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Element Case Sector 5 Black Ops Elite: The tactical case for your iPhone 5
Element Case is one of the few iPhone case manufacturers we talk to on a regular basis that continues to innovate with impressive designs that are entirely different from the mainstream. Whether it's their wood, aluminum and leather Ronin or the original Sector 5 case, you can be certain that an Element Case is going to be something that stands out from the crowd. Today we're taking a look at the Element Case Sector 5 Black Ops Elite (US$219.95), which is the perfect case for the Navy SEAL, SWAT team member, or tactical team wannabe in your life. We're giving our review case away, so stick around until the end of the review. Design To get the amazing look of this design, Element Case worked alongside Hogue, a manufacturer of handgun grips, rifle stocks, knives and holsters. Hogue's G10 material is used for the back plate of the case and the knurled side grips as well. G10 is described by Element Case as "a high-pressure thermoset plastic laminate consisting of multiple layers of woven fiberglass mesh cloth impregnated with an epoxy resin binder." In other words, this stuff is tough! %Gallery-189215% As usual, the frame of the Sector 5 Black Ops Elite is made of ultrathin CNC machined aluminum for light weight and strength. There's a clip on the back of the case, but a tactical holster is also included for extra protection. Speaking of protection, you can make sure that your SWAT team buddies aren't able to see the incoming FaceTime call from your girlfriend since a Stealth privacy screen protector is included. What else is included? You're going to need to know how to field strip this case in the dark with your eyes closed (just kidding), so Element Case throws in a little speed wrench to help in installation and removal. The case comes in four different finishes. There's a black case with black G10 inserts, a black case with OD Green G10, a Desert Tan case with black G10, and Desert Tan with Dark Earth G10. Our review case came in the black and OD Green scheme, which looks extra sexy in my personal opinion. Functionality Like all Element Cases, the Sector 5 Black Ops Elite has a little bit of assembly required. You need to install the aluminum frame first, then install the back plate. The clip on the back plate can be oriented in one of two positions -- once again, you'll need to remove and then replace a pair of Torx screws and some spacers to do so. For the purposes of giving the review case away, I did not install the "rash guards" that are used to prevent scratching of the iPhone 5's frame, nor did I install the screen protector. The adhesive on the back plate is designed for removal. Removing the upper right screw on the case with the included wrench took only a few moments, and then the case opened up like a watch band to wrap around the iPhone 5. There's a bit of what looks like neoprene padding in several key areas, keeping the aluminum frame from directly transmitting shocks from drops and bumps to the aluminum frame of the iPhone 5. Of course, not that long ago Element changed the design of the Sector 5 cases to include small amber plastic pieces that allow for more flexibility of the frame in case it is dropped onto a corner. Once the frame is installed, it's time to clean the back of the iPhone 5 with the included alcohol-soaked cleaning wipe. When the back of the iPhone is completely dry, you remove the backing on the G10 back plate and then press the back plate onto the phone. The adhesive for the back plate doesn't cover the bottom half-inch or so, providing a small area to pry off the back if you want to remove it. I liked the feel of the Sector 5 Black Ops Elite -- it's extremely rigid and solid. The belt clip grips well but is easy to install and remove from a belt, and the included tactical holster wouldn't look out of place on the equipment belt of any SWAT team member. The look of the case is amazing as well; Element Case made the Sector 5 Black Ops Elite look futuristic, while the Ronin it shares lineage with looks surprisingly steampunk. The use of Hogue G10 material on the case is pure genius. The material is used for Hogue's line of handgun grips, rifle stocks, and knives (in the handles) and it is not only strong, but has a completely unique look to it. The price of the case definitely puts it into the luxury category, but as the old adage goes, "You get what you pay for." Here's a case that should keep your iPhone 5 protected and lookin' good for years to come. Conclusion It's not the case for everyone, but Element Case has another winner on their hands with the Sector 5 Black Ops Elite. If your tastes tend toward the tactical, you'll love this case. Pros The combination of machined aluminum and Hogue CNC machined G10 make this a strong yet lightweight case One-of-a-kind tactical accessory look Included tactical belt holster adds even more protection Element Case's redesign of the Sector 5 case includes more flexibility in corners for better drop protection Cons A bit expensive, but who's worried about the price tag? Who is it for? The iPhone 5 owner who wants something strong and unique protecting his or her investment Giveaway So, does this case have you drooling yet? One TUAW reader is going to get to take our review unit out into the field -- it could be you! Here are the rules for the giveaway: Open to legal US residents of the 50 United States, the District of Columbia and Canada (excluding Quebec) who are 18 and older. To enter, fill out the form below completely and click or tap the Submit button. The entry must be made before May 26, 2013 11:59PM Eastern Daylight Time. You may enter only once. One winner will be selected and will receive a Element Case Sector 5 Black Ops Elite iPhone 5 case valued at $220 Click Here for complete Official Rules. Loading...
