More reports are springing up that the next generation iPhone 5 will feature a thinner, tapered hardware design based off images of 3rd party silicone cases. Now this is not the first time we've come across rumors of what the new hardware will look like. It all started as early as April when we heard about a completely new design and then again earlier this month we heard similar reports of a thinner and lighter device.

However, iPhone 5 -- assuming that's what Apple calls it -- from what TiPb has been hearing for a few months now, from very reliable sources, the next generation of iPhone hardware will look very, very close to the current iPhone 4 design. It will not take on the design of the iPhone 3GS or iPod touch. It will not be moving backwards.

Now Apple often does work on more than one concept, a more audacious design that changes a lot (like iPhone 3GS to iPhone 4) and a more conservative model if the audacious one doesn't work out (like iPhone 3G to iPhone 3GS), so it's possible the different rumors are based on leaks from different concepts.

It's also possible the 3rd party cases appearing with this shape are harbingers of iPhone nano concepts instead, or simply next generation iPod touch cases (with added iPad-style mute switch).

Bottom line is do not get your hopes up for a newly redesigned iPhone 5. Expect a better camera along with the dual core A5 chip with the same externals. That way, at worst, you won't be disappointed, and at best, you'll be surprised.

[9to5Mac]

The DLO SlimCase for iPhone 3G is available from The iPhone Blog Store for $39.95. If you are looking for a case that allows you to easily remove your iPhone while still keeping it secure when in the case, this one might be for you!. Let’s see how it measures up after the break!

Design

The DLO SlimCase comes with the case and wrist strap. There is a nice leather finish on the outside of the case and a soft, non-scratch material on the inside. This material allows the iPhone to slide into the case smoothly, yet holds it in place securely as well. The included wrist strap attaches at the top of the case and does not impede placing the iPhone in or out of the case.

Daily Use

When I first looked at this case I was perplexed as to why the whole top half of it was open. As you can see in the pictures, there is no flap or clip to keep the iPhone from falling out! However, after spending some time with the case, I feel this design was done for three reasons; 1) easy access to remove the phone as needed for docking, etc. 2) to keep the form factor compact 3) complete and unobscured access to the iPhone's external buttons.

The DLO SlimCase is durable and stylish. The removable wrist strap comes in helpful too. The smooth leather case allows it to easily slip in your pocket and I feel it is protected. The only concern I have is if the case is dropped. I feel fairly confident that the iPhone will stay in the case, but the issue is the top corners; they are unprotected and if it takes the brunt of a fall, could harm the iPhone's shell.

Using this case daily, I did not encounter any problems. It didn't get stuck in my jeans pocket and it held up well under the daily abuse a case can get. I kept the wrist strap attached, but found that the case gave the iPhone sufficient grip so I did not use it. The Big question I know is on your mind: with a gaping opening at the top of the case, did the iPhone stay in securely? The answer is yes. The iPhone does fit securely, I had no issues with it coming loose.

Conclusion

This iPhone case is a double-edged sword; easily removable and slim, yet a compromise on the top corners if dropped. I am giving this case a 3 instead of a 4 because I have concerns if I were to drop the case, would the top corners be protected? If this is not a concern for you, then this is a great case that looks good, has a nice finish and allows you to remove the iPhone easily for docking or other activities.

Pros:

• Nice leather finish
• Easily remove the iPhone as needed
• Case is compact
• Openings for accessing everything you need on your phone
• Wrist strap

Cons:

• Top corners are exposed
• Not dockable

TiPb’s Rating: