When it comes to iPad 2 cases, everyone has an opinion on which type is best — hard, soft, waterproof, leather, or skin case

There are advantages and disadvantages to all styles of iPad 2 case. Do you value form or function? Style or security? Gloss or grip? Protection or low-profile? A lot will depend on what you do with your iPad. A construction site has different iPad case requirements than a vacation on the lake or a trip to a trade show. And now that all the basics have been covered — how many little black iPad cases can one girl or guy own? — manufacturers are getting more creative with materials and molding. iPad cases can now be about fashion and fun as well. Cool colors, terrific textures, and niche needs are all being covered now. And the very best iPad 2 cases bring all of that together, and more.

iPad 2 hard case: Otterbox Defender

People who love iPad cases love Otterbox. It’s a perennial favorite. With triple layer protection, it’s the ultimate iPad case for those who need their iPads ruggedized for work, travel, or just for kids. It even comes with a shield-like front cover that can double as a typing or movie-watching stand.

• $59.95 – iMore store link

iPad 2 soft case: Hive Honeycomb dermaSHOT Silicone

Incipio has been experimenting with new and unusual textures in their iPad 2 cases lately, and with the Incipio Hive Honeycomb dermaSHOT Silicone it’s really paid off. They’ve added extra grip to both sides of the Hive Honeycomb to make it more comfortable to hold onto while gaming, and it manages to avoid being both slippery or tacky at the same time.

• $29.95 – iMore store link

iPad 2 waterproof cases: Overboard

Until Lifeproof comes out with an iPad 2 case, Overboard is my go-to companion for everything from baths to beaches. The Overboard not only has room for your iPad 2, but you can keep some cash or credit cards in there if you’re traveling, and if you drop it in water, it’ll even float.

• $44.95 – iMore store link

iPad 2 keyboard cases: ZAGGfolio

The ZAGGfolio is an iPad 2 case that packs in a keyboard and is best suited for road warriors, or anyone who needs to pound out some serious productivity on the go. When not in use, it protects your iPad from harm, but quickly folds out into full on work mode.

• $99.99 – ZAGG link

iPad 2 leather cases: Pad & Quill Contega

Pad & Quill’s Contega case for iPad 2 takes the now familiar hipster moleskin style to a new level, incorporating a hidden pocket and cover that can fold up into a stand. It’s lacquered Baltic Birch, finely bonded Italian leather, expertly handcrafted for your iPad 2.

• $109.99 – Amazon store link

iPad 2 luxury cases: White Diamonds

Okay, the White Diamond iPad cases aren’t all about protection — they’re about stunning good looks. With amazing artwork and glittering Swarovski crystals, these cases are only for those who want to deck out their iPad 2 with serious bling.

• Variable – White Diamonds link

iPad 2 film cases: BodyGuardz

If you want a lot of scratch protection with as little bulk as possible, BodyGuardz for iPad 2 has you covered. Literally. We’ve taken nails, stones, and children to it and almost a year later, BodyGuardz have kept our iPad 2s sensationally scratch free. BodyGuardz won’t stop drops or bumps, but it will kill scratches dead.

• $19.95 – iMore Store link

The BodyGuardz Armor Carbon Fiber for iPad 2 is a skin that sticks to the aluminum black to give some texture and protect from scrapes and abrasions. They’re not the same as the thin, clear BodyGuardz films we’ve shown you how to apply before, and are actually even easier to apply. (Check out the video below to see just how easy.)

Now that I’ve been using it for a week, how do I like it? Am I keeping it? Read on to find out!

Allow me to quote myself from my previous review on the BodyGuardz Armor for iPhone 4:

First things first. BodyGuardz Armor aren’t really made out of carbon fiber. (Shocking!) So they won’t stop a bullet (and no, they wouldn’t actually let me test that! Grrrr!) They’re printed to look like carbon fiber, however, so if you want protection and style and don’t actually need real fibers made from carbon, this could be the skin for you.

When it comes to looks, I think BodyGuardz is even hotter on iPad 2 than on iPhone. The large surface really makes the texture stand out, especially as light hits the curved back. You still can’t see the Apple logo under the dark gray sticker, but that’s only going to be a deal breaker for the biggest Apple fans.