Element Case's Ronin case for iPhone 5: Lightweight luxury (updated)
A few weeks ago I received a PR blast from Element Case about their new Ronin case for iPhone 5 ($199.99) and just had to write a short post about it due to its unique and gorgeous design. The case uses a combination of nickel-plated aluminum, exotic wood, and leather in a design that is stunning, yet featherlight. Design What can you say about a case that comes with its own case? With a $200 iPhone case, you'll want to make sure that your iPhone 5 and the Ronin case are getting protection. That's why the Ronin comes with a leather protective wallet as well. When I say that the Ronin is lightweight, I mean it. It registered a scant 0.6 oz (17 gm) on my postal scale. As with many of the Element Case products, the Ronin requires some installation smarts. You need to remove one screw with an included tool, pull open the case, wrap it securely around your iPhone 5, then tighten all of the screws on the case. Once that's done, you install a leather backplate. Two are included with the Ronin -- one that's "genuine leather" and the other that is made of Ultrasuede. %Gallery-173502% There are "rash strips" that need to be installed on the outside of the case to keep it from scuffing the finish of your iPhone 5; extra strips are included should you they need to be replaced. Element Case also includes a cleaning cloth and screen protector for your iPhone in the box, as well as extra screws. The leather protective wallet is a nicely designed piece of work as well. It's slender, made of two colors (brown and black) of leather, with a Velcro closure to keep your iPhone and Ronin nicely protected. The leather backplates are interchangeable; Element Case provides a tack sheet onto which you can stick the backplate that's not currently in use. That's a nice touch, something I guess you should expect with a $200 iPhone case! Functionality iPhone cases are all about two things: protecting your iPhone and making it look nice. Up until this point, I hadn't seen a case that would make me actually cover up the iPhone 5. The Ronin changed that. I did have one gripe about the case; for $200, it sure requires a lot of installation. Many people who can afford to pay that much for a case probably have no mechanical skills at all, so there may be a booming cottage industry for installing Element Cases. The instructions were too generic; they were for another one of the Element Case lines, and rather than just removing one screw I found I needed to remove two. Update: The review Ronin was inadvertently packed with the wrong instructions, which Element Cases has remedied. The new instructions are much more clear. The rash strips took a little bit of work to install properly, and I found that the edges that wrap around the beveled sides of the iPhone 5 just wouldn't stick down. Fortunately, the case covers those so uneven edges aren't visible. The exotic wood used on the Ronin case is a bit darker than that seen on the Element Case website, but it still looks beautiful. I installed the Ultrasuede back on the iPhone 5 as I liked the lighter color, and it has a wonderful warm feeling to it. One thing I noticed almost immediately when holding the Ronin/iPhone 5 combo is that the slightly curved edges of the wood make the case much easier to grip than an uncased iPhone 5. The Ultrasuede backplate also reduces the annoying buzz of the iPhone in vibrate mode when it's on a table top to a still-noticeable rumble. Conclusion While the Ronin obviously isn't for everyone, it will appeal to those with a sense of luxury and has a certain steampunk cachet to it. It's certainly the most unique iPhone 5 case I've seen to date, and the construction of the Ronin is top notch. If you're looking for a luxurious Christmas present for the iPhone 5 owner who has everything, you can't go wrong with the Element Case Ronin. Pros Unique. I challenge you to find another case that is made of nickel-plated aluminum, wood, and leather. Extremely well-made. The amount of care taken in both design and manufacturing is obvious. Curved wood sides make the Ronin a joy to hold. Luxurious feel and look. Cons A bit out of the price range of the average iPhone 5 owner. Installation can be a challenge. Who is it for? The iPhone 5 owner who wants a classy case that protects while complementing the design of the smartphone with steampunk good looks.
