Valentine’s Day is coming up fast, and if your lover loves their iPhone, iPod touch, or iPad, you’re in luck, there are some fantastic device, app, accessory, and media gifts to thrill them and score you major brownie points. Whether you’re romantic enough to prepare well in advance, or if you’re scrambling to stay off the couch, sit back and get your groove warmed up — Rene and I decided to do a little written ZEN and TECH this week and help you pick out the perfect Valentine’s Day gifts for your special someone.

Dream devices for the person of your dreams

On the off chance the love of your life doesn’t yet have an iOS device to call his or her own, that’s a great place to start. An iPod touch can be the perfect travel or exercise companion. An iPad can entertain and inform at home or away. An a iPhone can keep you both in touch no matter where you are. And Apple TV is perfect for all the couple movie classics.

And hey, if you’re in a long distance romance, just wait until they discover FaceTime.

• Apple iOS device gift guide

Awesome accessories

If your significant other already has their iOS device needs met, then accessories are your next best bet. There’s something about a tangible gift — something about receiving a gift, opening it, seeing and feeling it for the first time. It’s… real.

There are a ton of great iPhone and iPad accessories to choose from. Here are some of our favorites.

Case-Mate Barely There Brushed Aluminum Case for iPhone

Year after year, Case-Mate melts my heart with a shiny, sexy case for the iPhone and this year is no exception — the Barely There Brushed Aluminum Case is simply spectacular. As always, it’s light as a feather, extremely low profile, and the finish is fabulous. Girls will love the heart red or stunning silver, guys the basic black. Both will appreciate the aircraft-grade aluminum inlay, gunmetal hard shell, and awesome good looks of the Barely There Brushed Aluminum.

$29.95 – Buy now

Pad & Quill Little Black Book for iPhone and Contega for iPad

Little Black Book‘s are usually reserved for hot little numbers, and Pad & Quill’s take on the classic is no exception — it wraps your high tech iPhone in old word craftsmanship. It fits both the iPhone 4S and iPhone 4, it’s precision cut and framed from Baltic Birch, covered in Italian leather, bound in book cloth, with an extra pocket inside for credit cards or ID. If pink is your thing, Pad & Quill is offering the Little Black Book in just that special edition color, just in time for Valentine’s. If not, they have a rainbow of other colors to choose from, from red to blue and everything in between.

Contega brings the same hipster vibe and quality construction to the iPad with even more features, notably a fold-up stand to make it easier to type or just watch your movies.

$54.99 and up – Buy now

Jawbone JAMBOX

You put down your wine glasses, take each other’s hands, walk over to the dance floor, hold each other close — and hear the tiny, tinny sound of your iPhone’s speaker. Grrrrr. Jawbone’s JAMBOX makes up for Apple’s still disappointing audio with the best Bluetooth sound ever. It’s rich. It’s deep. It’ll keep you dancing until dawn.

$179.99 – Buy now

8-Bit Dynamic Life Shirt

These light-up shirts from Think Geek will normally show two-and-a-half glowing hearts. But when you and your special someone come together, your heart bar glows full and you power up. Get one for yourself, one for your love, and whenever you’re together, your shirts will light up.

$17.99 – $24.99 – Buy now

Amazing apps

You know if there’s an app for just about everything, a large portion of those just have to be for love! Whether you’re deeply in love, trying to keep the home fires burning, or still trying to kindle the flame, there are most definitely apps for all that.

Romantic apps

If you’re already in a relationship, especially if you’ve been in one for a while, and you need or simply want something sexy to spice up your Valentine’s day, the App Store has plenty to offer.

$1.99 – iKamaSutra

Interlude: A romantic rant

We looked for more apps we could recommend, but frankly most of them looked terrible. The icons were horrible, the screenshots were horrible, and the reviews were horrible. We’re long past the time lazy, opportunistic “developers” should be able to put out junk and make money off iPhone and iPad users. This should be a good market. There should be a great developer who can make a gorgeous looking, fabulous working dice game, spin the bottle, truth or dare, or something — anything — else for adults who simply want to have some fun. Take this as a challenge — by next Valentine’s Day, have some amazing stuff in the store for couples!

More apps

We offer up what we think are simply the best apps day in and day out here at iMore, just because it’s Valentine’s doesn’t mean you need to get a Valentine’s specific app. Sometimes something thoughtful, something that shows you’ve listened, learned your significant other’s interests, and found them something delightful is the way to go.

• iMore’s best app lists

Online dating apps

If you don’t happen to have someone special this year, if you’re still searching, it’s never too early to get ready for next year. Why not harness the power of your iPhone and iPad? Many of the popular online dating sites have apps in the app store, and since our lives are increasingly mobile, there’s no reason our love lives shouldn’t be as well. (The apps are usually free, as is browsing, but there are typically fees associated with messaging.)

Free – eHarmony

Variable – More online dating apps

Last minute gift ideas

If you’re reading this with only minutes to spare before your special someone comes to the door, or comes downstairs, all hope is not lost. In addition to the apps listed above, all of which can be bought in an instant, there are also several sweet services and certificates that are yours to be had, only a few clicks away.

Netflix, Hulu Plus, Slacker and other subscription

You’ll be stuck watching romantic comedies, chick flicks, or something racy, but you won’t be stuck on the sofa or the dog house!

• Netflix
• Hulu Plus
• Slacker Personal Radio

iTunes, App Store, iBooks gifts and gift certificates

If romance is still fresh and new and you don’t want to risk gifting the wrong app or iBook or iTunes music, you can get them a gift certificate. Don’t just hand it over, however. Take their hand and go online shopping with them!

• iTunes gift certificates

Amazon gift certificates

Amazon has a ton of digital content all there own, but they also have old school media — paper books, plastic CDs and Blu-Rays, games that come on cartridges… Gift certificates let your special someone pick just exactly the goods — real or virtual — they want, and Amazon will deliver it straight to the door or the device. Again, shop with them!

• Amazon gift certificates

Your Valentine’s gift ideas?

Did we miss any of your favorite Valentine gift ideas, past, present, or future? Anything that especially made your heart melt or soar or skip a beat? Please share in the comments!

Georgia, Seth, and Rene talk about copy-cat apps, iMovie vs. Avid, Launch Center, Jailbreak apps for iOS 5, as well as cases with stands, iPhone guns, and glowing Apple logo mods. This is Apps & Accessories Live!

• Subscription information coming soon! Right now you can enjoy Apps & Accessories Live in the iPhone & iPad Live fees!

Meta

• February is fitness month at iMore and Mobile Nations! [iPad 3 giveaway!]
• Don’t forget we give away a ton of stuff!

App News

• Apple removes copy-cat apps from the App Store, doesn’t address larger issues
• iMovie vs Avid Studio: iPad video editing app shootout
• Readdle Remarks brings note-taking and PDF annotating in one to iPad
• Book Palette for Mac offers 10 beautiful templates for iBooks Author
• iMore app picks of the week for February 4, 2012 [Giveaway]

Jailbreak Apps

• BiteSMS vs Messages+ for iOS 5: which should you use?
• LockInfo vs IntelliscreenX for iOS 5 jailbreak: which should you use?
• Hands-on with Zephyr for the iPhone and iPod Touch [Jailbreak Apps]

Launch Center

• Launch Center puts Messages, Facebook, Twitter, a flashlight, more in your iPhone Notification Center

Accessory News

• Xappr Gun turns your iPhone into an FPS dream machine!

• Ten One Design announces Pogo Sketch Plus capacitive stylus for iPhone and iPad
• Hands on with the Jot Touch, a pressure sensitive stylus by Adonit

• Incipio SILICRYLIC case with kickstand for iPhone 4S and iPhone 4 vs. Case-Mate Pop! Case with Stand for iPhone 4S, iPhone 4

iPhone Mods

• iFixit Thirsty Bag for iPhone, iPad review
• iFixit iPhone transparent rear panel mod kit review
• Hands on with the glowing Apple logo mod for iPhone 4 and iPhone 4S

Hosts

• Georgia (@GeorgiaTiPb)
• Seth Clifford (@sethclifford)
• Rene Ritchie (@reneritchie)

Credits

You can reach all of us on Twitter [@iMore](http://twitter.com/imore), or you can email us at , or leave a comment on the website when the show goes live.

We’re here every Sunday night at 6pm Pacific, 9pm Eastern, 2am GMT, and our companion show — iPhone and iPad Live! — is at the same time, on the same channel, on Wednesday nights — www.iMore.com/live

For all our podcasts — audio and video — including iPhone and iPad Live, ZENandTECH and Superfunctional, Iterate and Girls Gone Gadget and more… see MobileNations.com/shows

If you haven’t already please subscribe to all our shows in iTunes and leave a rating. It helps people find the show and means a lot to us!

Thanks to the iMore Accessory Store for sponsoring the podcast, and to everyone who showed up for the live chat!

With the launch of the Mobile Nations Fitness Month odds are you were probably out and about being active and doing things that, unfortunately, led to you missing some great news. Fear not, we know things get in the way, and news can be easy to miss so, let’s check out some of the highlights from the week gone by.

iPhone news

• Is Apple testing Oracle’s ZFS file system to make iOS and iCloud storage better, faster, and more resilient?
• Former Apple manager tells how the original iPhone was developed, why it went with Gorilla Glass
• iPhone 4S demand finally satisfied, all models now in stock for next day delivery
• iPhone 5 to launch at WWDC in June, claims analyst

iPad news

• Could Apple release a separate 4G LTE iPad 3 and Phone 5 in select markets?
• Supposed debug leak shows iPad 3 with quad-core A6 chip and LTE
• More rumors of iPad 3 coming in March, but no “strange” event in February

App news

• Manage your Sprint account on your iPhone with Sprint Mobile Zone
• Angry Birds boss doesn’t see app piracy as a problem
• Pad & Quill brings stylish notes to your iPhone and iPad
• iMovie vs Avid Studio: iPad video editing app shootout

Jailbreak news

• How to tell if your iPhone 3GS has an older or newer bootrom [jailbreak tip]
• Add customization options to ‘slide to unlock’ text with Slider Pro [Jailbreak]
• BiteSMS vs Messages+ for iOS 5: which should you use?
• Add launch preferences to Phone.app with StartDial for iPhone [jailbreak]
• Hands-on with Zephyr for the iPhone and iPod Touch [Jailbreak Apps]

Accessory news

• Hands on with the Crimson cases, sticker skins, and edgings for iPhone
• Case-Mate POP! Case with Stand for iPad 2 review [Giveaway]
• Incipio Hive Honeycomb dermaSHOT Silicone Case for iPad 2 review [Giveaway]
• Griffin Crayola Trace & Draw for iPad 2 review [Giveaway]
• OverBoard waterproof case for iPad review [Giveaway]

Crimson makes some colorful, sparkly cases, skins, and edgings for the iPhone, and I know this because while at Macworld 2012, I noticed a couple people sporting them around the antennas of their iPhone 4 and iPhone 4S’s. This is what drew me towards Crimson’s booth.

Crimson offers many options for adding personality and protection to your iPhone. Currently available is the Aluminum Frame Case and six different types of screen protectors. In the near future, Crimson will be offering skins for the backs and antennas of the iPhone 4 and iPhone 4S. Most of these skins are colorful and sparkly, but there will also be options that are more subtle and “manly”.

While visiting their booth, I picked up a purple skin for the back of my iPhone 4S and a purple Aluminum Frame case. I may be enjoying my sparkly skin, but I’ll admit to not being a huge fan of the case. The nubby corners are a turn off and add quite a bit of bulk to the overall size of my iPhone. If the corners were small and rounded, I may actually consider using it regularly.

• Variable – Amazon Store link

The folks at Adonit have been working hard on their new product, the Jot Touch, a pressure sensitive stylus with a built-in antenna and a free SDK kit for drawing app developers. Adonit was showcasing the Jot Touch at Macworld, so I had a chance to check it out.

I will admit that the style of the Jot stylus lineup with the clear, flat nib has always seemed a bit awkward to me, but it only took a few minutes of use before I understood why this is a superior design. Because of the clear nib, I was able to see exactly where my markings would appear even if I was using a very fine line setting in the drawing app. This, combined with the Jot Touch’s pressure sensitivity, will make this stylus a fantastic choice for artists.

The Jot Touch is set to release in late March or early April.

When I was asked to compile a list of my most used accessories of 2011, I looked around and discovered — I don’t use that many accessories. That made my list much easier to compile. So here is a list of the accessories that I actually do use.

Glif

As a YouTuber, I make videos on a regular basis. Following the old saying ‘The best camera is the one you have on you’, this is mostly my iPhone 4. The problem with iPhone is that you can’t mount it on to a tripod. The Glif is a moulded piece of rubber that fits tightly around the iPhone 4 or iPhone 4S, and screws into any standard tripod, making it ideal for shooting those still shots. It also doubles as a stand in both portrait and landscape modes.

• $19.50 – Amazon link

Smart Cover for iPad 2

I love my Smart Cover. It’s got a gorgeous design, its simple to attach and detach from the iPad and, for a thin cover, its surprisingly functional. I usually have my iPad stood up in “writing” mode, for editing articles, and scripts on the fly, but when I just want to sit back, relax and enjoy some TV or a film, Its literally a small flip away.

It’s simple, it’s sleek and it comes in colors.

• $39.99 to $69.99 – Amazon link

Apple iPhone 4 Dock

If the iPhone 4 isn’t in my pocket, or in my hand, then its sat in its dock on my desk or bedside table where it’ll charge and connect to iTunes via Wifi, to ensure that that all my music, apps and podcasts are up to date.

