PhoneCase
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OtterBox partners up for PopSocket case and better screen protectors
Phone case maker OtterBox is feeling mighty friendly these days. The company announced a partnership with PopSocket to create a phone case that has the ubiquitous accessory built right into it. It also revealed it is working with Gorilla Glass manufacturer Corning to bring OtterBox's first line of glass screen protectors to market.
Engadget giveaway: Win a Samsung Galaxy S8+ and Spigen cases!
Samsung's latest phones seems to be a hit, with pre-orders reaching record levels for the company. Both the S8 and the S8+ have a smooth elongated exterior for easier gripping, but that's not to say these handsets don't obey the laws of gravity. To help keep Samsung's latest safe from harm, case maker Spigen has provided a variety of protective shells for every eventuality, from light weight to heavy duty for both the S8 and S8+. This includes the company's popular Neo Hybrid with a subtle herringbone pattern on the back, as well as clear and even sparkly cases for those with a little flare. This week, Spigen has provided us with a powerful Samsung Galaxy S8+ (for AT&T), along with an assortment of cases and screen protectors for one lucky winner. All you need to do is head to the Rafflecopter widget below for up to three chances at winning one of Samsung's latest smartphones and a Spigen safety package to keep it protected. Winner: Congratulations to Hugh D. of Dublin, CA!
Of course there's a 'Candy Crush' fashion collection
The Candy Crush craze continues to reach new heights. Just when you thought a TV show based on the popular game was more than you could handle, well, that's not the only thing happening in time for summer. King, the app's developer, has teamed up with fashion brand Moschino on a collection of accessories and swimwear, in celebration of the fifth anniversary of the Candy Crush Saga. Available today (only until it sells out), the gear includes an iPhone case, bathing suits for men and women as well as a backpack, respectively priced at $70, $205, $300 and $650.
Otterbox's new case lets you use accessories without removing it
Ah yes, phone cases. A necessary purchase if you're accident prone or tend to drop your handset on the regular. Unfortunately, adding that accessory usually makes for a headaches whenever you try to use another mobile add-on like a thermal camera or lens clip. Typically, you would have to remove your protective case before you could use any of those other gadgets. Well, Otterbox is looking to rid you of that frustration with the new Universe system and it's swappable "accessory modules."
ICYMI: Obstacle-avoiding UAV, smartwatch whys and more
#fivemin-widget-blogsmith-image-421365{display:none;} .cke_show_borders #fivemin-widget-blogsmith-image-421365, #postcontentcontainer #fivemin-widget-blogsmith-image-421365{width:570px;display:block;} try{document.getElementById("fivemin-widget-blogsmith-image-421365").style.display="none";}catch(e){}Today on In Case You Missed It: A new wearable screen that runs Android while strapped to your wrist is out, but we can't help but make fun of it. MIT's Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence Lab created a UAV that can fly through a forest safely with an obstacle avoidance algorithm. And a prototype gun for objects lets users whip together large-scaled 3D designs using run-of-the-mill packing tape.
Mophie's latest iPhone battery case is waterproof, too
Mophie's cases are a popular choice for adding some extra minutes to your mobile device's battery life. While the company already had both charging and storage options for the iPhone 6, it how offers protection from water damage, too. The H2PRO accessory not only packs in an additional 2,750 mAh battery, but it's waterproof as well. An IP-68 rated Otterbox-esque design also protects the handset from dirt and drops with easy access to those side-mounted controls and a mute switch. Worried about Touch ID? Mophie's scratch-resistant membrane that covers the screen will still allow you to leverage that feature. What's more, priority-charging tech makes sure your phone charges before the case when plugging in is unavoidable. If you're itchin' to snag one, the Mophie H2PRO is available for pre-order now for $130 and it's schedule to ship later this month. Unfortunately, there's no word on an iPhone 6 Plus option just yet.
A Polaroid-style phone case can print selfies in under a minute
The allure of instant photo printing may have passed for most folks, despite some semblance of Polaroid hanging around, but a French startup is looking to rekindle the habit. The company is working on Prynt: a phone case that packs a compact printer inside a frame that resembles a point-and-shoot camera. Right now, prototypes are capable of putting ink to paper for physical copies in just under a minute; however, final models will reduce that time to under 30 seconds. The shell also houses 10-30 sheets of paper for individual prints, and thanks to a companion app, outputs can be used to view captured videos with bit of augmented reality magic. There's a physical connection to your phone too, so you won't have to rely on Bluetooth or WiFi to send flies along. Of course, Prynt has a long way to go, but a Kickstarter is planned for early next year where the first units will be available for $99.