Review: Joule II iPad stand
The original Joule was nice and simple, featuring a channel for your iPad and an arm to prop up the tube in which that channel was cut. The Joule II doesn't reinvent the original, but improves upon its design in a couple of places. Like most Element Case products, the Joule isn't the cheapest stand by far (US$109.99), but it's one of the nicest. Design The Joule's base has always been a solid aluminum cylinder, machined to precision to hold your iPad (or other tablet) in portrait or landscape. In portrait, there is even a vent port for audio. On the original Joule, the arm had 3 positions, and was held in place by a magnet. With the Joule II, Element Case has eliminated the magnet in favor of a simple threaded armature and a hole that moves with some resistance, so you have a bit more control over the angle. There's a new vent port for audio, this time a series of holes cut through the beefy aluminum base cylinder. The channel is less specific to the iPad these days, but it's clearly designed with the iPad as one of the primary target customers. The channel for your tablet is generous without feeling like your iPad could flop out somehow. Also, the suede interior slightly grips, and avoids the scratching of aluminum on glass. Functionality It's an iPad stand and it does what it says. The Joule II comes with a handy zippered case, and the heft of the base makes it ideal in a number of situations where you need a stable base, but may need to grab the iPad easily. The rear armature's mechanism works very well, and in several days of use I didn't notice it getting looser. While I worry a bit about longevity (versus the previous design), it feels sturdy enough to last for years. Who is it for? Anyone with the cash available who needs a sturdy, attractive and useful stand. It's capable of being packed easily but looks great, so I could see some business and commercial applications as well.
Element Case's Ronin iPhone 5 case: Wood, metal, leather, beautiful
I'm not going to spoil an upcoming review of the new Element Case Ronin iPhone 5 case by saying too much other than to say that information about this gorgeous US$199.95 hand-crafted case will be available tomorrow on the Element Case website. In the meantime, feast your eyes on this luscious piece of hardware. What makes this stunner different? CNC-machined, aluminum nickel-plated caps CNC-machined Ziricote wood rails Integrated CNC machined button mechanism Stainless steel hardware A premium leather-grain protective wallet Genuine leather protective "Back Plate" Screen protector Made in the USA We'll have a full review as soon as possible. My credit card is standing by to order one.