• $23.99 – Amazon link

I love my accessories, and while I don’t have as many cases as some of the ladies in our forums (you know who you are!), I have racked up quite a large collection of “stuff.” I’m going to begin my list of most used iPhone and iPad accessories with my favorite accessory that goes with everything, and then one for each of my treasured Apple gadgets.

Kinies Classic Single Strap Shoulder bag / Cross Body Messenger

A while back I went looking for a bag to carry everything I wanted to carry. Computer bags are too small, and I didn’t want a backpack. I finally found what I thought was perfect on Etsy. I bought the first bag in red and loved it. The Kinies Classic comes in a variety of colours and two sizes. After carefully checking the measurements, I bought the first bag in red and loved it – the mini. It was wonderful. But the more I thought about it, the more I thought that if the small red one was good, the large purple one would be better.

I can fit my MacBook Air, my iPad, my iPhone, my Kindle, my MiFi, a pair of headphones, a flip videocam, a 1 TB usb drive, a screwdriver, scissors, sync/charge cables and power adapters for everything, and a minimum of the other things that women normally carry in a purse – wallet, lip balm, hand sanitizer, and aspirin. I keep the Mac and iPad in the large center pocket, but pretty much everything else has its own pocket. Obviously, not something for men, but if you are a lady geek – can’t live without it. (Here’s my review if you want to know more.)

• $55.00 – Etsy link

GelaSkin

As I’ve just explained, I carry my MacBook Air in my purse. While it is pretty safe in the center pocket of my bag, I wanted to make sure it wasn’t going to get banged up if I threw something else in there. So I got a custom GelaSkin for the cover. Not only does it give me awesome protection, but people always stop me to tell me how cool it is. (Incidentally, it is a design done on the iPhone using the Brushes app.)

• Prices vary – GelaSkins
• Brushes: $4.99 – App Store link

X-Stand for iPad Tablet

It took me a minute to get used to using an iPad, but now that I am used to it, I always want it in sight and accessible. Nothing beats the XStand from Brookstone. It holds your iPad up just high enough and swivels 360 degrees around, as well as tilting flat, and even straight back. It comes with a shiny black or red base, and is as beautiful as it is functional. Because it sits up off the base, you can even keep it charging while it sits in the stand. You can also put it in the stand with a variety of cases. (Here’s my review if you want to know more.)

• $49.99 – Amazon link

The Little Black Book for iPhone 4 and iPhone 4S

I’ve been through a lot of cases for my iPhone, but despite the fact that I originally thought of the Little Black Book case as a novelty, I keep returning to it as my daily driver. It’s beautiful and protective. Pad and Quill has created a first class case with the Little Black Book – and at first glance, no one ever realizes it’s even an iPhone. (Here’s my review if you want to know more.)

• $54.99 – Amazon link

Brookstone is set to launch an iPad specific hardware scanner in February. The scanner has been designed for the road warrior that no longer wants or needs to carry around a laptop, but needs to regularly scan documents on the go .

Our iConvert Scanner for iPad and iPad 2 Tablets scans hard copies to JPEG files directly to your tablet, giving you instant e-copies of your most important documents. The JPEG files are automatically stored in the picture folder. Great for use at home, the office and on the go. The entire scanner is sized to take with you in your messenger bag or backpack.

Source: Brookstone

I have a very short attention span when it comes to accessories for my iPhone and iPad, and my most used accessories reflect that. To really keep my attention an accessory has to stand out from what I already own. If it looks like something I already have or doesn’t provide any additional features, I probably won’t give it a second look. Here are the ones I’ve found to be functional and versatile enough to keep around.

iSkin Aura for iPhone 4 and iPhone 4S

The first iSkin product I ever purchased was an iSkin Solo FX case for my iPhone 3GS. I’ve been impressed with their product lines ever since. Yes, they’re a bit more expensive than other cases on the market but I really think they’re a prime example of “you get what you pay for”.

The iSkin Aura adds minimal bulk to your iPhone, if any at all. The inside of the case is a thin rubber than won’t scratch or damage your device. The sides of the case are also rubber which provides a good grip. The back is a beautiful brushed metal that’s available in three different colors – grey, blue, and white.

I’ve been using the iSkin Aura for a good few months now and the quality is just what I’ve come to expect from iSkin. It’s worth keeping in mind that this case isn’t aimed for people who drop their phone frequently. It isn’t an Otterbox and doesn’t claim to be. If you don’t need heavy protection, you’ll love it. If you do need heavy protection, I wouldn’t recommend it.

• $34.95 – iMore Store link

Bamboo Stylus for iPad and iPad 2

I first learned of the Bamboo stylus when Leanna used it as her pick of the week. I’d tried several types of stylus’ and never found one that was a good weight and provided good accuracy while writing. Not to mention a lot of them have very cheap tips on them that will start to come apart or lose their shape after a while.

I find the Bamboo stylus to be the perfect combination of weight and design. It comes in several different colors and is priced very reasonably.

• $25.95 – $29.95 (depending on color choice) – Amazon link

Bose MIE2i in-ear headphones

I finally broke down several months ago and bought a “good” pair of headphones. The stock Apple ear buds always hurt my ears after an hour or so of use. My brother actually talked me into finally picking up a pair of Bose headphones. While they’re not new to 2011, they’re still a top seller when it comes to quality headphones (and they’re new to me).

Aside from the great sound quality, they’re extremely comfortable even when worn for long durations. They come with several different ear pieces to ensure the best fit individually. As you would expect, they’ve got a built in mic and clicker so you can use them not only for music but for phone calls and other tasks as well.

They’re a bit more expensive than other headphone choices but I’ve found the quality to be more than worth the price.

• $129.95 – Amazon link

Apple iPad 2 Smart Cover

The Smart Cover continues to be one of my favorite accessories for my iPad 2. The iPad 2 is much slimmer than its predecessor and I like to keep that form factor to a minimum. I don’t want a case that’s going to make it bulky.

I’ve found the Smart Cover to be versatile enough for my needs. I can prop it up in one way when I need to utilize the keyboard and another way when I want to sit back and watch a movie. It doesn’t provide the greatest protection considering it doesn’t protect the back at all but I’ve got that covered with an iSkin Solo Smart that compliments it perfectly without adding additional weight or bulk.

• $39.99 to $69.99 – Amazon link

iSkin Solo Smart for iPad 2

While I love my Smart Cover I still felt like the back was left wide open to scratches and potential damage. I wanted something I could use in addition to my Smart Cover.

Then I found the iSkin Solo Smart. Not only does it cover everything the Smart Cover doesn’t, including ports, it strengthens the Smart Cover’s connection. Along the left side you’ll find a small bracket that comes up and around the hinge of the Smart Cover. No matter how hard you pull, you’re Smart Cover won’t come unattached.

And if you don’t want to use a Smart Cover at all, the Solo Smart comes with an extra piece you can put inside the bracket so nothing on the back or sides of your iPad 2 is exposed.

• $52.99 – iSkin Solo Smart for iPad 2

Giveaway: Watch the video then leave a comment letting us know which of the Otterbox cases you’d love to win!

Last month, I had the pleasure of visiting the OtterBox headquarters in Fort Collins, CO and talk with Jordan about the history of the OtterBox name, the design and testing process, and get a closer look and description for each case series for the iPhone and iPad.

In addition to the interview, Jordan also passed on one of each case series to give away to our readers! Specifically, we have the following:

• Gunmetal Grey / Envy Green Defender Series
• Victory Commuter Series
• Gunmetal Reflex Series
• Black Impact Series

For a chance to win, just let us know which of these cases you would like to win in the comments below!

Like Chris Oldroyd, my most used iPhone and iPad accessories consists of a very short list. There are only have a few that I regularly used during the past year. Most of what I used was for device protection and power supply, with the exception of one accessory that enhanced my iPad experience for specific scenarios.

Smart Cover for iPad 2

I’m a minimalist at heart, and the Smart Cover is such a fantastic case, if you can even call it that, for those who want their iPad 2 as naked as possible. I won’t bore you with facts about the Smart Cover you already know, but would like to point out that if you want a little more protection, there are many other cases, like the Incipio Smart feather Ultralight Hard Shell Case that make a great companion with the Smart Cover.

• $39.99 to $69.99 – Amazon link

OtterBox Reflex Series for iPhone and iPad

Unfortunately, being the mother of a toddler means it’s time to put my minimalist desires aside and settle for protective cases for my iPhone and iPad. I came to this realization after my daughter ripped off my Smart Cover and pushed my iPad face down across the hardwood floor resulting in a massive scratch. I immediately turned to OtterBox due to their reputation for designing high quality protective cases.

Again, I like to have as little bulk as possible, so I opted out of the Defender Series, and picked up the Reflex Series for both my iPhone and iPad. This series is designed after the crumble zone of car. In addition to not being too bulky, this case easily slides on and off which was extremely appealing to me. I often times take off my case to take photos for iMore and it was important to me to have a case that wouldn’t be a 20 minute adventure to take on and off.

• $29.95 – iMore iPhone Accessory Store link
• $44.95 – iMore iPad Accessory Store link

Bamboo Stylus

As a math teacher, I find myself writing notes to email to my students all the time. Using my finger was not an option in my book, so I went on the search for the perfect stylus and settled on the Bamboo. My favorite thing about this stylus is how it actually has some weight to it making it feel more like a real pen.

In addition to writing out solutions to math problems, I also use the Bamboo to have my photography clients sign contracts – each and every one of them have been impressed.

• $29.99 – Amazon link

Qmadix USB Mobile Charging Kit

It’s no secret that one can deplete their iPhone’s battery in matter of hours, so I make sure I have power with me everywhere I go, including the car. Plugging my iPhone into the Qmadix USB Mobile Charging Kit is something that has become as automatic as putting on my seatbelt and starting the car.

I’ve had cars with lighters in strange, tight places, but the design of Qmadix USB Mobile Charging Kit has always worked great because the usb cable plugs into the top of the charger instead of at the end. The other feature I like about the Qmadix USB Mobile Charging Kit is that the USB cable is not permanently attached to the charger. This allows me to use any cable I wish, or steal this one from the car if I run into a situation where I need to.

• $19.95 – iMore Accessory Store link

Live from CES 2012, we take a look at the newer, better, missile-shooting Griffin Helo TC Assault iPhone and Android controlled helicopter. Need we say more?

The Griffin Helo TC Assault will be available in the Spring for $59.99.

At CES 2012, we encountered the Invisible Keypad, an iPhone case that allows you to “feel” your keyboard. The screen protector part of the case has ridges strategically placed for the iPhone’s portrait keyboard. These ridges are positioned above and outside each key so that you must tap between them versus on them. The creators went with this design to be less obstructive to your screen when the keyboard is not in use.

We only played with a prototype of the case. The final version promises to be slimmer and more polished and is scheduled to release in the first half of the year.

Mugtuck Monsters is an adorable iPhone app filled with 3 adorable little monsters that your children can interact with by touching their face and tickling them, poking them, and even rocking them to sleep. The app is cute in itself, but Mugtuck also offers a cuddly little iPhone case turning the monster into a stuffed animal.

We got our hands on them at CES 2012.

There was a time when Mugtuks were common. Alert children spotted them in hollow logs or beneath rocks. But their kind soon became scarce. Sightings decreased. Interaction dwindled. But no longer. Today there are so many we can’t manage them all! That’s why we’re presenting these monsters—Maggie, Bubba, Tim, and Charlie Belle—to you for adoption.

• Free for iPhone – App Store link

In the sea of iPhone accessories that is CES 2012, we made sure we took the time to stop by and talk to the good folks from Mophie – makers of such products like the mophie juicepack air and mophie juicepak plus that we reviewed recently.

They walked us through some of their development processes, expectations for battery technology in the future and some ideas of what they’re looking forward to coming out of CES 2012. They have some ‘disruptive’ products upcoming but weren’t fully ready to discuss those as of yet — plenty to look forward to in 2012 from mophie.

We’re here at CES 2012 talking to Belkin about iPhone cases. This time around they’ve aimed to differentiate cases for white and black iPhone users. Their new lines expected in April are focused specifically on the color differences. Certain cases will compliment the black variant while others will look better on white models.

Outside of expanding selection from a color and form factor aspect, they’ve been experimenting with new types of plastic that allow them to make cases even thinner and lighter. Not only are their new lines thinner and lighter but certain plastics can be used to create very realistic textures such as wood. While actual wood cases are on the market currently, plastic tends to allow your device to breathe better and not overheat, especially while charging.

Guitar Apprentice for iPad is a new guitar learning tool. Your iPad fits into the hardware accessory to allow you to strum and learn guitar. We got a closer look at CES 2012.

Guitar Apprentice will be available in July 2012 for $99.

Kogeto Dot brings panoramic video to the iPhone 4 & iPhone 4S. The Kogeto Dot is a small lens that attaches to the device with a small clip and makes use of their proprietary application to capture the video. Once the application is launched you can begin recording by pressing the volume up key on the device and after the recording begins you will need to lay the device flat in order to capture the proper video. After you are finished recording you end the recording in the application, it takes a second to pull it up and then you can preview the video you just captured.

After you have captured the video and previewed it you are able to share the video to your favorite social network or directly to their website. The interesting thing is that people who are viewing the movies from the web and other methods the 360 degree view is still available so they can enjoy all of what you captured.

We got a chance to see it at CES 2012 so check out the video!