And yes, I have a pink SmartCover so once again, best there is, best there was, and best there ever will be color combination! (For those who asked, the anti-glare screen protector doesn’t interfere with the SmartCover magnets at all. It works great!)

With my iPhone, I really liked the grip of the BodyGuardz Armor since the glass would often slip and slide off chairs and sofas. The same applied to the iPad 2. I can put it down on the armrest of my movie chair, get myself some more popcorn, and not have to worry about it taking a dive to the floor. Apple’s backs look great, but they give me a heart attack at times. With the Armor, I feel much safer.

Unlike the iPhone version, there are no side stickers… because iPad 2 has almost no sides. I didn’t like the sides on my iPhone and am not using them any more, so this is fine for me.

Bottom line, I’m liking it and still using it. Great protection, great grip, and great looks, all with next to no added bulk or weight. Check out the BodyGuardz Armor Carbon Fiber for iPad 2, available from the TiPb iPhone 4 Accessory Store.

Pros

• Looks great
• Increases grip
• Almost no added bulk

Cons

• Edges of sticker can get caught
• No real protection against impact

The BodyGuardz Armor Carbon Fiber for iPad 2 is a skin that sticks to the aluminum black to give some texture and protect from scrapes and abrasions. They’re not the same as the thin, clear BodyGuardz films we’ve shown you how to apply before, and are actually even easier to apply.

The BodyGuardz Carbon Fiber for iPad 2 is available from the TiPb iPad 2 Accessory Store. Check out the video above and follow on for the how-to after the break!

Here’s how I apply the BodyGuardz Armor Carbon Fiber for iPad 2

1. Clean my iPad 2 screen thoroughly (I use iKlenz)
2. Peel off the front sticker carefully and lightly line it up on the front of my iPad 2.
3. Place the edge down, keeping a close eye on the alignment.
4. Push evenly and steadily out from the edge — I use a ruler to help
5. Check alignment and peel back and reposition as/if needed.
6. Smooth down to secure it in place.
7. Leave the outer layer on so I don’t damage the front while applying the back
8. Flip my iPad over
9. Clean my iPad 2 back the same way I did the front. I don’t worry about dust as much because you can’t see through the sticker on the back, but I want the best adhesion possible.
10. Peel off the back sticker carefully and again line it up. I use the camera and other cut outs to help guide me.
11. Same as above, place down and push out with the ruler when I’m sure it’s in the right place.
12. Smooth down the edges.
13. Flip it back over and remove the top layer from the screen protector.
14. That’s it!

I’ll be testing BodyGuardz Armor out for durability and report back in a review. If you have any tips for applying them, or any questions about them, let me know in comments.

The BodyGuardz Armor Carbon Fiber for iPhone 4 is a skin that sticks to the glass black and stainless steel antenna to change up the look and protect from scrapes and abrasions. They’re not the same as the thin, clear BodyGuardz films we’ve shown you how to apply before, and are actually even easier to apply. (Check out the video below to see just how easy.)

Now that I’ve been using them for 10 days, how are they holding up? Did they stay on or did I go running back to my favorite case? Read on to find out!

First things first. BodyGuardz Armor aren’t really made out of carbon fiber. (Shocking!) So they won’t stop a bullet (and no, they wouldn’t actually let me test that! Grrrr!) They’re printed to look like carbon fiber, however, so if you want protection and style and don’t actually need real fibers made from carbon, this could be the skin for you.

Overall I really like the look of the BodyGuardz Armor. A lot. The black on dark gray colors and woven texture have a sweet, apocalyptic vibe to them and make a really nice change of pace from the glass Apple look. Combine it with a pink bumper and it looks Hitman hot, I kid you not! (And no, you can’t see the logo through the skin so if you’re a hardcore Apple lover, you might want to steer clear.)

There’s also some function to the BodyGuardz Armor form — the texture is kind of grippy. It’s much easier to hold onto than a naked iPhone. It may not sound like much but if you’re precious iPhone ever slipped out of you hand, or off a chair or table, you know what a difference a little drag coefficient can make!

Since it’s just a sticker, the BodyGuardz Armor has almost zero profile, which is great for slipping into and out of pockets and purses alike.