Road tested: ElementCase's Sector 5 case for the iPhone 5
I didn't know what to think about the ElementCase Sector 5 (SE) iPhone 5 "case." I had been using my iPhone 5 for a while, and I really appreciated the fact that it felt like it didn't need a case. I've lauded ElementCase in the past because the craftsmanship and quality were outstanding. But previous iPhones, with the glass on the back, really did need a case of some kind. I know too many people who have cracked back plates to recommend not getting one. The iPhone 5, in my opinion, rarely needs a case at all. Yet I found myself enjoying the Sector, despite the feeling it may not be completely necessary. Design As usual, the ElementCase used its knowledge of machining and has produced a lightweight and beautiful case -- except it's not so much a case as an aluminum bumper. The Sector needs you to remove only one screw to open it up (what ElementCase calls a multilink connection), and it wraps around the sides of the iPhone. The kit includes an adhesive-backed suede backing and a screen film, both of which I chose not to use. However, with all the included parts you could really protect your iPhone while keeping it looking very sharp. One unfortunate bit is a "road rash" protector, basically a collection of vinyl stickers you'll put around the edges of your iPhone to "protect" it from the Sector's rubber feet. The rubber feet are inside the four corners of the case, giving the shock absorption you want but having the nasty side effect of leaving some bits of rubber behind after prolonged use (see pic below). While I object to the vinyl, it's a good idea for ElementCase to have included these. That said, it makes the easier-to-remove case itself somewhat less easy to remove as you'll need to remove the non-reusable vinyl off your iPhone before ditching the Sector completely (if you choose to). The "road rash" vinyl sticker after over a week of use under the Sector 5 The Sector bulges out at the corners a bit, and adds a little visual interest to the iPhone. There are a couple of inadvertent issues with the Sector, however, and while they stem from the design, I'll detail them in the functionality section. Suffice it to say the "trussed" design (meaning there are a lot of cutouts) is a blessing and a curse, keeping weight down but also causing potential problems for big fingers. The review unit I got was a nice dark gray gun metal color. The weight is negligible, and that's really amazing. Still, this does add enough weight to the already crazy light iPhone 5, so you will definitely notice the iPhone is a bit heavier. Since I'm not covered in replacement iPhones, I did not perform a drop test. It's possible the shock absorbers will protect the phone, but it's also possible the added weight could be a problem. The Sector comes with a handy screwdriver for removing the case itself (and you can even attach it to your keys), but with that vinyl tape I doubt you'll be doing it often. Functionality OK, it's a case. As I said, I'm unwilling to throw my iPhone at the ground, but let's take this just as a sort of backup insurance. It's light, it's barely there, what's not to like? Unfortunately the deeper wells around the volume buttons make it much harder to access them if you have big fingers. I have relatively small fingers and often found myself having to squeeze in to flick the mute or change volume. That's not good. Apple puts those above the "surface" of the edge for a reason. Also, the lower left bulge is just big enough to where I really have to stretch my left thumb to access the upper right corner. While the 5 is taller, this additional distance was just enough for my smallish hands to have a problem where there was none before. Your mileage may vary. And lastly while the hole cut for the headphone port is ample, I found it was not ample enough for a generation of plugs made before smartphones became our music players. My old Sony desktop speaker plug barely fit, and seemed to pop out regularly. If you use EarPods or any of the more recent audio cables, changes are you'll be OK. My Sony MDR headphones were not OK, however. The plug fit, but so barely it kept popping out. The ports otherwise (mic, speakers, Lightning cable) all were fine thanks to the extensive trussing going on for weight purposes. The power button is accessed with a push button atop the case, so that worked fine. You also have access to the SIM slot, for what that's worth (in owning 4 iPhones I have yet to touch my SIM tray). One small problem with the stainless steel screws is that, in my review unit, they were painted black and after some use that paint came off. I actually like the patina look and it's not obvious at all, but if you're the kind of person who inspects cases with a jeweler's loupe, you'll see it for sure. Conclusion The build quality of the Sector is incredible. What's amazing to me are all the chambers and edges on the Sector, the trussing to keep weight low, and how it feels in your hand. When I first added the Sector to my iPhone I wasn't sure it was such a great idea, but after a week I have come to really enjoy it, and feel like I've got just enough added protection to my 5 that I can keep slapping it down on tables as I did before the case. I can imagine that with the additional suede backing it would be even more protected. The problem is that the price, US$139.95 may not justify the protection and the minor aggravations (specifically access to those volume buttons). If you have small hands or feel like your iPhone 5 is the perfect weight, you'll also have problems with having it on there. So is the Sector a great case? Yeah, it's a good case. I'm not sure it's worth the money, but if you are into status symbols, and the ElementCase lineup is mostly that, it's probably the coolest iPhone 5 case you can get right now. Pros: Provides some protection Looks cool Easier than ever to remove or put back on Cons: Vinyl stickers are a bummer Some usability issues with volume The iPhone 5 doesn't feel like it needs a case, so this can feel extraneous at times Who is it for? Anyone who wants their iPhone 5 to look different and can afford a luxury case which offers modest protection.