ThermoShield protects your phone in unbearable heat and bone-rattling cold
Rugged phone cases are bountiful. But, while they may offer some additional thermal protection, they're not built for true extremes. For that, you'd need either piles of insulation (too bulky) or some way to control the temperature inside the case. ThermoShield, one of over a dozen student-run companies vying for attention at Northeastern University's Husky Startup Challenge, went the latter route by slipping a Peltier element inside a slim plastic shell. The current prototype was built on a 3D printer and clearly created for an iPhone, but plans for the initial model should be simple enough to port to any handset. A standard watch battery powers the small plate and by controlling the voltage across it you generate either small amounts of heat or produce a slight cooling effect. A simple switch or slider would be used to manually control the flow of electrons. Trekking through the arctic tundra? Simply crank up the heat to keep your phone from freezing to death. Meandering through the Sahara? Take advantage of the Peltier's thermoelectric cooling properties to keep the Gorilla Glass from melting. According to one of the creators, Hannah Bialic, it wouldn't be terribly difficult to add automatic temperature control. Though, development costs could significantly drive up the price of the ThermoShield. The hardware could all be baked directly into the case itself or an app could be created that would automate everything. Obviously, though, relying on software would limit the case to working with a single device (and let's be realistic, it won't be your beloved Nexus 4). There's no telling when or if you'll actually be able to pick up one of these variable temperature shells, but you can add your name to the mailing list at the more coverage link.
Ask Engadget: best case for the Samsung Galaxy S III?
We know you've got questions, and if you're brave enough to ask the world for answers, here's the outlet to do so. This week's Ask Engadget inquiry is coming to us from Amandeep, who needs a case for his new superphone. If you're looking to send in an inquiry of your own, drop us a line at ask [at] engadget [dawt] com. "Hey guys, I just snagged myself a new Galaxy S III, but I'm at a loss when it comes to deciding on a case. I'm looking for something that falls between the typical silicone wrap and a full-on army grade rubber block of invincibility. It needs to provide sufficient protection from the occasional drop or two while staying relatively sleek and somewhat stylish. That said, my last phone was a Thunderbolt with an extended battery, so it's safe to say that I won't mind a bit of thickness. I've had my eye on a Shell-Gel series case from Ballistic, but I'm still in need of suggestions. Any ideas?" How about it peeps? What do you use to protect your Galaxy S III that you'd recommend to another? Constructive suggestions are always welcomed.
Sprint says thank you, gives patient subs free EVO 4G LTE cases
Waiting for the EVO 4G LTE to ship turned out to be much less of an exercise in Godot-like interminability than many subscribers once thought. That handset's now firmly in the hands of pre-order customers and to thank them for their (presumed) patience, Sprint's bundling a thank you gift with every parcel. As shown above, that make-good comes in the form of a smartphone case -- a Superman-colored one at that -- although we would've much preferred an extended battery. See, folks? You stand by your carrier and you get rewarded. That two-year contract had to be good for something.
Sony helps you 'personalize' your Xperia further, announces case maker partnerships
Despite there being so many smartphones nowadays, finding cases for certain handsets can be tricky -- unless you're toting the likes of an iPhone or the latest Android flagship device, that is. Keeping that in mind, Sony has good news for Xperia owners, as it's officially announced a partnership program to bring more case options for its phones to market. According to Sony, 10 companies are currently onboard, including the likes of Case-Mate and Incipio, and some will be announcing what'll be on offer before the month's out. There's no word regarding designs or prices just yet, but here's hoping that Case-Mate brings its cuddly Creature cases into the fray -- especially the Waddler.
Crapgadget CES, round seven: Because everything looks better in fur
This furry case was unfortunately un-priced. But nothing exudes premium more than the combination of faux pomeranian tail and leopard print.
Crapgadget: 'after school special' edition
School can be tough, especially when you're different. So what better way to keep the bullies at bay than to get your craptastic accessory freak on. In this special back to school bonanza of creeper tech, Hong Kong-based watchmaker o.d.m. mashes E.T. with a gummy bunny for a wrist-rocking return to infancy, Strapya World takes you by the baby's hand for iPhone 4 case comfort, while Dane-Elec's E-Razor USB stick goes undercover in a block full of erasing rubber. And if you're looking for a soundtrack throwback to match the solar-powered butterfly you've stuck in your Jansport, Brando's got you covered with its USB Cassette Capture & Player. Take a gander at the roundup below and make sure to vote for the crapgadget most likely to not succeed.
International bubble envelope conceals soft, fuzzy phone case
Not that we haven't seen unorthodox cases before, but there's just something -- how do you say? -- insanely awesome about this one. Disguised as a beat up, reused envelope from the LOL Post, this rip proof, water proof, writable Tyvek case is padded on the inside and perfectly ready for your mobile, PMP or iced-out Rough Riders chain. And those ill-willed jerks on the subway won't ever think to yank your finger for it. It's all yours for DKK 99,00, or around $16.22 in American dollars.