So am I still using it? Mostly. I ended up taking off the side stickers but keeping the back sticker on. I prefer the feeling of the stainless steel antenna to the sticker cut outs, but I really like the look and protection it offers the glass back of my iPhone 4. I might go back to the security of a case eventually, but for right now I’m absolutely loving the BodyGuardz Armor. (Note: It’s not so thick that you couldn’t use it with some of the looser pouch cases if you wanted added protection when traveling or for just keeping it in your bag.)

So bottom line, if you need protection but want the minimum bulk possible, check out theBodyGuardz Armor Carbon Fiber for iPhone 4, available from the TiPb iPhone 4 Accessory Store.

Pros

• Looks really good
• Protects both back and sides from scratches
• Almost no added bulk

Cons

• Side stickers can feel a bit annoying
• No real protection against impact

The BodyGuardz Armor Carbon Fiber for iPhone 4 is a skin that sticks to the glass black and stainless steel antenna to change up the look and protect from scrapes and abrasions. They’re not the same as the thin, clear BodyGuardz films we’ve shown you how to apply before, and are actually even easier to apply.

The BodyGuardz Carbon Fiber for iPhone 4 is available from the TiPb iPhone 4 Accessory Store. Check out the video above and follow on for the how-to after the break!

Here’s how I apply the BodyGuardz Armor Carbon Fiber for iPhone 4

1. Clean my iPhone 4 screen thoroughly (I use iKlenz)
2. Peel off the back sticker carefully and lightly line it up on the iPhone.
3. Place the edge down, keeping a close eye on the alignment.
4. Push evenly and steadily out from the edge — I use a card to help
5. Check alignment and peel back and reposition as/if needed.
6. Smooth down to secure it in place.

I’ll be testing BodyGuardz Armor out for durability and report back in a review. If you have any tips for applying them, or any questions about them, let me know in comments.

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

You know we love BodyGuardz here at TiPb, and the great folks at NLU love the TiPb nation as well — so much so they’re letting us give away three (3) of their brand new BodyGuardz Dry Apply for iPhone 4!

Specially designed to maintain optical clarity and durability without interfering with touch-screen functionality, BodyGuardz Dry Apply is essential for the iPhone 4, which features a fresh, flatter design, and a glass back, increasing the need for full-body protection that doesn’t mask its sleek look. The patent-pending application process features the use of and adhesive that uses an anti-microbial mold inhibitor and anti-corrosion compound that is mixed directly into the product formula, providing easy-to-apply, instantly clear, scratch-proof device protection. As with all BodyGuardz products, BodyGuardz Dry Apply are made from the highest quality material

Want a BodyGuardz Dry Apply for your iPhone — or brand new Verizon iPhone? Just leave a comment below and tell us what you most want to protect your iPhone from! (Make sure you leave a valid email address, we won’t make it public but we will use it to contact you if you get one of the give aways!)

[BodyGuardz]

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]

If you had to put your precious iPad through the ultimate scratch test, which protective film covering would give it the best chance for survival — the BodyGuardz or the InvisibleSHIELD? They’re both ultra-thin, ultra-durable plastic skins, but which is the most durable? That’s the challenge they gave me for the latest episode of TiPb’s Amazing Case, our hardcore, case vs case tests of strength, durability, and performance.

We figure if either — or both — of these skins could survive being ground against rocks, etched with metal, and — quite frankly — screwed, then they can survive pretty much whatever normal, day-to-day use throws at them.

Follow on after the jump for the details, and the give-away!

BodyGuardz Protective Skin for iPad

The BodyGuardz is nice and clear but a little less tacky. It looks great though and doesn’t “orange peel” as much in my experience. This version has front and back covers and a series of small strips to cover the sides. It’s trickier to put all of that on, though, so please take a look at my video on how-to install the BodyGuardz.

InvisibleSHIELD Protective Skin for iPad

The InvisibleSHIELD is not as glossy but also not as slippery. It feels a little safer to grip, though it also seems more likely to “orange peel” (have slight bumps in places). This version covers the front and the back of your iPad but not the side. It’s also a little challenging to put on, but I’ve done a video how-to for InvisibleSHIELD installation as well, so check it out.

Fight! (and give-away)

So which protective skin was the most protective? No spoilers! You have to watch the video above for the results of our BodyGuardz vs InvisibleSHIELD ultimate iPad scratch test.