Element's new Sector case for iPhone 5
I'm a fan of Element Case iPhone cases, made in the USA by trained machinists using premium parts. No, they aren't cheap. Yes, they are amazing. The latest from Element is the Sector, and it will fit the iPhone 5. Not only that, but the case debuts a single-screw connector, whittling down the number of screws needed to remove the case to one. That's a welcome relief for those of us who like to remove their cases once in a while. Full press release is below, but the Sector 5 will be US$159.99 with suede backing and $149.99 without. Element Case is now taking pre-orders. Show full PR text September 27, 2012 – San Carlos, CA – Element Case (www.elementcase.com), the premier manufacturer of premium, luxury accessories for Apple iPhone and iPad, today debuted its latest creation – the Sector 5 FE (First Edition) case for iPhone 5. This unique design features a modular "multi-link" design never before utilized in iPhone protection. The Individual links are each CNC machined in the USA from aircraft grade 6061 aluminum billet as well as special non-disclosed aerospace grade polymers to prevent signal loss. US made Stainless steel fasteners are used to attach the links to form an ultra-strong, feather light design. The Sector 5's new multi-link perimeter frame design is comprised of 8 individual links to create a modular design that allows endless customization or upgrade possibilities. A single screw removal system allows the multi-link design to "unfold" for quick and easy installation. The interchangeable back plate on the "First Edition" model will be genuine Ultrasuede with more back plate options to come on later models including carbon fiber, genuine leather and more. The highest quality US machining techniques, aerospace grade materials and unrivaled designs yield Element Case's finest case to date, and once again an entry into the iPhone accessory market unlike any other. "Sector 5 is the culmination of years of design research and refinement since Element Case was founded in 2007," said Jeff Sasaki, Founder and Lead Designer. "We've crafted something really unique, innovative and completely outside the concept of an iPhone case for the ultimate Apple enthusiast." Available now for iPhone 4, and with a limited units of Sector 5 FE or "First Edition" to be released only to the Element Case Loyal Customers program, Element Case has asked for new customers to expect a minimum of 6 to 8 weeks for delivery from time of pre-order. Each product requires precision machining, hand finishing and expert assembly for completion in small, made-to-order batches. The Sector 5 FE model will be available only in a special Gunmetal grey Flux finish with a matching ultra-suede back plate. More colors to be made available after FE production. The Sector 5 is $159.99 with the Ultrasude backing, or $149.99 without. The Sector's features include: · Ultra thin "Multi-link" system for fast and easy install · Modular design for replacement and upgrade parts option · CNC machined in the US using aerospace grade materials · Large volume control ports for easy access · Laser engraved FE "First Edition" insignia · Large peripheral ports, fully compatible for the 30 Pin or Lightning cables · Protective Zipper case with transit kit (screen protector and speed wrench) · Carbon Fiber back plate and Genuine Ultra suede back plate. About Element Case Founded in 2007 by veteran Industrial Designer Jeff Sasaki, Element Case Inc. (www.elementcase.com) has become the market leader in premium iPhone and iPad accessories. Sasaki's California team continues to surpass the expectations of even the most discerning Apple fans by continually offering breakthrough designs which incorporate precision machining, top quality craftsmanship and the highest grade materials. Element Case products are available online at the company's website and through retailers and distributors. Made in USA, Element Case products are very exclusive but can found in more than 20 countries.
