardier than ever, but that is only in comparison to earlier models.
Most people who prioritize protection buy hard cover iPhone cases, usually made from high-grade aluminum or polycarbonate plastic. There are even rugged carbon fiber, Kevlar and titanium-based covers that avid hikers and climbers might prefer (see below). Many protective cases include caps or insulated plugs for the phone’s various output jacks and buttons too.
The flip side of hard protective enclosures is they can add a lot of bulk to that signature svelte silhouette. Do not dismiss slimmer covers out of hand, though, as this is not always the case. There is a wide range of soft covers that do a good job of protection too. These are generally made from textured soft plastics, rubberized foam or certain heavy-weave textiles, and you can find cases that are a good balance of protection and sleekness.
Style: As status symbols, very few gadgets match Apple’s iDevices, and fashion-conscious users and others who treasure individual style are in luck when it comes to iPhone cases. Exclusive designers, talented artists and signature brands from all over the world have turned their attentions to this market, resulting in tons of gorgeous designs.
Whether you like urban street styling, chunky funk, subtle beauty, macho tough or feminine lace, or anything in between, you will find a design (probably several) that you will love. The type of cover itself can be a statement – flips, socks, sleeves, skins and all kinds of enclosures. Some providers will incorporate custom art, logos or signatures for true uniqueness.
Functionality And Enhancement: iDevices are all about features, and the end user is encouraged to customize and add to the already impressive feature set with downloadable apps and store-purchased accessories. Many cases boost or add functionality, for instance:
If you are experiencing call dropout or other connection glitches, chances are you are causing antenna interference by touching the metal rim of the phone. Look for a case that incorporates a ridge, gap or lip around the edges of the phone’s chassis, or for covers that are lauded for boosting signal strength.
Outdoor-activity enthusiasts and avid athletes are well-served by rugged covers combining water protection (some are water- and even immersion-proof). Look out for additional goodies, like built in shock absorption – or a built-in GPS module that will help with orienteering or off-road driving, for instance.
Other added features include caddies/holders for earphones, styluses and other accessories, arm/leg bands, holsters, special clips and fasteners and built in stands. Research your choices online and decide on what kind of features you want before you purchase, and you will find several iPhone cases to fit your budget and lifestyle needs.