When you’re done leave me a reply in the comments below and tell me which one you’d rather have protecting your iPad — BodyGuardz or InvisibleSHIELD — and what you most want it to protect you from. I admit it, those rocks sent my heart racing (I was scared I’d gone too far!), what makes you most afraid of scratching your iPad, what puts you in panic mode?

We have a couple of each to give away, so make sure you leave a valid email address so we can contact you if you win. (US mailing address required for delivery).

Let’s go!

Here I am showing how to apply a BodyGuardz screen protector to your iPad. Why? I don’t know about you but for me my iPad screen is 9.7 inches of beautiful, colorful joy and the thought of scratching it fills me with equal parts apprehension and terror. So, in the better safe than sorry department, here’s what I did:

1. Clean my iPad screen thoroughly (I use iKlenz)
2. Apply the liquid to my fingers
3. Peel off the screen film and apply liquid to the back
4. Place the skin carefully on my iPad
5. Squeegee out excess liquid, carefully blotting to keep it away from water sensors
6. Press out any remaining bubbles

I use a big squeegee for the initial pass, the supplied smaller one for the details. I also made sure to put my iPad on a non-slip mat first so I don’t have to chase it around the table. (Basically what I did for the iPhone screen protector how-to, a little more conservative than Dieter’s approach).

We’ll be testing BodyGuardz out for durability in the future, and I’ll be looking at other skins soon. If you have any tips for applying them, or any questions about them, let me know in comments.

If you want to pick up a BodyGuardz screen protector for iPad, check out the TiPb iPad accessory store.

I have just applied the BodyGuardz Protective Skin onto my iPhone 4 ($24.95 in the TiPb iPhone store) and I put at ease about not getting any more scratches on my iPhone 4.

Application can be a little daunting, but if you take a gander at the video above we’ll walk you through the steps. I find the trick is to not be shy about using the supplied spray so you can more easily adjust the screen protector and squeeze out those bubbles. It’s also worth noting that for at least a day after you apply it and sometimes a few days, your iPhone 4 is going to look a little weird – but having used these products for many years I know that the bubbles and ‘fog’ goes away completely.

After the break, a few more thoughts, a small gallery of photos, and a video showing how to apply the protective skin.

Once on, the iPhone isn’t any thicker, of course, and the glass on both the front and back are completely protected from scratches. The rear-skin is open so as not to occlude the camera lens, but that tiny extra thickness also means the lens isn’t resting on a table when you set it down, which I also like.

This particular skin has a glossy rather than a matted finish, but it also adds just a bit of extra grip to the sides and back, which I appreciate. I’ll note too that my iPhone definitely suffers from a fairly serious “Hold Different” Death Grip signal issue and the BodyGuards doesn’t attenuate it. If you’re looking to fix that, you’ll want to get an iPhone 4 case instead of (or in addition to) the BodyGuardz

So while application is a hassle (they include two full skins in the box), once you have it on your iPhone the knowledge that it’s protected from keys, grit, and other causes of scratches is indeed a balm.

You can get BodyGuardz Protective Skin for iPhone 4 from the TiPb iPhone 4 accessory store.

Update: Save 10% on all iPhone and iPad accessories — including BodyGuardz for iPhone 4 — with coupon code TiPb4 until Friday, July 9, 2010! [Sponsored]

NLU Privacy ScreenGuardz [$19.99 - TiPb Store link] come from the same folks who make BodyGuardz and represents the first — to my knowledge — 4-way privacy screen for the iPhone 3G and iPhone 3GS.

I had the chance to see the ScreenGuardz at CES in January, and was able to test it out throughout Macworld 2010, and it works well. (And yes, they had a picture up for an iPad screen already!)

4-way refers to both vertical and horizontal privacy, meaning that when your iPhone is in portrait or landscape mode, the field of view is obscured to the degree that while you can still see it, anyone sitting next to you trying to spy on you can’t. It looks either mostly or completely black to them, depending on the viewing angle.

In terms of drawback, while the view from the front remains clear it does look slightly darker (think Avatar 3D glasses) so you may want to pump up your brightness slightly to compensate. Multitouch remained fine for me, though it did take a second to adjust to the different “feel” of the privacy screen as opposed to bare glass.