Zagg SparqCase may just be the dream accessory for everyone complaining about their iPhone battery life since their upgrade to iOS5 or the iPhone 4S. Understanding that people like additional power while on the go Zagg has created the SparqCase, a battery case for the iPhone 4 / iPhone 4S that stands out from the rest for one major reason — it has a removable battery.

Sure, that may not seem all that important, it is already supposed to be an extra battery, who cares if it can be removed, right? Wrong. What if you are going out on a camping trip for a week and won’t have power, or you want to take better advantage of that tethering plan you have without the battery dying so quickly? With the Zagg SparqCase they were able to not only allow for a removable 1700mAh battery to fit in the case, but they also kept the size of the case rather small. The case is not nearly as thick as some of the others, and the ability to purchase an extra 1700mAh battery to keep with you on the go is something that will appeal to many users.

We got a chance to go hands-on with the Zagg SparqCase here at CES 2012, but unfortunately we will have to wait a few months for it to hit the store shelves.

Consisting of two initial products, the WeMo Home Control Switch and the WeMo Motion Sensor, WeMo is a customizable, accessible home automation solution designed to simplify home maintenance and bring peace of mind to busy families and individuals on the go. WeMo works with a home’s existing electrical system and requires only a Wi-Fi network and free smartphone app to set up and control. Simply plug the WeMo Home Control Switch into any electrical outlet and then plug in any device, such as a lamp, into the WeMo Home Control Switch. Through the free smartphone app, the item then can be turned on or off remotely or scheduled to turn on and off at set times. The second product in the line is the WeMo Motion Sensor, which works with the WeMo Home Control Switch to make your device react to motion. Used together, WeMo can create a home environment that can turn a light on when someone walks in a room, or off when no one is present.

Source: Belkin PR

In addition to Crayola ColorStudio HD, Crayola also announced Crayola Silly Face Swaps HD. An app that allows kids to place their face on coloring pages and once completed they can be saved to a gallery, e-mailed, uploaded to Facebook, or printed out. Crayola Lights, Camera, Color! HD is now available on the iTunes App Store for $1.99. A free lite version is available, as well, while Crayola Silly Face Swaps will arrive on iTunes this spring.

Source: Griffin & Crayola

CES 2012 is almost upon us and while Apple wouldn’t be caught dead at the show, there will certainly be plenty of iPhone, iPod touch and iPad accessories crowding the halls, perhaps some new apps for the new year, and who knows — maybe yet another dummy iPad leak?

We’ll have Rene, Leanna, Ally, Jared, and the whole Mobile Nations crew live at the event to bring you the very latest and greatest CES 2012 has to offer.

So my question, iMore Nation, is this — what do you want to see? What hot new cases do you want? What amazing new accessories? What killer new apps? Last year we had iPhone blood pressure readers, remote controlled drones, car starters, robot balls, and tons of other super sweet tech — what can they do to top themselves this year?

The last TiPb podcast ever! (Because we just changed to iMore!) Rene, Georgia, and Seth talk 2011 in devices, features, news, apps, and accessories! This is iPhone and iPad Live!

• Subscribe via iTunes: Audio | Video
• Subscribe via RSS: Audio | Video
• Download directly: Audio | Video

Year in Review

• Editors choice awards
• Readers choice awards

News

• Rumor: Apple January event to focus on iTunes University and Apple in education
• iPad passport scan enough to get photopgrapher into the U.S. from Canada
• Bizarre GameStore app, purportedly by Apple, appears in App Store
• iPad apps now running in full screen mode on the Apple TV with developer port
• Samsung’s new ad looks just like an Apple ad, uses one of the same actors too
• Samsung Ace a blast from iPhone 3G, iPhone 3GS past?

Tips

• Weekly Mod: How to replace a battery in an iPhone 3G, iPhone 3GS

Hosts

• Rene Ritchie (@reneritchie)
• Georgia (@GeorgiaTiPb)
• Seth Clifford (@sethclifford)

Credits

You can reach all of us on Twitter @TiPb, or you can email us at pd@tib.o, or leave a comment on the website when the show goes live.

We’re here every Wednesday night at 6pm Pacific, 9pm Eastern, 2am GMT at www.TiPb.com/live

For all our podcasts — audio and video — including iPhone and iPad Live, ZENandTECH and Superfunctional, Iterate and Girls Gone Gadgets and more… see MobileNations.com/shows

If you haven’t already please subscribe to all our shows in iTunes and leave a rating. It helps people find the show and means a lot to us!

Thanks to the TiPb iPhone Accessory Store for sponsoring the podcast, and to everyone who showed up for the live chat!

60beat has just launched its GamePad controller which it hopes will make gaming on an iOS device much closer to a dedicated console experience. The game content available to iPhone, iPad and iPod touch devices is now huge however the use of on-screen touch controls remains a major problem for many gamers.

With proprietary technology that uses the headphone jack as the interface, the 60beat GamePad significantly improves the iOS gaming experience by moving the controls from the screen to a fully-featured hand-held game controller. Developed to look, feel and operate like widely-used external controllers, GamePad easily and instantly transforms an iPad, iPhone or iPod touch into a game console. The ergonomic design delivers superior comfort and control. Buttons and joysticks are engineered to deliver precise response and the tactile sensations gamers expect.

The controller which is available to order now will cost $49.99; so it is not a cheap option. The biggest stumbling block with all of these type of accessories, is getting developer support. So far, the 60beat GamePad has only managed to garner support for two games.

Source: 60beat

Personally, I just switched to the Case-Mate Barely There Brushed Aluminum case and I’m loving it. Before that I was using the Draco IV and before that, the BodyGuardz Carbon Fiber.

As always, vote in the poll up top and give us the reasons why in the comments below. And if you’re not sure what kind of case you like yet, check out the links below for lots of examples!

• TiPb iPhone 4S Accessory Store
• Amazon iPhone 4S Accessories

Japanese news site Macotakara reported last week that Apple has supplied Made For iPhone accessory makers with a new authentication chip using Bluetooth 4.0 and the Bluetooth Low Energy protocol, making it easier to setup and authenticate devices for use over the dock connector and Bluetooth with a specific push for fitness and health-related apps.

It was previously speculated that this new authentication system would support Bluetooth for carrying content over AirPlay, but The Verge was able to squash the rumor with a bit of clarification from Apple. Instead, Apple wants more MFI accessory makers to use the new spec in devices like the recently-released Jawbone UP and similar hardware. The process will make it easier for users to configure wireless devices by connecting to WiFi networks and grabbing Bluetooth configuration information, ultimately requiring little effort on the user’s part to get everything up and running.

The Bluetooth Accessory Protocol was introduced in iOS 5, but only around 2 percent of MFI accessory makers are actually utilizing the new stack. Hopefully this new authentication chip will bring wider adoption to less tech-savvy iOS users, but we’ll have to wait until we start seeing supporting hardware pop up in the market.

Source: Macotakara via The Verge

We’ve been rocking and rolling all week here at TiPb and no better way to say hello to the weekend then by kicking off the second week of our  Win the iOS device of your dreams contest! The week 2 thread can be found in the TiPb forums make sure you get your entries in, it’s the only way you can win! You can register now for the forums and while you’re in there entering, be sure to check out some of the other threads as well:

• iPad 3 Forum: Week 2 thread: Win the iOS device of your dreams in the TiPb holiday giveaway!
• iOS Accessories Forum: Giveaway: Element Case Vapor COMP Epiphany for iPhone 4, iPhone 4S
• iPhone 4S Forum: Weird new problem with contact names
• iCloud Forums iTunes Match: It doesn’t “Just Work”
• iPhone Ringtones and Wallpaper Forum Official TiPb and Mobile Nations wallpapers!

If you’re not already a member of the TiPb Forums, register now!

If you’re the type of person that doesn’t like to put a physical case on their iPhone 4 or iPhone 4S, the Golla line of pouches may be more up your alley. While you aren’t using your iPhone they’ll do a great job of protecting it as well as giving you a bit of storage space for things such as credit cards or an ID.

I took a look at two different kind of Golla pouches – the Golla Jacinda Smart Bag and the Golla Bay Pouch. The main difference I noticed between the two were the material type. The Bay Pouch had more of a corduroy feel to it while the Jacinda pouch was more of a mesh on the inside.

Both cases fit the iPhone 4 and iPhone 4S extremely nicely. I felt like the fit wasn’t loose enough that my iPhone would fall out but it wasn’t tight to where it was a pain taking it in and out each time. I also liked the ability to keep my credit card, bank card, and ID in the front slot.

I hate carrying a purse so anytime I can get away with not having one, I do. This case made that possible. I found myself frequently using the carabiner to attach my phone to my belt loop or laptop bag. I thought this was extremely convenient. I never really found a use for the lanyard.

Pros

• Very nice fit with both the iPhone 4 and iPhone 4S
• I felt as if it honestly did protect the phone in most instances
• Great for anyone who wants to carry their device naked or with just a body shield
• Extra room for credit cards built into the case
• The included carabiner makes it super easy to clip the case onto virtually any bag or pair of pants
• A wide variety of colors, patterns, & styles to choose from

Cons

• Doesn’t play nice with form fitting cases which will make the phone too thick to fit. Certain thinner cases seemed to work but thicker ones won’t.
• Doesn’t provide protection while you are actually using the device
• You will have to take the device out or put it in bottom up when you need to charge your iPhone

Conclusion

I’d recommend this case for anyone that typically prefers keeping their iPhone naked. If you use an actual form fitting case on your iPhone you’ll most likely have to remove it in order for it to fit inside a Golla bag. This would probably go along nicely for those that use products like Wrapsol or InvisibleShield.

The Golla Bay Pouch and the Golla Jacinda Smart Bag are both available in the TiPb accessory store.

Giveaway

We’re giving away a couple (2) of Golla bags! Just head on over to the TiPb iPhone accessory store Golla bag page, pick the one you like best, and paste the URL into a comment below along with the reason you like it. If we pick you, we’ll send it to you! (U.S. shipping address required!)

Ready… set… go!

Belkin has announced its LiveAction Camera Grip and Camera Remote accessories for the iPhone 4S, iPhone 4 and iPod touch. We already knew that the Camera Remote was in the pipeline however the Camera Grip is something new and quite unique. Both accessories can only be used with Belkin’s LiveAction app which is available in the App Store.

The Camera Grip is designed to make your device feel more like a traditional camera. It features a grip that attaches to the dock connector and even fits over the top of most cases. This offers an easier way to hold your iPhone as well as offering dedicated buttons to shoot photographs and capture video. The grip also has a built in tripod mount that works with any standard tripod.

The Camera Remote is a Bluetooth enabled remote camera shutter. It has the ability to remotely initiate the iPhone or iPod touch camera shutter from up to 30 feet away. Again it has two buttons, one to control the camera and the other for video capture. The Camera Remote also comes with a stand to prop up your device to obtain the best angle for your shots.

Each of the new accessories will cost $49.99.

• Order the Belkin LiveAction Camera Grip from Amazon now

Every week a few of us from team TiPb will bring you our current favorite, most fun and useful App Store apps, WebApps, jailbreak apps, even the occasional accessory, web site, or desktop app if the mood strikes us. As long as they’re iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch related, they’re fair game.

To see what we picked, and to tell us your pick, follow on after the break!

Glow Draw – @Alli_Flowers

I would never suggest that I can draw. I have been drawing the same house since I was 7 years old. The lines are still crooked. My daughter says I can’t even draw stick figures – and she’s absolutely right. But I like to doodle.

I found Glow Draw while glancing through iTunes looking for something interesting for my new iPad. I don’t understand why it’s not one of the apps they you see in their tv commercials – it’s fun. It’s simple. Heck, it’s even free!

As I said, it’s a very simple app. You have a choice of a black, grey, or blue background, although you can use a photo from your camera roll if you want. Black is definitely the best. You have a limited choice of colors, but they’re all florescent. And that’s what makes it fun! When you first draw a line, you can’t even tell the color. But when you stop, the glow begins. And it’s cool! You can adjust the thickness of the line, and layering thin lines over thicker lines gives you an interesting textured effect.

Once you have completed your masterpiece, you can save it to your camera roll (so that you can use it as wallpaper), or send it to a friend. (Or send it to your daughter so she’ll know you can draw something better than a stick figure!)

[Free - App Store link]

Everyday – @sethclifford

It’s November, and that means it’s time to grow some facial hair for a good cause. Around the office, we’ve shaved and are letting our manly beards come roaring back in while we support the defeat of prostate cancer. While this happens, a few of us are personally documenting our struggle against a smooth face with an app called Everyday.

Everyday is a simple app that allows you to take a picture of your beautiful face once (or more than once) a day. The app provides some guides to line up the shot and a ghosting mode that shows you the position of your face in the last picture so you can make sure it’s as consistent as possible. When you’ve got a few, you can stitch them together in a little animated movie and watch your face’s progress over time. It’s a very cool effect.

You can set reminders within the app so that you don’t forget to take your shots, and it has a bunch of sharing features too. You can choose to manually share or automatically upload to your networks of choice (Facebook, Twitter, Tumblr, Flickr).

I can’t wait until my face forest comes back and I have a month’s worth of little snaps that I can turn into an animated video. In the meantime, if you’d like to help us in our rally against that jerk, cancer, you can visit our team page here.

[$1.99 - App Store link]

Tapatalk – @chrisoldroyd

This week’s pick is an app that I nearly bought loads of times but never did. This week I took the plunge and had one of those “Why the hell did I not buy this earlier” moments.