Element Case Formula 4 covers your iPhone 4 in style
Element Case, the folks that brought you the Vapor aluminium iPhone 4 bumper, have released a polycarbonate case built around a similar design aesthetic. The Formula 4 features the same shaped iPhone 4 edge-banding that the gorgeous Vapor uses and adds a protective back-plate that's covered in a sheet of carbon fibre. The top and bottom edges bulge out slightly, while the right-hand edge features a rubber Element Case branded grip strip. %Gallery-127713% The case is split into two halves. A top half that slides on and is most of the case. The removable bottom half slides off to let you dock your iPhone 4. When in use, the bottom half locks into place solidly and overlaps the top half just slightly, ensuring a good fit. The Formula 4 encases the iPhone completely while the camera, headphones port, volume buttons, mute switch, the dock connecter, power button and speakers remain accessible. The screen itself is left completely uncovered, however, with the case providing only a very slightly raised edge. If you want screen protection you'll have to invest in a screen protector or look elsewhere. Verdict Overall, the Element Case Formula 4 provides good looking, decent protection for the sides and back of your iPhone 4. It's not the thinnest of cases, with extra bulges at the top and bottom of the case, but it has decent ergonomics and doesn't add too much to the depth of the device. If you fancied the Vapor, but couldn't justify the price or were worried about the aluminium affecting signal strength, then you won't be disappointed with the Formula 4. It combines decent protection and solid design, which makes it a winner in my book. The Element Case Formula 4 is available for US$59.95 plus shipping.
Element Case Joule Chroma iPad stand works with iPad 2
We've covered the Element Case Joule iPad stand several times here on TUAW, even giving away some specially-made TUAW-logoed stands to several of our readers. Now Element Case has partnered with us again to introduce the new Joule Chroma line of iPad stands, and yes, we will be giving one away. The Chroma line comes in six bright colors -- orange, red, blue, pink, grey and black -- and there's even a matching Ultrasuede liner to caress your iPad. The Joule stand is set up with rubber pads at the bottom to keep it from sliding across smooth surfaces as you tap on the iPad screen, and the tilt foot magnetically attaches to one of three ports to adjust the angle at which the iPad sits. Finally, there's a speaker port so that your tunes aren't muffled when the iPad is nestled in the stand in portrait mode. The Joule Chroma isn't for everyone; at US$149.99, it's definitely a luxury item. And you probably don't want to use it with the Smart Cover installed, as you'll want to use this when you're using the iPad 2. But if you're looking for a very classy and well-made machined aluminum product with which to prop up your iPad, the Joule Chroma is a heck of a choice.
Element Vapor Pro iPhone 4 case: Exclusive first look and giveaway
You've seen the sleek machined aluminum mobile accessories from Element Case here on TUAW before. Now the company has announced a new addition to the Vapor case line; the US$149.99 Vapor Pro FE. Using a proprietary aerospace polymer in the frame, the Vapor Pro case has been designed in such a way to eliminate detuning of the iPhone 4's antenna, also known as the "grip of death." As with the all-aluminum Vapor case, the Vapor Pro is bundled with a machined installation tool. The first offering of the case will feature a special FE "First Edition" symbol, a removable carbon fiber back plate and a zipper case for those rare times you want your iPhone 4 to go naked. The Vapor Pro FE is also coming with a special two-tone electrolytic hard coat finish that is much more resistant to abrasion than anodized metal. The initial version is only for the AT&T (GSM) model of the iPhone 4, while a Verizon (CDMA) edition is in production and will be available soon. Once the Vapor Pro FE is sold out, a variety of optional back plates in different finishes and colors are expected, with pricing to be announced later. The Vapor Pro has wider access ports at the top and bottom than the Vapor case, and the fastening bolts are now located on opposite corners of the phone. The SIM card slot is perforated and features unique accents. We're going to be giving away a Element Case Vapor Pro FE to one lucky TUAW reader. To enter, just leave a comment below telling us what you'd like to protect your iPhone 4 from with an Element Case Vapor Pro FE. We'll randomly pick one winner soon. Here are the rules for the giveaway: Open to legal US residents of the 50 United States, the District of Columbia and Canada (excluding Quebec) who are 18 and older. To enter, leave a comment telling us what you'd like to protect your iPhone 4 from with an Element Case Vapor Pro FE. The comment must be left before Friday, February 25, 2011 11:59 PM Eastern Standard Time. You may enter only once. One winner will be selected and will receive an Element Case Vapor Pro FE valued at $149.99. Click Here for complete Official Rules. Good luck! If you're not feeling lucky or would like to check out more details of the Vapor Pro FE, visit the web page for the case after midnight PST tonight or buy one (also after midnight PST) at the Element Case Store.