Also, if you want to let the person next to you see your iPhone — to watch a movie or help with Maps directions, for example — you’re out of luck. There’s no such thing as selective privacy!

Application is simple and the case is thin, though you’ll feel a slight ridge around the Home button cutout.

If you have sensitive information on your iPhone, or just don’t appreciate snoops on the plane, train, or bus (or the desk next to you!) then it’s definitely something to check out.

For more, check out the video from Macworld 2010, after the break, where NLU installs a ScreenGuardz on my iPhone (and yes, it stopped Leanna from peeking over my shoulder completely!

NLU Products, makers of BodyGuardz, were gracious enough to take some time out at CES 2010 and show TiPb their four-way ScreenGuardz Privacy film for iPhone. Four-way means it won’t just shield your iPhone from prying eyes in portrait mode, but horizontal as well. Buh-bye over-the-shoulder airplane movie snooper!

Check out the video, after the break!

What’s In The Box?

Upon opening the BodyGuardz package, the inside cover contains detailed instructions and hints for installation of the scratch-proof transparent film. There is also a helpful tip referring you to their web site (bodyguardz.com) for How to install instruction videos. A pocket on the inside of the front jacket contains two (2) complete BodyGuardz transparent film sets and installation diagram.

On the right side of the package is a spray “tube” of application solution (harmless water and baby shampoo) and a credit card-like “squeegee” applicator. You definitely want all of these tools to do the job right.

Installation and Performance

Installing the BodyGuardz transparent film may look very intimidating at first. I’ve used similar products on other devices and had them “professionally” installed at mall kiosks. For purposes of this review, I did this installation all by my lonesome, and I have to say, it wasn’t as difficult as I thought. The instructions are pretty straight-forward and the videos on the BodyGuardz web site are helpful.

The secret is using enough of the solution to make your job easy. Make sure you have solution on your fingers at all times – it’s a safeguard against your fingers sticking to the film. You also want to be sure to handle the outside of the film to avoid leaving fingerprints on the tacky side that will apply to your iPhone. Just slowly remove the film from it’s backing, spraying the sticky side with solution as you go, and then apply the pieces of film to the appropriate locations on your iPhone. The screen protector is the easiest, then it gets a little more tricky as you apply the film to the rounded corners of your iPhone.

If you use enough solution, I found that installation was much easier because the film will “float” a little on the surface areas of your iPhone and allow you to move them more easily into position. As the water starts to dry, the film gets more tacky and sticks in place better. This is particularly helpful to know when installing around the corners. As the film gets more tacky as it dries, just press and hold the corners in place until they stick on their own.

Once the film is applied, there will likely be tons of bubbles where moisture is trapped between the film and your iPhone. Don’t let this be a big worry. Just use the squeegee to smooth out the bubbles, carefully pushing them to the edges where most of the moisture can escape. It’s recommended that you allow your iPhone to sit overnight without being placed in a case or pocket – you need to allow the film enough time to “cure” so it adheres to your iPhone. Once in place and dry, the film will stay put and won’t come off. You can peel it off later without leaving any residue if you want, but until that time, the BodyGuardz will stay on your iPhone and protect it from scratches and scrapes.

The nice thing about using the BodyGuardz transparent film to protect your iPhone is that it adds minimal bulk, it shows off the sleek design and color of your iPhone, and it does a fantastic job of protecting against scratches and scrapes. It is also a good idea to apply BodyGuardz before using another kind of case. I’ve learned through sad experience that some cases, although designed to protect your iPhone, can cause scratches over time as dirt and dust get trapped between the case and your iPhone. There are some downsides to using BodyGuardz. First, it adds just enough bulk to your iPhone that some form-fitting cases, particularly the hard cases, may not fit properly. Second, over time the film can get dirty and start to peel around the edges if you aren’t careful. Sometimes this can be remedied if you keep it clean and reapply the corners with a little moisture and curing. Finally, it offers no protection from harmful impacts. Also, it may be a little bit on the pricey side at $24.95. But, that price does include two (2) sets of BodyGuardz.

Conclusion

The BodyGuardz scratch-proof transparent film is an excellent way to protect your iPhone and still give it that “naked” look. It’s moderately easy to apply and stays put once everything dries. It does a fabulous job protecting your iPhone from scratches and scrapes, but is not recommended for protection in the event of accidental (or intentional) drops to the ground. It may create a problem if you want to use a hard form-fitting case. Personally, I like it enough that it’s still on my iPhone and will stay there as long as I have the phone. You can get BodyGuardz here in the TiPb Store for $24.95.