Tapatalk works with a lot of online forums, well the best ones anyway such as TiPb’s very own awesome forums. It presents them in an iPhone friendly way instead of trying to deal with a full blown forum. It provides a super easy way to read posts, see all new posts and everything else in between. I

It makes forums an absolute pleasure to view and participate in on the move with you iPhone, iPad or iPod touch. If you are on the fence, get off it and go and buy this. Your forum experience will never be the same again!

Tapatalk is a universal binary so works natively on the iPhone, iPad and iPod touch.

[$2.99 – App Store link]

OfficeTime – @iMuggle

This week I’ve been using an app that Leanna dug up for a giveaway a few weeks ago. OfficeTime basically allows you to set rates for different categories of services. From there you can add projects and timesheets as well as expenses. I’ve found it pretty simple to use in the time that I’ve spent with it.

I love that I can just start a timer while I’m working on something and then when I stop it, the amount is already calculated. I simply take the time and amount and quickly e-mail invoices to all my clients via Quickbooks. I’ve tried a lot of different apps for tracking time spent on projects and I think OffceTime is one I’ll stick with due to the ease of use and simplicity of it. I don’t need anything overly complicated since I already use Quickbooks for billing and invoicing. I just need one place to have all my client data so when it’s time to invoice for the week I can just view a summary and send them out.

They’ve also got a PC and Mac counterpart that you can sync back and forth which makes it even more convenient.

If you are a freelancer or contractor it’s definitely an app you’ll want to have a look at.

[$7.99 - App Store Link]

OINK – @JorjLim

Its such a simple concept, yet strangely addictive.

You can rate items, foods, websites, literally anything, creating a list of all the things you like and dislike.

For me, its replaced my need for check-in apps like Foursquare and GetGlue, because of the ability to be more concentrated with your ‘likes’. With locations, you can like and dislike individual items within the place, like individual rides at a theme park, instead of liking the entire park, and since you can re-oink, you can also like and dislike individual TV episodes instead of liking the whole show.

If you don’t go out much, you can also like and dislike websites, items around the home, drinks and more!

Its also loaded with a feature called ‘cred’, which is a more dynamic way to share. If you see someone who is a Level 6 in #beer, you could follow them for great beers, expanding the stretch of people you follow.

I added TiPb.com to the database, so go ahead and ‘love us’ up.

[Free - App Store link]

eSleep Lite – @reneritchie‘s sister

My sister is visiting this weekend so, eager for something new and different, I put her on the hot-seat and demanded an app pick. Her response, after a leveling stare, was eSleep Lite. What she likes about is, you have multiple music choices including RainSong and Ocean, and noise choices like PinkNoise, and WhiteNoise. You can loop the sounds, combine them together, record your own meditation on top of them, and there’s a timer so you can wake up to it.

And, it’s…

[Free - App Store link]

gTasks – Jared

Trying to keep up with a task list that I will actually monitor and complete has been a struggle for me. I have tried Wunderlist, Reminders, Calendar appointments and just about everything else, but since I am not always on the same computers I don’t personally find them very helpful. Generally when signed into a computer I have my GMail account open, and then it clicked, I needed something that synced with Google Tasks so I could keep organized. That is when I met gTasks, a great free application that syncs with Google Tasks, and offers all the basic features that I needed. I can now sync from and to my phone any task that needs to be completed, I can select when to be reminded, and I can clear tasks right from my device, allowing me to keep up with what needs to be kept up. If you are looking to add some additional organization into your life, be sure to check out gTasks free in the AppStore today!

[Free - App Store link]

Bamboo Stylus – @llofte

A couple weeks ago, Rene chose the notetaking app, Noteshelf [$4.99 - App Store link], as his pick of the week and I just had to buy it. My love for this app turned into an obsession with finding the perfect stylus. After about a week of jumping back and forth between my options, I went with the Bamboo Stylus.

I got this beauty in the mail, today, and boy do I love it! The problem with some styli is that they feel light and cheap – not the Bamboo! The Bamboo is weighted just right and is the perfect thickness. The length is also just right – shorter than an average pen, but long enough to be comfortable to hold. The tip is very smooth and does give a little. If I was one to press hard when writing, this may be a little bothersome – but I’m not.

Not only is the function amazing, so are the looks! The Bamboo is made out of metal and extremely stylish with the added color. There are six color choices and I went with blue. Although, I admit that I’m tempted to pick up a pink, orange, and green one as well…

[$29.99 - Bamboo Stylus]

Zombieville USA 2 – @IdealBrandon

Zombieville USA is the newly released sequel to the hit game for iOS: Zombieville USA. The game takes place in a zombie apocalyptic city, and you are the only one who has survived. What’s the premise of the game? Kill the zombies.

You start off with 3 simple, but useful weapons; a handgun, a baseball bat, and a shotgun. In each level, there are cities with different infection rates and as the levels get harder, the cities become infected with more zombies. The overall goal is to kill as many zombies as you can, collect money, and escape via helicopter before the times runs out. Unlike the original ZombieVille USA, once you die, you still get to keep your money and continue on your journey. Also, each weapon has different add-ons and you can always buy more weapons to help you kill the zombies. Lastly, there are more than one type of zombie, so be careful and have fun!

[$0.99 - App Store link]

Your pick?

You’re part of the team as well, so we will be choosing one reader to make a submission each week! Just look for the announcement on twitter or our Facebook page each weekend for a chance to be picked! In the meantime, jump into the comments and let us know your pick of the week!

VocaLive is a new iPad app that allows you to capture vocal recordings with your iPad and includes 12 real-time professional vocal effects. Combined with IK Multimedia’s iRig Mic, this is a great little setup for musicians.

VocaLive provides singers and vocalists with a suite of 12 real-time professional vocal effects along with a capable recorder for studio-quality sound in a portable package. The effects can be combined into a chain of 4 processors and saved as presets. A collection of up to 50 presets is included to get you up and running immediately.

• Real time vocal processor + recording app
• 4-processor vocal effects chain
• 12 professional studio quality vocal effects
• Single track recorder expandable to a full 8-track recording studio with master effects section, available for purchase in the in-app Shop
• Import and play songs to be used as backing tracks directly from your music library or computer
• Voice Cancel feature lets you create sing-along backing tracks by removing the vocal track from existing recordings
• 50 presets included with 4 Favorites for fast recall
• Includes metronome and vocal warm-up tools
• Low-latency for real time vocal processing

VocaLive is available on the iPad for $19.99. The iRig Mic is available for $59.99.

[App Store link]

Have an app you’d love to see featured on TiPb? Email us at iosapps@tipb.com, tell us about your app (include an iTunes link), and we’ll take a look.

If you’re looking for a stylish pair of headphones without a hefty price tag – the RF3 LIVE natural wood stereo earphones may be worth taking a second look at. Everything from the design of the actual earbuds down to the elegant packaging makes these headphones stand out from a lot of others in the same price range. But what about the most important feature of a good pair of headphones? Sound quality. Follow along to see how we felt they performed.

When it came to sound quality I thought the RF3 headphones held up extremely well for the price. The headphones themselves are noise isolating and come with a few different sets of tips for a better fit. They were rather comfortable to wear but I wouldn’t suggest them as the best option for athletes or runners as I had them fall out of my ears a few times.

The 3.5MM headphone jack has a longer adapter which also allowed me to use them with virtually any case. One quirk I’ve never really gotten over with my Bose headphones is that the jack is shorter and some cases including bumpers don’t like to play nice with them. That isn’t the case here.

The headphones also have a built-in mic that you can interact with just like you can default Apple earbuds. This means iPhone 4S users can easily interact with Siri quickly and easily. I tested the mic on several occasions and had no issues with Siri picking up on what I was saying even in a semi-noisy environment.

As far as the acoustics and sound while listening to music, I thought they held their own against many other headphones in the same price range. They even performed better than some more expensive headphones I’ve used in the past. The only issue I did see was when it came to bass levels. I felt that they were rather shallow. Even with my iPod settings set to enhance the bass they didn’t seem to perform near as well as my Bose MIE2i headphones. That is not as fair of a comparison though since they are nowhere near the same price range.

Overall, I’d say they perform well for the price if you want a decent pair of headphones that stand out from the rest without breaking the bank. You can find the RF3 LIVE natural wood headphones in the TiPb accessory store for $34.95.

Pros

• Great price for a quality product
• A variety of ear tip pieces included
• Built-in mic works exceptionally well
• Noise cancellation works just as good as most expensive noise isolating headphones
• The sound doesn’t distort when at a high level like some lower priced ear buds
• The headphone jack seems to fit well with almost every case I have, bulky or not

Cons

• Not great for runners and athletes as the headphones don’t offer a very firm and secure fit (or I just have little ears)
• The bass levels seem to be rather shallow compared to other ear buds

Giveaway

Just leave a comment below telling us what you’d listen to if you were given a set of RF3 LIVE Natural Wood Stereo Earphones of your very own! A special song? A great audio book? A bunch of Mobile Nations podcasts? What?

Every week a few of us from team TiPb will bring you our current favorite, most fun and useful App Store apps, WebApps, jailbreak apps, even the occasional accessory, web site, or desktop app if the mood strikes us. As long as they’re iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch related, they’re fair game.

To see what we picked, and to tell us your pick, follow on after the break!

Brodit car mount – @chrisoldroyd

This week I decided to source a car mount for my iPhone 4S. Having previously used Brodit mounts, I was happy to look at them again and boy was I not disappointed.

Brodit mounts are quite simply the best car mounts you can get for any device, they make them for all the popular phones but who cares about that, only the iPhone matters anyway! There are two parts to the mounting system. The first part is called a Proclip and this part is car specific. The clips are all designed to fix in some way to your car’s interior without the need for any fixings and there is never any damage when they are removed.

Once you have your Proclip chosen, you then select your iPhone holder; they come in loads of different configurations, some with chargers and some with simple pass through connectors and others without anything. These holders then screw into the Proclip and that’s it done!

The iPhone slots in perfectly and they are solid as a rock, a perfect way to mount your iPhone in your car, I cannot praise these mounts highly enough, they are simply the best!

[Brodit]

CatPaint – @sethclifford

“CatPaint is the premier cat-based image editor for the iPhone and iPod Touch.”

And with that, my life was forever changed. Cats… and LASERS. That’s all you need to know.

I’m having a busy, stressful week and this app makes me smile every time I look at it. Also, the icon is so epic, I want to weep at its awesomeness.

[CatPaint - $0.99 - iTunes link]

AssistiveTouch – @JorjLim

My iPhone 4′s Sleep/Wake Button decided to stop working. It doesn’t click in and doesn’t turn the screen off.

After the Apple Store told me I’d have to pay £120 for an out of warranty repair, I sought other options.

I came across ‘AssistiveTouch’ in the Accessibility settings. When you turn it on, a little ‘floating’ dot appears on the screen which opens a new menu. This menu allows you to perform hardware actions, without having the press any physical buttons.

Some of the options include, rotating the device, simulating a shake, pressing the home button and of course, pressing the sleep button.

While pressing the on-screen sleep button isn’t as easy as just pressing the physical sleep button, its definitely better than spending £120 on the repair.

Weather Alert USA – @azeis

This past week in the Northeast we had a bit of an unexpected snow storm blow through. It’s the first time in all my years I’ve ever seen such a huge snow storm come through New Jersey in October, and I tried my best to be prepared. I knew I would be out of the house running errands since it was the weekend and wanted to keep up with the latest conditions as best I could, for which I’d obviously turn to my phone. While the stock weather app on iOS is decent for the most part, I knew I’d need something that went above and beyond to keep me updated on the go — for that I discovered Weather Alert USA.

Weather Alert USA is a great app for weather geeks. Not only does it provide current temperatures and conditions, but it also has amazing depth when it comes to severe weather alerts which is just what I needed. It allows you to easily setup alerts by location and will notify you (with a rather annoying alert tone) of any weather alerts in your area. Push alerts are available for nearly everything you can think of, from hurricanes to winter storm warnings to dust advisories and more.

Day to day weather reports are a breeze as well as Weather Alert USA gives you easy access to weekly and hourly conditions, radars and warnings, detailed weather maps, sunrise/sunset times and much more. Truly one of the best weather apps I had found and more than adequate to keep even the biggest weather buff in the know. Of all the weather apps available to iPhone users, Weather Alert USA definitely gets my pick as number one.

[$3.99 - App Store Link]

Sonos – @jdipane

Music is a huge part of my daily routine, and recently I picked up a Sonos system for my house, and the Sonos controller for iOS makes the whole experience so much more enjoyable. If you have not heard of Sonos it is a wireless speaker system for your house or office which you can use your favorite music channels like Pandora, MOG, Spotify and many others. Being able to control the two different zones in my house, what is playing, and how loud it is all from the comfort of any place I can take my iPhone with me. If you have a Sonos system be sure to check the controller out, and if you don’t have a Sonos system yet, check out our reviews.

[Free - App Store link]

Instapaper 4 – @reneritchie

Seth picked Instapaper a couple of weeks ago. Good for him. He got first crack at explaining why he likes it so much, and his reasons are probably much more lucid and reasoned than mine. But I’m taking my shot anyway:

Instapaper lets me read stuff. That’s it.

And that’s much more than I’d otherwise manage to do. The sad truth is the more I write the less I have time to read. When I come across a fascinating, insightful, provocative, or otherwise interesting article on the web, I almost never have time to read it then and there. And that means, without a way to triage and save them for later, like Kaizer Soze’s devil, with a puff — or in this case a tap — they’d be gone.

Instapaper is that way to triage and save. If an article grabs me, I knock it over to Instapaper and then later, when I’m waiting for something, when I’m between states, when I finally get to take a break, they’re waiting for me.

Everything I want to read, all in my pocket.

That’s Instapaper.

[$4.99 - App Store link]

Siegecraft – @GeorgiaTiPb

I love Tower Defense games. It’s my passion. Siegecraft is my current Tower Defense of choice. It has gorgeous graphics and cool weapons, and it’s a lot of fun. It’s a little more interactive than most, and you have to aim so that adds to the challenge. Plus, can I say trebuchets and catapults? It’s universal, It’s adorable, it’s enjoyable, and best of all — right now it’s only a buck!

[$0.99 - App Store Link]

Newsstand – @Alli_Flowers

I admit I was one of those laughing loudest when iOS 5 was first introduced with Newsstand. It seemed especially silly on the iPhone. So I never gave it a second look – until yesterday when I got my iPad 2.

I started looking through it to see if they offered anything of any interest whatsoever, and lo-and-behold, there was Wired magazine. I love Wired and already subscribe. Sometimes I don’t read it because I’ll throw it down with a pile of other mail and just never get back to it. Or it’s one more thing I don’t want to stuff in my purse. I have a ton of excuses. But I love e-reading, so I linked my account and was up and running in no time.

Newsstand actually makes reading a magazine a pleasant experience, and it’s definitely easier to carry around a bunch of magazines on your iPad than in your purse, briefcase, or hands. Side to side scrolling goes page to page, with up/down to read an entire article. I got a kick out of some of the ads and some of the headlines being animated. It’s more than just an e-magazine. It should be like this!

The selection is still minimal – there aren’t any other magazines that I either already subscribe to, or have any interest in, but that should come with time. If you haven’t already done so, take a look and see some of the samples they give you just so you can get a feel for the product. Then just wait for your favorite publication!

WordPress – @llofte

I used to hate blogging from my iPhone or iPad, but the WordPress app for iOS has come a long way since then. Now, I can make a lot of formatting edits and insert pics at the exact size I want – this was a biggie for me.

Combined with Photo Stream, blogging photos of my daughter with my iPad is quick, painless, and can be done while relaxing on the couch. WordPress on my iPhone is great for blogging on the go or for correcting a typo that I notice on a TiPb post.

I used to strictly blog from my laptop or desktop, but about 80% of my personal blogging is now done mobile thanks to the WordPress app for iOS. I’ll admit that most of TiPb writing is still done on the desktop, but that’s because it involves much more and it’s just faster and more productive to do it on my iMac or MacBook.

[Free - App Store link]

W.E.L.D.E.R. – @iMuggle

I haven’t been playing too many games these days but this one has me hooked. It’s currently featured in the App Store and on sale for 50% off regular price. I am definitely glad I stumbled upon it while simply browsing.

If you enjoy games like Words With Friends or Scrabble this is definitely a game you’ll want to pick up. It’s somewhat of a fusion between Scrabble, Tetris, and the old school slider puzzles. You know, the ones you’d have to slide the pieces around to make a picture with only one free space. You simply swap letters either left, right, up, down, or diagonal to make words. You only get so many swaps though and for every 250 points you score you’ll earn an additional 5 swaps. When you run out of swaps the game ends.

It’s definitely a great time killer if you need something that isn’t fact paced and you can pick up and leave off at your leisure. It also features GameCenter integration where you can unlock achievements as well.

$1.99 – App Store Link

The Great Jitters: Pudding Panic – @mgmiller8693 (Reader’s Choice)

Playing this game reminds me of the great funhouse rides at the amusement park when I was growing up, where creepy and sometimes scary characters jump out at you from out of nowhere. I’ve only played the first few levels so far, but I love the game’s music, the fun and challenging gameplay, its sharp graphics, and the amazing sound/visual effects.

As per the game’s description in the App Store, your goal in the game is to lead a fearful blob of pudding through a spooky haunted house and scary monsters with freakish weapons and get to the exit as fast as you can.

It’s of course a very fitting game for the Halloween season that just passed, but it’s so likeable and addictive that I can definitely see myself playing it all year long. It has Game Center built-in, which is nice. I found the first 3 or 4 levels to be fairly easy, but beyond that, it definitely gets more challenging.

[$1.99 - App Store link]

Your pick?

You’re part of the team as well, so we will be choosing one reader to make a submission each week! Just look for the announcement on Twitter or our Facebook page each weekend for a chance to be picked! In the meantime, jump into the comments and let us know your pick of the week!

The ODM PH-1 accessory combined with its pH Meter companion app brings pH measurement to the iPhone and iPod touch. The accessory plugs into the iPhone and has a reader attached for taking the pH and temperature readings. The companion app records the readings, as well as the location, time, and date of the readings.

The could be a fabulous little kit for scientist working in the field for environmental testing, or even for commercial pool maintenance. Another great use would be in the science labs of schools – the labs could have a handful of the accessories and students could take turns using their iPhones and iPod touch’s to take readings for their projects.

Check out the video above, where Rene interviews the developer and creator of the ODM PH-1 precision pH Meter and receives a demo.

The PH-1 meter combines the iPhone’s GPS and communication abilities with a precision instrument to bring pH measurement to a new level. Not only does the system record the pH values, but the time, date and location of the measurement are also logged.

• Measures pH with accuracy to .01 pH
• Voltage measurement accurate to 1 mV
• Two temperature measurements: ambient and solution
• Records measurements with time stamp and location
• Reports measurements by date or location
• Sends measurement values by email
• Supports 1,2,3 or more point calibrations

Head on over to odm Technology’s website for ordering information. The companion app, pH Meter, is available on the iPhone for free.

[App Store link]

Have an app you’d love to see featured on TiPb? Email us at iosapps@tipb.com, tell us about your app (include an iTunes link), and we’ll take a look.

It’s no secret that the iPhone is equipped with a great little camera. In fact, there is a entire genre of photography dedicated to it – iPhoneography.

In recognition of the iPhone’s great photographic potential, TiPb has opened up a Photography and Video forum, and what a better way to celebrate it than to have a contest! A photo contest, that is.

To enter, head on over the forums and submit up to 3 of your best photos. The rules? The photos must have been taken with an iPhone and edited only with iPhone apps. With each submission, include which apps you used to make your edits.

The winner will receive a GorillaMobile tripod for iPhone courtesy of JOBY! This awesome little accessory includes a case that can be connected to the GorrillaMobile tripod in either landscape or portrait orientation. The legs of the GorillaMobile are extremely flexible and can be wrapped around and attached to nearly every surface. Every serious iPhoneographer should have one!

You have one week to submit your entries. We’ll choose our 5 favorites, post them on the blog, and let our readers vote for the winner!

Now, get shooting!

ENTER NOW!

The first accessory is the Chef Stand and Stylus; this is a washable stand with various viewing angles. It also comes with a wand or stylus which has an easy grip handle and a magnetic tip. It has been designed for you to carry on using your iPad even though your hands could be covered in food.

The second accessory is the Kitchen Cabinet Mount; this has an easy to use clamp and does not require any drilling of permanent installation. It secures your iPad at eye level allowing you to carry on cooking free in the knowledge that your iPad is safe and secure.

The final accessory is the Fridge Mount. It is basically a mount that secures to your refrigerator door via 3M CommandStrips. The iPad 2 can then be snapped into it and is held in place with magnets.

The accessories are designed for the iPad 2 with the exception of the Cabinet Mount. This is a universal type holder suitable for tablets between 7″ and 10″. The cost will be $39.99 for the Chef Stand, $49.99 for the Kitchen Cabinet Mount and $39.99 for the fridge mount.

[Belkin]

Case-Mate has put up a page on their website making a lot of claims regarding the iPhone 5 and further rumored iPhone 4S. Case-Mate believes the iPhone 5 will be a complete redesign and not just another incarnation of the current iPhone 4. They claim it will feature a wider and thinner design, wireless charging, and an upgraded camera.

Given iOS 5 should only be a few weeks away I would think we would hear something officially any day now. In the mean time here’s what Case-Mate thinks we are going to see concerning the iPhone 5 and iPhone 4S, which is supposedly just an updated model with a similar form factor to the already existing iPhone 4. They believe both versions will be launched, not just one.

The new iPhone 5 will feature a completely different form factor than its predecessor. Wider and thinner, the redesigned device features an extended home button. The screen size could see an increase to 4 inches.

Also included in the iPhone 5 will be an A5 dual-core processor, similar to the one used in the iPad 2. It will also be equipped with an 8 mega-pixel camera, wireless charging and iOS 5, which features iCloud portable storage capabilities…

The debate continues on whether the new iPhone will be an iPhone 5 or iPhone 4S. From our inside resources, it appears that Apple will be indeed launching both an iPhone 5 and an iPhone 4S in early October. The iPhone 4S will feature the same form factor as the iPhone 4 but will be upgraded with the latest technology, including the A5 dual-core processor and 8 mega-pixel camera.

Case-Mate goes on and says that the iPhone 5 will be available in 16 and 32 GB offerings. I’m not quite sure I am confident Apple will release two different versions of the iPhone or continue with their normal tradition of lowering the price of the previous model and using it in place of an entry level model.

The new page also allows you to sign up for updates regarding iPhone 5 and 4S accessories. That seems a bit sketchy to me. Releasing more rumors seems like an awfully good way to get people to sign up for news about your accessories and future products. We would take this insider info with an enormous grain of salt.

Case-Mate

The Seidio Desktop Charging Cradle is exactly what its name implies, a docking and charging station for your iPhone.

In contrast to Apple’s white dock, this cradle is matte black. It is very sturdy which allows you to easily use and tap on your iPhone without the risk of knocking it over. With dimensions at about 4″x2.5″x1″, the Seidio Desktop Charging Cradle isn’t tiny, but it isn’t bulky either. The cradle connects to your computer via micro-USB and iTunes does recognize when you dock your iPhone.

My favorite feature of this dock is that it is compatible with cases. There is a removable plate included with the cradle; this ensures that your iPhone fits properly in the dock regardless if you’re using a case or not . I use an Apple Bumper on my iPhone 4, and it fits perfectly with the plate removed. If the plate is attached, my iPhone 4 fits nice and snug in its naked state. Although the Seidio Desktop Charging Cradle is advertised for the iPhone 4, I tested it with my 3GS, and it fit just fine with the plate accessory removed.

If you’re looking for a charging dock for your iPhone, I recommend checking this one out. In addition to being a stylish way to charge my iPhone, I also enjoy having a slideshow display on it at the same time. The Seidio Desktop Charging Cradle is available in the TiPb Accessory Store.

Pros

• Compatible with case -Includes removable plate to ensure proper fitting
• Sturdy
• Stylish matte black
• Compatible with iPhone 4 and 3G/3GS bodies

Cons

• A little bit big (but not too big)

The Incipio DRX case for iPhone 4 is, in my opinion, one of Incipio’s best cases to date — and they’ve made some very good cases. Everything from the way it feels in your hand to how it adds virtually no bulk to your iPhone makes it a great investment. It also offers decent protection as well.

Click through for a complete review and some pictures!

The first thing you always notice when putting on a new case is how it feels in your hand. This case feels great. The material is slick but not slick enough that your phone is going to go flying out of your hand. It’s also extremely easy to put on and take off. I’ve had it on for a little over a week and it doesn’t seem to stretch out or lose its shape either.

Your buttons are all covered which means no dirt or dust can get in there. Covered buttons normally mean they are harder to press. That’s not the case with the DRX. The buttons are just as easy to push as they are when there is no case on the device. The case also produces a click feedback when pushing the buttons, which is nice.

The case comes all the way around and over the top of the antenna band which means you can set your phone face down for privacy and not have to worry about whether or not your iPhone screen is going to get scratched. The dock connector, headphone jack, and vibrate switch are easily accessible as well. I haven’t had any issues with any chargers, official or third party. They all fit perfectly. So do my Bose headphones.

The DRX provides a pretty substantial level of protection as well. It’ll protect you from moderate drops. If you plan on throwing your iPhone into a wall, I can’t promise any case would protect it except an Otterbox. Overall, if you are somewhat careful with your iPhone and just want a case that’ll protect you from moderate accidental drops, this case is perfect. You can find the Incipio DRX case in the TiPb accessory store. If you use this case or something else, let us know in the comments!

Pros

• Easy access to all ports and buttons
• Slim design means no added bulk
• The material is somewhat slick, slide it in your pocket and pull it back out just as easily (sans all that pocket lint!)
• Easy to take on and off without the case losing its shape over time
• The case curves around the screen edge, so setting your iPhone face down is a non-issue

Cons

• Not meant for heavy duty protection. Moderate, yes. But don’t throw your iPhone into a wall and expect it to come out unscathed
• Dust can sometimes accumulate around the edges of the screen by the corners of the case

The X Gear Anti Glare film for iPad aims to make Apple’s very shiny iPad shine just a little less in our eyes. Now screen protectors have always been my arch nemesis — I have always much preferred the feel of the actual glass over the feel of any screen protector. But I figured I’d give the X Gear anti-glare version a chance to change my mind.

Did it succeed? Read on to find out!

I’m extremely careful with my devices and always have a case on them so I’m not too concerned with screen protectors. The one reason I “would” consider one is to minimize fingerprints. That’s what I was really hoping to do here. Some screen protectors seem to minimize the rate at which fingerprints take over your screen. I was left disappointed after applying the X Gear anti-glare film as it seemed to accumulate just as many fingerprints (if not more), than the naked glass did. It did seem to wipe down quicker than the glass does so I suppose that could be considered a positive. And it didn’t do too much to minimize glare either.