Vapor iPhone case review and giveaway
First of all, we're giving away four Vapor cases in your choice of colors to four lucky readers. Second, the Vapor case is awesome. The Vapor bolts onto the edge of your iPhone 4 and cradles it in aircraft aluminum, complete with little rubbery grips on the inside to isolate the antenna and provide some shock absorption. It adds just enough width to the phone on the edges to make it a little easier to grip, especially if your hands are larger. The indentation allows for added grip, plus the larger edge makes it slightly more stable if you want to sit your iPhone on its edge. True, at $79.95 the Vapor is not for everyone. It is a premium case. If you like finely-crafted accessories, you will love it. Apple's case provides similar protection, so if you're on a budget, you can afford to buy a cheaper case. Still, the machined power button and the cutouts for volume, SIM, cable connector and headphones are meticulously cut. There's clearly a lot of thought in the design of this case. If you appreciate great design and want a case that stands out from the rest, the Vapor is for you. You can even get custom engraving and several colors. The downside is that ElementCase, makers of the Vapor, are busy taking pre-orders and aren't currently shipping.** (**Note: Since this writing, TUAW has learned that ElementCase is, in fact, shipping both current and back orders. Expected order processing time is currently less than two weeks.) To put your iPhone in the Vapor, you'll need a little hex wrench that comes with the case. There's an optional carbon fiber back plate you can add, but I didn't feel it was necessary. Once the four screws are in place, the case cannot easily be removed. That could be a minus if you tend to use a dock, because you'll have to keep the wrench with you and unscrew those screws every time you want to dock the phone. Still, in my road testing I never felt I needed to remove the case. It made the iPhone feel sturdier, fit better in my hand and provided insulation from my antenna woes. Details on the giveaway on the next page. %Gallery-100440%
Element Case, Ivyskin out iPhone 4 cases specifically to deal with reception issues
Can't find an official iPhone 4 bumper? Driving yourself mad trying to give your new smartphone white glove treatment? Fret not, as a couple of case makers have outed new iPhone 4 clothing that's meant to specifically dodge those naughty reception issues that seem to occur whenever your sweaty palm makes contact with that now infamous metal band. Element Case -- the same folks responsible for the downright lust-worthy Joule stand for iPad -- has just revealed their first iPhone 4 case, the Vapor (shown above). The company claims that its $79.95 enclosure provides an aircraft-grade, CNC'd aluminum frame lined with a shock-absorbent material, the latter of which "addresses iPhone 4 reception issues caused by direct hand to phone cradling." For now, it's up for pre-order (shipments are expected to start next week) in black / black and black / pink, with more colors to become available in the future. As for Ivyskin? It's stepping things up even further by naming its product the "iPhone 4 Reception Case." No need for subtly, we see. Hailed as the "world's thinnest polycarbonate shell" for Apple's latest iDevice, this here sleeve is the one to get if you're look to minimize added bulk and not cover up any of Cupertino's design cues. Best of all, this one retails for just $14.99 and ships with both front and back scratch-free body armors. Crazy that it has come to this, you know? Update: We're seeing reports that Ivyskin is charging but not shipping its case. Buyer beware. %Gallery-97091%
Need a stand for your iPad? Enter the Joule giveaway
Last week I took you on a quick tour of the Joule by ElementCase. Yes, it's a premium stand. So, if you aren't in the "premium" market and are getting along with your alternative-to-real-iPad-stands stand and you're happy with other options, just pass this post by. Personally, I thought the Joule was a nice stand and, while a bit pricey, will last nearly forever. TUAW and ElementCase are giving you a chance to win one of four Joules. We've got two models reserved: two silver and two black. The black models will allow engraving, which takes a little extra time to send out. Please let us know which you'd like in the comments as you enter. Entering is easy! Just leave a comment on this post. This weekend we'll pick four winners (two for black Joules, two for silver) and send you further details. Of course, you'll have to be over 18, in the US or Canada (sorry!), and so forth. Full rules are here. Open to legal US residents of the 50 United States and the District of Columbia and Canada (excluding Quebec) who are 18 and older. To enter, leave a comment telling us which model Joule you'd like (black or silver). The comment must be left before Sunday, April 25, 2010, 11:59PM Eastern Time. You may enter only once. Four winners will be selected in a random drawing. Prize: Joule iPad stand (Value: US$129) Click Here for complete Official Rules.