Pros

• Adds minimal bulk
• Clear film to show off your iPhone
• Moderately easy at-home installation
• Protects against scratches and scrapes

Cons

• Adds enough bulk that hard form-fitting cases may not fit properly
• Offers no protection for damaging impacts
• Can start peeling off on the corners over time; wear and tear
• A little pricey at $24.95

TiPb Rating:

Besides Google (much more on that tomorrow, stay tuned!), there weren’t a lot of “iPhone Web Apps” booths. Actually, none that I can remember. What there are a ton of at Macworld are accessories booths. Clearly the accessory market for the iPhone is ramping up quickly and may even near iPod accessory market status sometime soon.

…But it’s not there yet. Case in point, I saw probably a dozen different iPod speaker docks — all of which were “compatible” with the iPhone in flight mode only. Apple is requiring (and rightfully so, I suppose) that accessory makers submit their accessories for their seal of approval, iPhone-wise, so that the dreaded GSM-interference issue is taken care of. I personally wish Apple had managed to handle that on the device rather than forcing companies trying to interact with the Dock connector to re-make their products, but c’est la vie.

Otherwise, the thing to see, iPhone-wise, is cases. There are more skin cases here than you could shake a stick at, but there are some other gems as well. After the break, our three favorite cases at Macworld 2008.

Bodyguardz

Best case of the show has to go to Bodyguardz. Their booth was small, but it was absolutely mobbed. Probably because they were offering a Macworld-only special. Bodyguardz are simple, transparent films pre-cut to fit your iPhone. There are others like them, of course, but these seem quite a bit better than the competition. iLounge agrees, they named Bodyguardz the best of ’07.

First off, each package comes with two sets of films for your iPhone, in case you muck up the application or if you want to replace your films later. They also come with a decent set of instructions, the application solution spray bottle, and a squeegee to apply the film.

The iPhone may be durable, but it’s not invincible. The Bodyguardz makes your iPhone absolutely key-proof without adding any bulk at all. It also is a sight less slippery than the iPhone itself, to boot.

…and yep, the Phone different store sells ‘em for $24.95.

Speck

When I die, it’s highly likely that I’ll want to be buried with my Timbuk2 Commute Messenger Bag. The thing is attached to my shoulder pretty much any time I’m standing up. So when I was perusing the gobs of iPhone cases at Macworld, I was keeping a special eye out for something I could attach to the shoulder strap of my messenger bag. Speck came to my rescue – their TransPort get the #2 in our Best-Of-Macworld.

They announced the TransPort iPhone case at Macworld. Awkward capitalization aside, it’s a great case. It’s designed to fit on any shoulder strap by way of large velcro flaps. The iPhone itself slides into a hard plastic holder that firmly keeps the iPhone in place, facing out.

The case also has a removable front-flap that flips down to use the iPhone but generally is meant to protect it from the dangers of urban life. Basically it’s the perfect bike-rider’s iPhone case.

The downside to the case is that it’s not very useful away from a messenger bag, but that didn’t really bug me too much — as I said, my bag is always so close at hand that it’s not a big problem for me.

The TransPort case isn’t available for purchase yet and Speck couldn’t comment on pricing.

Seidio

Rounding out our Best of Macworld is Seidio’s Inno.Case — Speck may randomly capitalize letters inside words, but Seidio one-ups them by adding a period inside words. Take that!

Ahem. The Innocase is a very neat little plastic hard case for the iPhone and the iPod Touch. I like it because it features the ever-popular “rubberized soft touch” feel that makes it very grippable. The Innocase adds very little bulk to the iPhone, but enough that it wouldn’t fit in the standard iPhone dock. Seidio handily solves that problem by making the portion on the bottom snap off, as you can see in the first picture below.

Really, though, what caught my eye were the colors – the red and the blue versions are very slick. You can’t tell from the pictures below, but the red and blue are a little “metallic” and have the sort of “depth and complexity” of color that make me wish I could actually write about color intelligently. Kudos, Seidio.

The Innocase is also not available yet, but should be in February.