The process of putting the screen protector on was simple enough. If this process is something you’re unfamiliar with, check out our guide on how to apply a screen protector to your iPhone or iPad. I did end up with a few bubbles but I managed to get those out with the soft card that X Gear provides with the screen protector. They also include a cleaning cloth as well.

Overall, the quality of the screen protector was pretty good. It just doesn’t do much to minimize fingerprints. If you’re looking for something to add more protection from scratches, the thickness seems to be pretty substantial. It isn’t that noticeable when it’s on the device until you feel the screen. There’s a noticeable difference from what the glass feels like. When scrolling and sliding your finger around, it just isn’t as smooth. This is unfortunately the case with most screen protectors. It’s just not the same experience.

If you’re in the market for a screen protector that’s a bit more durable and you don’t mind getting used to your iPad screen feeling a bit different to the touch, I’d say this is a pretty decent screen protector. I still prefer the feel of other protectors better, such as the BodyGuardz screen protectors that are also available in the TiPb accessory store for around the same price.

You can check out the X Gear Anti Glare film for iPad in the TiPb Accessory store.

Pros

• Easy to apply
• Thicker than some other, flimsier screen protectors
• After applied, it’s barely visible

Cons

• Doesn’t do much when it comes to preventing fingerprints
• The area by the home button didn’t stick as well as it should
• The texture is a bit grippy so it takes some getting used to
• I wouldn’t really call it “anti-glare”

Just get a new white iPhone 4 and curious as to which cases will better show it off? Want to protect that beautiful glass display (and glass back!) and keep that white looking bright? Well read on for the TiPb store’s top 10 most recommended, most must-have white iPhone cases to get your started.

BodyGuardz Protective Skins

What’s a better case than almost no case at all? With BodyGuardz protective skins you get the next best thing to naked, “made from the same material that is used to shield the front of automobiles from stones and other abrasive elements.” (And we’ve tested to prove it). If you want to enjoy your precious new white iPhone almost the way Jony Ive intended, this is the way to go. [TiPb store link]

Also try:

• InvisibleShield, for those who prefer this brand of film. [TiPb store link]
• Tat Skinz Carbon Fiber from the same people who make BodyGuardz with a great grip ad feel. [TiPb store link]
• DODOcase BOOKback packs luxury leather into a super slim skin. [DODOcase]

Apple Bumpers

While protective films cover the glass, bumpers cover and defend the antenna and give you enough of an edge you can put your iPhone down without having to worry about it coming in contact with any potentially damaging surfaces. If you’re in a low signal area they’ll also stop you from “holding it wrong“. Plus, the black, white, green, blue, orange, and pink colors look really sweet on the white iPhone — there’s a reason all of Apple’s initial bumper art was shown off on white. [Apple Store link]

Also try:

• Element Case Vapor Case for high end, hypercar style bumper-ing [Element Case link]
• Mobi Bumper is so inexpensive you can easily justify getting one each of the clear, gray, pink, and purple [TiPb store link]

Case-Mate Chrome Barely There Skin Case

You knew I had to pic this, right? If you’re worried about the white iPhone 4 being 0.2mm thicker than the black iPhone 4, stop. The Case-Mate Chrome fits the white iPhone 4 perfectly. And sure it covers up a lot of the back… but it does it with chrome and, frankly, it looks stunning! It remains one of my favorite all-time cases and with good reason — it protects my iPhone while giving me unconstrained use of the screen and big opening around the dock and other ports so all my other accessories, like car chargers, fit. [TiPb store link]

Also try:

Mobi Metal Back are inexpensive and look absolutely fabulous on the white iPhone 4. [TiPb store link] White Diamonds and white iPhone 4 equals gorgeous. I’m not even joking. Swoon. [White Diamonds link]

Overboard Pro White Waterproof Case

Life’s a beach, but at least with Overboard you can take your beautiful new white iPhone 4 to one without worrying it will suffer water damage. It’s also great for long soaks in the tub, jogging in the rain, or even diving into the pool and going through the car wash! You can get it with matching earphones for the total water win. I don’t vacation without it. [TiPb store link]

Also try:

• Aquapac, if light blue is more your thing [TiPb store link]
• Golla bags are great if you hike more than splash. [TiPb store link]

Mophie juice pack air

Okay, this doesn’t really show off your white iPhone 4, but it will keep it charged up so you can show it off longer and to many more people. Charge it separately or charge both your iPhone and the case together and you’ll get up to double the amount of music, talking, gaming, and everything else you love doing on your iPhone. Great for road warriors, travelers, and serious shoppers alike! [TiPb store link]

• Mophie juice pak plus gives even more power for slightly more expense. [TiPb store link]

Your top case?

So there you have them, our top 5 best cases to get you showing off your white iPhone 4. For chargers, cables, headsets, Bluetooth, and more, check out our Top 10 accessories for your iPhone 4 list. Also check out our Picks of the Week and iPhone Accessories Forum for more recommendations, and if we missed any of your favorites leave them in the comments below!

Sponsored by the TiPb iPhone 4 Accessory Store

Every week a few of us from team TiPb will bring you our current favorite, most fun and useful App Store apps, WebApps, jailbreak apps, even the occasional accessory, web site, or desktop app if the mood strikes us. As long as they’re iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch related, they’re fair game.

To see what we picked, and to tell us your pick, follow on after the break!

Digits Calculator for the iPad + iPhone – @skeetobite

My pick of the week is the calculator app for the iPad – “Digits Calculator for the iPad + iPhone”. Yes, as you can guess, this is a universal binary, but I was trying it out on the iPad since (for who knows what reason) the iPad doesn’t come with a calculator. The app is pretty straightforward – you have the numbers for entry, you have a “tape” to track what you have done, you have standard options for things like percent, change the sign, memory. But the app also has a few advanced features I like. For example, you can email a copy of the tape and you can put a new “roll” of paper tape in to start a new set of calculation (while keeping the old roll intact). In addition, there are some advance math features available: square root, square function, cube function, reciprocal function, etc. Okay, maybe “advanced” was the right term…commonly used features that may not be on most simplistic calculators. But in the end, it winds up being a simple, easy to use calculator for the iPad.

[$1.99 - iTunes link]

Take Five – @reneritchie

This happens to me all the time. I’m listening to a podcast, something else demands my attention — a bit of work, a phone call, an email, whatever — and so I pause my iPhone and then… a couple hours later I realize it’s still paused. All. The. Time. It happened so often I just learned to accept it.

And then I saw Take Five.

From the typically genius minds at the Iconfactory], Take Five lets you pause a podcast, music, or any type of audio playable by the iPod app, and then automagically resumes playing it later. The default is five minutes but you can start, stop, and adjust as you like.

And because it comes from the Iconfactory, it’s as good looking and well thought out as it is smart.

If you have to deal with the culture of constant interruption, Take Five. You deserve it.

[$0.99 - iTunes link]

Atari Greatest Hits – @chrisoldroyd

This week I have chosen a games package that is wrapped in nostalgia. Atari Greatest Hits is a fantastic compilation of early console and arcade games that drags you from 2011 back to the 1980′s.

If you are over 30, this is a must buy game, it has loads of original games (0ver 100) to play and literally takes me back to my childhood. Sure the graphics are basic, it stays true to the originals; I wouldn’t want it any other way.

The app is free to download but the games are all purchased in-app. They can be bought as packages of 3-4 games at $0.99 a pop or you can have them all for $14.99.

Look, I can’t say this any clearer, go and get it now!!!

[Free – iTunes Link]

Weight Watchers for iPhone – @iMuggle

My New Years resolution this year was to lose a couple lbs. My mom had done Weight Watchers in the past and it was extremely successful for her, so I figured I would give it a try. The Weight Watchers iPhone app has definitely helped me be a lot more rigorous about keeping track of my points and really making better decisions about what I choose to eat. If I questioned what I was eating, I didn’t have to eat it and look it up later to find out it was worth a ton of points, I’d just look it up on my iPhone and know before I made an eating decision.

Not only does it have a built in points tracker and calculator, it also has a large database of restaurants with pre-calculated point values. My only peeve is that the Weight Watchers app has not been updated once in the time I’ve been using it and there are a lot of major places missing from the restaurant portion of the app.

Overall the app does make sticking with Weight Watchers a lot easier. It syncs with your Weight Watchers account online for easy access from your iPhone or computer. The app also contains recipe suggestions, success stories, and of course, a built-in weight tracker. Since January, I’ve managed to lose a little over 20 lbs. So besides the lack of updates for point values for common restaurants, I’m extremely happy with the app. If you own an iPhone or iPod Touch and are doing Weight Watchers, I highly suggest checking it out!

[Free, with active Weight Watcher subscription - iTunes Link]

iBooks – @JBaby_9783

I’ve been using iBooks to read a lot lately. I think iBooks is the best ereader in the App Store. I know many people will disagree with me on that point, but let me try and persuade you. Please keep in mind that my pick is about the app and not the iBooks Store. iBooks is simple and looks stunning. It doesn’t rely simply on the store for content. All the books I’ve been reading lately haven’t come from the iBookstore at all. Now you are probably asking yourself why doesn’t she just use Stanza to read her DRM-free ePubs? Well the reason is simple, Stanza doesn’t sync my place between my iPhone and iPad. There are other apps that sync your place but none, that I know of, sync your content that hasn’t been purchased from them. That is iBooks killer feature.

There are some things I don’t like about it app though. I wish the status bar would disappear so there could be a fullscreen mode. Tapping the center of screen to calls up the settings. That action could also bring up the status bar. Finally, I wish there was a night mode. You can get around that by turning Sepia off and setting your Accessibility triple click to White on Black. iBooks’ killer feature trumps these very minor complaints. Give iBooks and its killer feature a try and tweet me to let me know what you think!

[Free - iTunes link]

SafeSync – @Alli_Flowers

Best discovery at CTIA 2011. SafeSync is the newest offering from our friends at TrendMicro – the antivirus people. While the service is not free, the iPhone app is. Why is it better than Dropbox? You don’t need to have copies of the files you want stored in the cloud. You don’t need to create separate folders to sync. If you want your music folder sync’d, just put a check by it in the settings.

SafeSync syncs in the background, and while the initial sync takes a while (depending on your connection speed and the number of files you’re backing up), once the initial backup is complete, it will automagically back up changed/added files without your having to do anything. Of course, you can access your files from anywhere. You can log on to your SafeSync account from any desktop (pc or Mac) or your iPhone, via the app.

From the iPhone app, you can view your photos, or even listen to the music you have stored. This is cloud computing at its absolute finest.

[Free - iTunes link]

Apple Wireless Bluetooth Keyboard – @andrewwray

My pick this week is the Apple Wireless Keyboard, not only because of its simplicity and mobility in nature (thin is in!), but also because it’s built like a tank and can take a real beating without showing any signs of abuse. I’ve been using it over the past six months after I got the first iPad and realized I needed something more than the software keyboard for certain tasks that required heavy text input.

Every morning before heading to work, I throw the keyboard into my bag along with a number of other items. I won’t hesitate to say that if this were any other standard keyboard, it’d probably be broken by now. Yet my Apple keyboard doesn’t even have a scratch on it! The build quality is top-notch, as with anything you’d expect from Apple, and I’d highly recommend picking one up if you’re looking for a better way to type on the iPad. And yes, it works with the iPhone too!

[$69 -- Apple Store]

SoundTracking -@MsLafleur82 (Reader’s Choice)

SoundTracking is a new an exciting way to explore, discover and share your taste in music. It allows you to share music from iPod library or “Shazam” a song you have heard on the radio. You can also search for a song using their database to share. One of the really cool things about soundtracking is that like iTunes it gives your a friends a 30 second preview of the song you are listening to. If they feel like buying the song, they are one tap away!

You can sign in and share using Facebook, Twitter and Foursquare. If geotagging isn’t your cup of tea, you can choose not to sign into Foursquare. Once signed in, let the world know the soundtrack of your life. You can use the album art of the song or take a picture and add a comment for some individuality!

Soundtracking is like Instagram for music and a great alternative for Ping. You can comment, like and love a friend’s musical taste without the clutter of Ping! The best thing about this app is that its free!

[Free- iTunes link]

Your pick?

You’re part of the team as well, so we will be choosing one reader to make a submission each week! Just look for the announcement on [twitter](http://www.twitter.com/llofte] or our Facebook page each weekend for a chance to be picked! In the meantime, jump into the comments and let us know your pick of the week!

The Keru Pocket Pouch is for anyone looking for a slim, stylish pouch for iPhone 4. Its super trim form will fit nicely in your pocket and the designer print will make you look good.

The biggest appeal of the Keru Pocket Pouch is how slim it is. Your iPhone will fit perfectly. So perfectly, in fact, that without the pull ribbon, it would be too difficult to remove your iPhone from the case. Only a small portion of the iPhone is exposed on the top, and the case hugs it in a way to prevent your iPhone from being bumped or removed by hand. Only about 1 inch of ribbon sticks out of the case for quick and easy removal.

The exterior of the case is made from leather and is designed using a process that allows museum quality prints without sacrificing any of the performance. The interior is lined with a felt material that is mediocrely soft. I’m not worried about scratches, but it’s probably the least soft liner I’ve felt on a case.

The Keru Pocket Pouch is available in five different designs (both girly and manly) from the TiPb Accessory Store.

Pros

• Super slim
• Fashionable design
• Leather
• Draw string for easy removal

Cons

• Liner isn’t very soft

That… Rene ran off to the Consumer Electronic Show in Las Vegas and left me here to anchor the show all by myself! Luckily (for him!), he sent back lots of footage from the CES 2011 show floor, including some of the coolest iPhone and iPad accessories we’ll be seeing this year. That’s the topic for this special edition episode of our video show, TiPb TV!