Review: Joule iPad stand by ElementCase
The iPhone cases from ElementCase have always impressed me. Made to last from sturdy materials, they are beautifully designed and a joy to use. I've used a lot of iPhone cases and after so many wound up treating my phone badly, I felt the case we covered a while ago did possibly the best job of protecting the iPhone and providing a functional purpose as well (bigger handles for your phone when gaming). They also sell a car and boat mount for the iPhone cases... But then Apple introduced the iPad. ElementCase got right to work, building a gorgeous stand for the thing. As we reported last week, the stand is called the Joule. Hit the link below to read about the stand itself and find a discount code for your own purchase, and be sure to stay tuned -- we'll be giving some of these away on Monday of next week. %Gallery-90934%
TUAW Exclusive: Element Case launches the Joule, a luxury iPad stand
We covered the iPhone cases from Element Case a couple of years ago, and I was impressed with their build quality and design. Now they've released a beautiful aluminum stand called the Joule for the iPad. As you can see from the gallery, the Joule is simplicity itself: a machined and polished cylinder of aluminum with a leg in the back for stabilization. There are three holes to customize the angle of tilt on the iPad and the device itself rests in a velvet-lined groove. We've got a review unit on the way and we'll be giving some away soon, so stay tuned for that. You can also have the Joule in polished aluminum (seen above) or anodized black, plus they'll zap your logo or almost whatever on the thing with a laser -- for a fee. Meanwhile, you can buy a Joule here for $129. The first 100 TUAW readers to order with a promo code can purchase the Joule for $99. The promo code is: TUAWJ1 Check back for a full review and the giveaway early next week. Until then, enjoy the gallery. %Gallery-89915%
Hands-on with Element Case and your chance to win a TUAW version
We get a small number of physical products to review around here, and the streets are thick with iPhone cases of every variety -- but Element Case stood out. These aren't generic leather or plastic cases, they are somewhat beefier plastic cases available with metal, carbon or wood accents and sporting magnetic "flip" lids. The added surface area makes it a little easier to play games, especially if you're getting cramps playing Fieldrunner all day. At the end of this review we've got a special-edition TUAW Element Case to give away.The phone is secure in the case because you have to unscrew the bottom of the case, slide the phone in, and put the screws back in. There are ports along the sides that allow you to access everything you'd normally need: camera, volume, sync cable port. You can't put the phone in the dock, however. The "flip" lid is a piece of plastic with magnets, and those magnets lock onto the screws. The lid attaches to the back of the case when you need access to the screen -- a nice design feature. I'm not sure all this protection adds any shock absorption, but the phone certainly feels sturdier with a rigid casing on the outside. For games, the added surface area was welcome, even more ergonomic. Speaking of the casing, you can choose a CNC-machined version with a base in aluminum alloy (fits first-gen iPhones), but my model was the "Liquid" edition, which is injection-molded plastic (fits both 1st-gen and 3G iPhones). There's a slightly fancier plastic model with some wood veneer on the back, plus a nickel-plated model and a very limited-run of the "CRG" model. The only problem with all this is that several of the cases are for the 1st-gen iPhone only (like the CRG), so you'll have to peruse the shop and see what's available. Essentially everything is limited-run, which adds to the cache value of your case, if that's your thing. No designer case would be complete without customization, and Element Case will custom-engrave a design on the lid or back of your case. %Gallery-39464%