We’re talking cases, chargers, stands, robots, apps, and even a sneak peek at just what might be a model of the next generation iPad 2!

Want to see it for yourself? I know I do! Watch along up top and then tell me which ones you’re most looking forward to in 2011!

ZAGG’s ZAGGmate is an aircraft-grade aluminum case for iPad… that also happens to convert to a full-on Bluetooth keyboard. It looks great — executive even — but for $99 it also provides road-warrier level text entry on top of protection.

Check out our video live from CES 2011 and let us know — if you had any worries about iPad as a content creation, typing champion, would a case like this change your mind?

[ZAGG]

Monsoon has announced two new boxes, Volkano Flow and Volkano Blast along with apps to let you transport (“sling”) your home TV to your iPhone or iPad.

Flow is $99 and is barebones slinging. Blast is $199 and added DVR, schedule recordings, web video like YouTube, and mobile video recording (you pick your mobile device and it will record a TV show specifically for that format). The iPad and iPhone apps are $9.99 and the Windows and Mac apps are free.

We got the live demo at CES 2011 so watch along and let us know if you’re interested in the new, cheap Volkanos.

[Monsoon]

Take old world fun like drawing with crayons or magic markers and update it with the latest in high tech so it runs on the iPad and what do you get? All shades of awesome.

Grab an iMarker, launch the companion app, choose a active coloring landscape, and get your crayon on.

We checked it out live at CES 2011 so watch the video up top and let us know how busy this would keep your kids!

[Griffin]

MusicSkins had the Beatles first, then Apple copied them, so now they’ve gone from one generation of music to a new generation of media with their new line of MTV-based skins — South Park, Jackass, Sponge Bob, Dora, to Jersey Shore. And if none of those do it for you, you can create your own.

Check out the video above and let us know which new skin is your favorite!

[MusicSkins]

Last year we saw Gelaskin leap into Marvel Comics, this year they got their pixel art on with some awesome looking skins from eBoy. They’re also full on into custom skins so if neither Wolverine nor aliasing catches your fancy, you can whip up a Gelaskin all your own.

Check out the video live from CES 2011 and let us know which skins are your favorites!

[Gelaskins]

iSkin isn’t content to let their SoloFX for iPhone series sit still — the 2011 model doesn’t just wrap around, it slides over for even more protection, and more good looks. They’re also continuing to push the envelop (i.e. case) when it comes to colors, textures, sparkle, and pizzaz.

We could up with the live at CES 2011 to get the full story so check out the video and let us know what you think!

[iSkin]

If the Otterbox Defender is like full plate armor when it comes to iPhone protection, and the Commuter is plate mail, then the newly announced Reflex is easy on, easy off, ultra modern kevlar.

Rather than layers of soft silicone and hard plastic, Reflex is a two part plastic shell that slides off when you want to dock and slides back on when you’re ready rock.

We got a look at it live at CES 2011, so check out the video and let us know what you think — old school Defender or new school Reflex?

[Otterbox]

NLU Products of BodyGuardz fame showed off both their new dry-apply skins and their new line of iPhone 4 cases that include the Shelter and the bumper-style Ciderz. Don’t worry, though, their traditional liquid-apply BodyGuardz aren’t going anywhere so you get the best of both worlds — choice.

Check out the video live from the CES 2011 show floor and let us know which you prefer — dry apply or traditional?

[NLU Products]

White Diamond knows that there are many humans who, when they see something bright and shiny out of the corner of their eye — like a crystal emblazoned iPhone or iPad case — they’ll move irresistibly towards it. Available in Europe and coming soon to North America, they focus on iPhone and iPad as high end fashion accessories with artistic design.

Check out the video above, live from CES 2011, and let us know what you think!

[White Diamonds]

Marware, maker of TiPb Store favorite Eco Vue and Eco Flip, are showing off their next generation executive iPad case — the CEO Premiere. Rather than eco-leather, this uses the traditional type and also includes a new grip system to keep your iPad in place, no more pocket.

We take a look at it live from CES 2011 so check out the video and let us know what you think, is it a worthy successor?

Altec Lansing’s Octiv Duo for iPhone and iPod is designed to charge two devices at once in a small, stealthy easy to hide-away in a corner package. The Octiv Stage for iPad turns your tablet a place to stand for watching movies, typing, or using apps.

Live from CES 2011, we get the full demo of these Innovation Award winning accessories from the show floor, so watch along and let us know what you think!

[Altec Lansing]

Griffin’s CarTrip is a tiny Bluetooth peripheral that plugs into the diagnostic port contained on most modern cars and transmits back usage data and error messages to an app on your iPhone. You can use this data to track different performance data over time to try and maximize your fuel efficiency, or just to pull off any problem reports so you know when — and why! — you need to go to a mechanic.

We got to take a look at it live from the CES 2011 show floor so check out the video up top and let us know whether you’ll be getting one for your ride in the comments below!

[Griffin]

iPhone and iPad cases, chargers, and accessories galore, that was the theme for CES 2011 and here’s the gallery to prove it. We’re still processing tons of video interviews and we’ll be posting those the rest of the week but until then, enjoy the stills after the break!

What iPhone or iPad accessory do you most want in 2011? Rene is off covering CES 2011 and while I admit some of the things we’ve seen so far especially the medical accessories like heart and blood pressure monitors are super sweet (and I want them!) it’s been almost 2 years since Apple opened up iOS 3 (iPhone 3.0) to accessories and there’s just got to be more coming, right?

A really great game controller with thumb stick and button controls, a really slim Bluetooth keyboard case that just works, a dashboard mount that lets your iPad take over your car’s interface system, a helmet that holds your iPhone in front of you so you can FaceTime while you walk (what?) would be a good start, but what more do you want in 2011?

Withings is already well known for their internet-enabled scale but now they’re also introducing blood pressure readings and a baby monitor that all share and report data back to your iPhone over Wi-Fi or 3G. The scale is a handy way to keep a record and track your weight over time. Likewise the blood pressure interface. The baby monitor offers full audio and video whether you’re across the hall, across town, or halfway across the world.

We got the full tour, live at CES 2011 Unvelied. Check out the video above and pictures after the break and let us know…

…Are these the kind of health and medical related peripherals you’ve been waiting for?

When placed in the dock, your iPhone or iPod Touch will be charged, but also automatically backed up. The backup is for photographs and contacts only. Unfortunately you cannot backup any applications, music, video, SMS, Email etc. To enable the backup process, you also need an app from the App Store called SuperHero which is free. The app launches automatically when you place your device in the dock. The dock is connected directly to a power outlet and has no facility to connect to a Mac or PC should you want to sync to iTunes.

The included 4GB SD card can be replaced with a larger capacity card should you need more storage for your photos and contacts; also more than one device can be backed up to the same SD card.

The Iomega SuperHero should be available worldwide later this month for around $70 and is compatible with iPhone 3G, 3GS and 4 as well the 2nd generation iPod Touch and above.

Can you see yourself using a dock like this? Is it too limited as a backup solution? Let us know in the comments!

[cnet]

The TiPb Store has the coolest iPod nano watch straps, including the Griffin Wristlet for iPod nano, the Giffin Aerosport for iPod nano, and the Griffin Slap for iPod nano. So if you just got a hot new iPod nano for Christmas and want to wear it as a super sweet watch, take a look and order away!

The Griffin Slap for iPod nano are cool, fun, multi-color slap bracelets straight from the 80′s that Griffin has brought back with a vengeance for the tech of 2010. They are easy to put on your wrist, just hit them against your wrist and they wrap perfectly around your arm. [TiPb Store link].

The Griffin wristlet for the iPod nano fits around your wrist with tough stretchy silicon then protects and covers the iPod nano. You can still access all of the controls and it even has a back slit allows access to the iPod Nanos clip. [TiPb Store link]

The Griffin AeroSport watch strap for the iPod nano is the perfect gift for every athlete and fits almost any wrist size. It is made of lycra so will be comfortable while you work out [TiPb Store link].

Do any of these tempt you? Send us some pictures if you pick one up!

Sponsored by the TiPb iPod nano accessory store

Just get a new iPad and curious which are the best, most must-have accessories you need get first? Want to protect that beautiful glass display, keep that aluminum back scratch-free, or just keep your battery charged on the go? Well read on for the TiPb store’s top 10 most recommended, most must-have iPad accessories to get your started.

Skin cases: Bodyguardz protective skin

You can’t get much lighter than an ultra-strong, ultra-durable protective skin like Bodyguardz for your iPad. If you like the look of your iPad, don’t want the bulk of a regular case, but do want to protect it from scratches and abrasions, then this is the way to go. [$29.95 - TiPb store link]

Also check out:

• Case-Mate Gelli Kaleidoscope Case for iPad for protection from minor impact and a lot of color and style. [$36.95 - TiPb store link]
• Incipio SILICRYLIC Case for iPad adds shock absorbing, two piece, two color design to the mix. [$47.95 - TiPb store link]

Flip cases: Marware Eco-Vue

The Marware Eco-Vue is the executive iPad case with all the trimmings. It’s the Cadillac option. Eco-friendly leather exterior meets plush suede interior meets hand-strap and keyboard stand. This is the iPad case for those who mean business or want to look like they do. [$42.95 - TiPb store link]

• DODOCase for iPad brings old world style and craftsmanship to your high tech iPad. [$59.95 - DODOCase store link]
• Griffen Elan Passport Case for iPad adds slots for credit cards, business cards, and a place for your papers. [$47.95 - TiPb store link]

Protective cases: Otterbox Defender

The Otterbox Defender case is multilayer armor for your iPad. A hard inner shell with clear plastic protection for the screen and Apple Logo is covered by a soft rubber outer shell that covers all the buttons and ports and keeps your iPad safe from impact, abrasion, and incidental weather. It even has a kickstand you can fold up and use as a faceplate for extra protection. It’s pretty only in the bulldog sense of the word but if you need to keep your iPad safe, it’s also your go-to case. [$86.95 - TiPb store link]

Also check out:

• Aquapack Waterproof Case for total bath, pool, and beach protection for your iPad. [$42.95 - iTunes link]
• Otterbox Commuter Case gives a good level of protection with less bulk. [$62.95 - TiPb store link]

Charging cables: SPE Retractable Sync and Charge Cable

The SPE Retractable Sync and Charge Cable is just like the standard iPad cable — USB 2.0 on one end, 30-pin dock connector on the other — but can go from 24-inches fully extended down to just 4.5-inches to easily fit in your jacket, bag, purse, or pocket. You can plug it into your WIndows or Mac PC, or into an AC adapter to charge your iPad without worrying about excess cable getting in your way. That makes it especially useful for road warriors, students, and frequent travelers. [$4.95 - TiPb store link]

Also check out:

• Apple USB AC Adapter with Sync Cable so you can plug into a wall as well into a PC. [$14.95 - TiPb store link]
• Griffin PowerJolt Plus not only lets you plug into your car, but passes through power to a second car adapter. [$27.95 - TiPb store link]

Stands: Griffin A-Frame for iPad

The Griffin A-Frame has high quality, aluminum construction that not only matches your iPad’s good looks but makes it more convenient as well. You can either set it up easel-style to watch movies, look at photos, or follow recipes, or lay it back so it props up your iPad at a more comfortable keyboard angle. [$49.99 - TiPb store link]

Also check out:

• Element Case Joule Stand for high end, high polish iPad viewing in landscape or portrait. [$129.00 - Element Case store link]
• Twelve South Compass Stand is a versatile, collapsable, low cost option for iPad. [$39.99 - Twelve South store link

Keyboards: Freedom i-Connex Mini

The iPad has a good virtual, multitouch keyboard but if you want to pound out pages of prose, slave away on spreadsheets, or just get a lot of document work done, you're going to need some hardware keys. The Freedom i-Connex Mini connects via Bluetooth and gives you that tactile feedback while staying ultra small and ultra portable on the road, in the air, or at the coffee shop. [$37.95 - TiPb store link link]

Also check out:

• Apple Bluetooth Keyboard is the same keyboard Apple supplies for Macs and MacBooks for those who value consistency. [$69.00 - Apple store link]
• Apple iPad Keyboard Dock is for those who want a wired connection and specialty iPad keys on their board. [$69.00 - Apple store link]

Battery Chargers: Ventev PowerCELL

Since iPad doesn’t have a removable battery crafty accessory makers have made all sorts of different external battery packs for it, including Ventev PowerCELL. Rather than a case or dongle, the Ventev is a power pack with ports for not only iiPad’s dock cable but also mini and micro USB so you can charge Bluetooth headsets and even other devices. This makes it the perfect universal power solution for travelers. [$54.95 - TiPb store link]

• mophie juicepack powerstation is an external battery pack that can charge iPad or just about anything. [$99.95 - Mophie link]
• Hypermac offers a wide range of colors, sizes, and price points. [Various - Hypermac store link]

Headsets: v-moda vibe duo In-Ear Stereo Headset

The v-moda vibe duo cram a huge audio punch into a tiny in-ear package. With amazing clarity, great noise-reduction, and a ton of drive they’re a great compromise for getting high-end quality at lower-end prices. They’ve also got a microphone so you can not only rock, but use them for VoIP calls, recording, and more. [$99.95 - TiPb store link]

Also check out:

• Apple In-Ear Headpohones with Remote and Mic are also great quality at a good price and perfect for Apple purists. [$79.00 - Apple store link]
• maximo iMetal Isolation Stereo Headset are for those who don’t want to spend a ton of cash on their headsets but still want a ton of music for their money. [$49.95 - TiPb store link]

Stereo Bluetooth headset: Motorola MOTOROKR S9-HD

Motorola’s MOTOROKR S9-HD makes a great product better with better audio quality and full 3D immersion. If you like the behind-the-head style of headset, you won’t find better — or more booming! — than the S9-HD. [$84.95 - TiPb store link]

Also check out:

• Motorola MOTOROCKR S305 are a great, lower cost alternative that still sound terrific for the price. [$49.95 - TiPb store link]
• Jawbone JAMBOX aren’t a headset but they are a fantastic sounding speakerphone that pounds out music like nobody’s business. [$199.99 - Jawbone store link]

Amazing extras: Pogo Sketch Stylus

Steve Jobs might not think much of the stylus but for artists or just cold climates they can let you do everything from painting fantastic works of art to staying iPad-functional with your arctic mittens on. Pogo Sketch comes in pink or silver, is light weight, and has a handy clip to keep it from getting lost. [$14.95 - TiPb store link]

Also check out:

• Apple iPad Camera Kit lets you plug in an SD card from your digital camera, or your digital camera itself via USB and download your pics to your iPad. [$29.00 - Apple store link]
• HP e-All-in-One Printer is cheap and AirPrint compatible so you can take your digital iPad docs and photos and put them in ink and paper. [$129.99 - HP store link]

Your top accessories?

So there you have them, our top 10 best iPad accessories — cases, chargers, cables, headsets, keyboards, Bluetooth, and more! — to get you started. Be sure to check out our Picks of the Week and iPad Accessories Forum for more recommendations, and if we missed any of your favorites leave them in the comments below!

Sponsored by the TiPb iPad Accessory Store

Another interesting Apple patent has made its way out of Cupertino, this one explaining a process in which Apple would use new “knitting technology” to create a flexible material for use in iPads and other products. The material could be made from not only metal fibers but glass fibers or other types of materials as well.

This could potentially give products a bit more physical flexibility as well. Seeing as this material probably would not be as durable as aluminum, I don’t know if I can see Apple using this as the sole material to build future devices. I do see this as being useful for things such as insulation. Perhaps using some of this material could insulate vulnerable parts and protect from interference (antennagate anyone?).

Seeing as a knitting process would also allow Apple to control the texture and thickness of fibers, this type of technology could be used in products such as headphones as well. Anyone else have any theories on what Apple plans on using this new material process for?

PatentlyApple

Just get a new iPhone 4 or iPod touch and curious which are the best, most must-have accessories you need get first? Want to protect that beautiful glass display (and glass back!) or keep your battery charged on the go? Well read on for the TiPb store’s top 10 most recommended, most must-have iPhone accessories to get your started.

Light cases: Case-Mate Barely There

The Case-Mate Barely There is tough enough to protect your iPhone 4 from scratches or scrapes without adding a lot of bulk — just enough to keep your signal from dropping if you’re in a low-reception area. It comes in a wide variety of colors, including black, blue, pink, green, and chrome, and has wide cutouts so it works with pretty much any cable or connector. There’s also a cutout for the Apple logo on the back, if that’s the kind of thing that appeals to you. Includes a screen protector. [$22.95 - TiPb store link]

Also check out:

• Incipio Ultra Light Feature Case has even more colors and no logo cutout. [$23.95 - TiPb store link]
• Seidio Innocase II Case has pastel colors and 2-piece design. [$29.95 - TiPb store link]

Leather cases: Griffin Elan Passport

The Griffen Elan Passport is a wallet-style case that keeps your iPhone safe, secure, and in the same place as your cash and most-used credit cards. It comes in black with a platinum variant that includes a lanyard. Rich leather with tasteful metallic accents give it just the right touch of class and styling. It even includes a cutout for the camera so you can take snapshots and shoot video without removing your iPhone from the case. [$37.95 - TiPb store link]

• SPE SidePouch Case lets you clip your iPhone to your belt for holster-fast access. [$14.95 - TiPb store link]
• Nutshell Leather Belt Case blends high quality New Zealand cowhide with soft ultrasuede interior. [$59.95 - TiPb store link]

Protective cases: Otterbox Defender

The Otterbox Defender case is multilayer armor for your iPhone. A hard inner shell with clear plastic protection for the screen and Apple Logo is covered by a soft rubber outer shell that covers all the buttons and ports and keeps your iPhone safe from impact, abrasion, and incidental weather. It comes in black, blue, or red and includes a fast-action belt clip if you want to wear your iPhone at your side. It’s pretty only in the bulldog sense of the word but if you need to keep your iPhone safe, it’s also your go-to case. [$47.95 - TiPb store link]

Also check out:

• Overboard Pro-Sport Waterproof Case for total bath, pool, and beach protection for your iPhone. [$39.95 - iTunes link]
• Otterbox Commuter Case gives a good level of protection with less bulk. [$32.95 - TiPb store link]

Charging cables: SPE Retractable Sync and Charge Cable

The SPE Retractable Sync and Charge Cable is just like the standard iPhone cable — USB 2.0 on one end, 30-pin dock connector on the other — but can go from 24-inches fully extended down to just 4.5-inches to easily fit in your jacket, bag, purse, or pocket. You can plug it into your WIndows or Mac PC, or into an AC adapter to charge your iPhone without worrying about excess cable getting in your way. That makes it especially useful for road warriors, students, and frequent travelers. [$4.95 - TiPb store link]

Also check out:

• Apple USB AC Adapter with Sync Cable so you can plug into a wall as well into a PC. [$14.95 - TiPb store link]
• Griffin PowerJolt Plus not only lets you plug into your car, but passes through power to a second car adapter. [$27.95 - TiPb store link]

Battery Chargers: Ventev PowerCELL

Since iPhone doesn’t have a removable battery crafty accessory makers have made all sorts of different external battery packs for it, including Ventev PowerCELL. Rather than a case or dongle, the Ventev is a power pack with ports for not only iPhone 4′s dock cable but also mini and micro USB so you can charge Bluetooth headsets and even other devices. This makes it the perfect universal power solution for travelers. [$54.95 - TiPb store link]

• mophie juicepack plus is a slider-style case with battery pack built in. [$99.95 - Mophie link]
• Griffin TuneJuice2 lets you load up AAA batteries and transfer the charge. [$29.95 - TiPb store link]

Headsets: v-moda vibe duo In-Ear Stereo Headset

The v-moda vibe duo cram a huge audio punch into a tiny in-ear package. With amazing clarity, great noise-reduction, and a ton of drive they’re a great compromise for getting high-end quality at lower-end prices. They’ve also got a microphone so you can rock, pause and answer a call, then get right back to rocking. [$99.95 - TiPb store link]

Also check out:

• Apple In-Ear Headpohones with Remote and Mic are also great quality at a good price and perfect for Apple purists. [$79.00 - Apple store link]
• maximo iMetal Isolation Stereo Headset are for those who don’t want to spend a ton of cash on their headsets but still want a ton of music for their money. [$49.95 - TiPb store link]

Bluetooth headsets: Plantronics Voyager Pro

Many states and provinces now require hands-free driving options so if you have to wear a headset it might as well be one that looks like it comes straight from the bridge of the Galactica. Sure you can find smaller headsets but they typically have flimsy ear loops or no ear loops at all and might just fall out if you chew or move your head too quickly. This headset says “pro” and means it. [$84.95 - TiPb store link]

Also check out:

• Jawbone ICON, the latest in the line that sets the bar for headset style. [$79.95 - TiPb store link]
• Motorola H15 gives the best bang for Bluetooth buck with great sound at a great price [$49.95 - TiPb store link]

Stereo Bluetooth headset: Motorola MOTOROKR S9-HD

Motorola’s MOTOROKR S9-HD makes a great product better with better audio quality and full 3D immersion. Listen to all your favorite iPod music and then, with the tap of a button, answer a call, talk, hang up, and go back to jamming. If you like the behind-the-head style of headset, you won’t find better — or more booming! — than the S9-HD. [$84.95 - TiPb store link]

Also check out:

• Motorola MOTOROCKR S305 are a great, lower cost alternative that still sound terrific for the price. [$49.95 - TiPb store link]
• Jawbone JAMBOX aren’t a headset but they are a fantastic sounding speakerphone that pounds out music like nobody’s business. [$199.99 - Jawbone store link]

Car mounts: iGrip Custom Fit Mounts

Bluetooth is great for audio but it won’t hold your iPhone up so you can look at turn-by-turn directions or quickly access the other functions. That’s where iGrip’s Custom Fit series of car mounts come in, with options for power plug (cigarette lighter), suction cup, and vent mounting systems. [$19.95 and up - TiPb store link]

• TomTom car kit for iPhone, for those who use the TomTom app, provides enhanced GPS (there’s even a model for the iPod touch) [$99.95 - TomTom store link]
• iGrip Universal series is for those who want to fit more than just an iPhone [$19.95 and up - TiPb store link]

Amazing extras: Pogo Sketch Stylus

Steve Jobs might not think much of the stylus but for artists or just cold climates they can let you do everything from painting fantastic works of art to staying iPhone-functional with your arctic mittens on. Pogo Sketch comes in pink or silver, is light weight, and has a handy clip to keep it from getting lost. [$14.95 - TiPb store link]

Also check out:

• Freedom i-Connex Mini Keyboard is for those who need to do serious writing while staying seriously mobile. [$37.95 - TiPb store link link]
• Glif Tripod Mount and Stand takes your iPhone from being the best camera to one of the most stable ones as well. [$20.00 - Glif store link]

Your top accessories?

So there you have them, our top 10 best iPhone accessories — cases, chargers, cables, headsets, Bluetooth, and more! — to get you started. Be sure to check out our Picks of the Week and iPhone Accessories Forum for more recommendations, and if we missed any of your favorites leave them in the comments below!

Sponsored by the TiPb iPhone 4 Accessory Store

Gear4 recently announced that they would be making iPhone cases based on the tremendously popular iPhone and iPad game Angry Birds, and now it appears they’re starting to crop up in Apple stores. The cases are made of hard plastic and feature the red and yellow birds as well as the infamous green King Pig.

They’re currently selling for $24.99. Anyone buying?

{Gear4 via MacStories]

Should you go around with a naked iPhone or do you need a case? If you do need a case, what kind should you get? That’s a question we get asked all the time and it’s the topic for the third episode of our new, conversational video podcast, TiPb TV.

Rene and I discuss the pros and cons of bare, barely there, and full on armor for iPhone 4. We also show off several of our favorite cases including the Case Mate Chrome and Ivy, the Incipio Ultra Light, the Golla Bag, the Otterbox Defender, and more.

We take on the argument of case vs. case vs. naked, the cost and benefits of protecting against the bumps and scratches of avoiding bulk. So if you’ve been trying to decide which type of case is best for you, or if you’re daring to go bare with no case on at all, we’ll help you make the best choice possible.

Watch along and then leave us a comment and tell us — which case, if any, do you use?

Did you just get a new iPhone, iPod touch, iPad or even Apple TV on Black Friday? We’re guessing some of you took advantage of the once a year sale, or simply the excuse to be in the store, and picked up a special treat for yourself or a loved one. Either way, once you’re powered up and ready to go you might just be wondering what to do next? Don’t worry TiPb’s got your back!

• Get updated: Chances are your new iPhone or iPod touch came with iOS 4.1 and your iPad came with iOS 3.2 out of the box which means the minute you plug it into iTunes you’ll see there’s an iOS 4.2 software update just waiting for you. Download it and let iTunes do its thing. If you’re upgrading from a previous generation iPhone or iPod touch you can restore your data and apps once you’ve updated. If you’re setting up an iPad we don’t recommend using an iPhone or iPod backup as it can make things glitchy. Set it up as new now and save yourself some headaches later. (And hey, if you like tips like this, check out our tips section for more!)

• Get up to speed. If you’re brand new to iPhone or iPod touch take a moment and check out our iOS 4 walkthrough. It covers all the basics about multitasking, folders, etc. If you’re upgrading, check out our iOS 4.2 walkthrough for highlights of what’s new in the latest software. For new iPad owners, our iOS 4.2 for iPad walkthrough is a must-read. If you’re in a rush and just want to get started now, now, now, each walkthrough begins with an “everything you need to know in 10 minutes video” so click, watch, and get going!

• Get apps and games. There are hundreds of thousands of iPhone, iPod touch, and iPad apps in the iTunes App Store and more and more of them have now been updated to really show off things like the new Retina Display graphics, iPad screen size, and multitasking. We’re keeping track of them in our Apps section which is full of the latest news and reviews.

• Get accessories. Every Apple device looks the same and every Apple Store sells the same stuff. If you’re wanting something different — a splash of color, a bit of style, a new look, check out the TiPb iPhone + iPad accessory store, and regardless of where you shop, check out our accessory reviews for all the pros, cons, and ratings.

• Get talking. If you just want to talk about your new iPhone 4, iPod touch, iPad, or Apple TV and all those apps and accessories, or if you need help getting started (or to trouble-shoot bugs), or advice and recommendations, we have the best community on the web waiting for you (yes, you!): TiPb Forums. We’ve even got a Jailbreak Forum if you’re curious and want to more about taking your iPhone into expert mode.

Still not enough? Check out the other posts. We’ve got contests and give-aways, polls and award votes, bug fixes and how tos, and much, much more. Bookmark TiPb now and come back often, we want to hear from you!