Accessorise your iPhone camera

September 18, 2011

Although we are waiting with baited breath for the release of the iPhone 5 (expected release is October), technological accessories for the current iPhone 4 continue to advance. New camera accessories, available now, can turn your iPhone from a convenient pocket camera to a camera that resembles more impressive professional equipment. With in excess of 125 million iPhone owners there is a huge and growing market for camera accessories and the researcher NPD group estimate the revenue for such accessories is £250 million.

Products to offer you stablity, memory, & a variety of shots

Kogeto founder Jeff Glasse is about to release his Dot accessory which slips over the iPhone 4 to provide a cool 360-degree view of the video you are shooting. Kogeto’s Dot costs around £45  and the manufacturers recommend you put your iPhone with the Dot on a table at a party to capture everything in a different and more exciting way. Glasse is quoted in USA Today : “People love their iPhone. It’s the digital swiss Army knife of our time. I can chart my boat from the iPhone, use it for GPS in the car, as a book reader …. And for many people, it’s now their primary camera.”

Kogeto is not alone in courting iPhone users. Photojojo, a photo accessory site, offers a DSLR connector to hook lenses from your digital SLR directly to the iPhone – approximate cost is £180. Photojojo’s iPhone SLR Mount allows you to attach Canon or Nikon lenses over your iPhone for moody shots that throw the background out of focus or dramatically zoom in on the action. However, once it’s attached to your iPhone, everything looks upside-down. To fix this, you will need to download the £1.50 Almost DSLR app.

Then Owle’s Bubo steadicam setup – approx £120 can ensure your images are steadier and this has tools that attach a wide angle lens. The Bubo camera mount fits over the iPhone, giving you a good grip on all sides of the camera for a steadier, more stable image, and incorporates a wide-angle attachment that goes over your camera for a wider view.

Have you had problems taking shots or videos because your memory card is full? ZoomIt is a memory card connector that can solve your problem of a full iPhone memory card and no time to delete. The ZoomIt lets you slip its attachment into the iPhone’s 30-pin connector adding an SD memory card to boost iPhone memory immediately.

Best accessories for you

So how can you decide which accessory is best for your needs? Terry White, co-author of The iPhone Book, often lectures on photograhy and confirms that the iPhone is always his camera of choice when on the road. White believes your best choices are the steadying camera accessories such as the Zgrip iPhone Pro or the Point N Shoot grip which sits the iPhone horizontally across a pistol grip to provide steadier shooting. White believes that having too many accessories added to your iPhone will make it cumbersome and heavy and negate the advantage of having a light camera that fits snugly into your pocket. He confirms that the release of the iPhone 4 in 2010 upped the game as it offered users a sharper camera than previous versions, with a 5-megapixel sensor (up from 3 megapixels). However, White concludes that the iPhone 5 will need to step up and offer an 8-megapixel sensor to compete with the Android cameras currently in the market.

 

 

 

New aluminum iPhone cases improve damage protection

August 22, 2011

Inventive Metals Introduces Solid Aluminum iPhone Cases

With nearly 50 million iPhones sold to date, there are hundreds, perhaps even thousands, of  iPhone cases that have been created. However, we think the latest solid aluminum cases have raised the bar for safety and elegence combined.

Inventive Metals a US company recenntly announced a line of iPhone cases constructed from solid aluminum. These durable cases are being sold in six different powder-coated finishes with styles ranging from elegant to wacky; they are specifically designed to protect the iPhone 4 and iPhone 3G/GS models.

While inside the case, the iPhone is completely functional with easy access provided to the screen, all buttons, speaker, microphone, and headphone jack. Most importantly, the cases do not interfere with mobile phone reception.

Inventive Metal’s  product manager explains that the light aluminum case provide the iPhone with great drop protection; however, enclosing a phone in a metal jacket while maintaining its technical flexibility was  extremely challenging.

“Most of our competitors who have tried this really haven’t put enough engineering into the signal-loss problem. We’ve studied this extensively and have tested and refined many prototypes before we were satisfied that our cases would out-perform our competitors and provide a good user-experience to our customers. Our iPhone cases are unmatched in terms of durability and signal strength.”

Inventive Metal’s iPhone cases can be purchased online at inventive metals.com and cost approximately $69 each.

There are already a limited number of aluminum and leather cases suitable for iPhone 4 and 3G for sale from amazon.co.uk. (visit the Amazon UK website) selling from £25. However, the latest offer from Inventive Metals would appear to offer a marked improvement re design and signal clarity.For a real alternative, try our sponsored link on your right, Ion’s Stealth Predator, for a luxury iPhone case designed only for iPhone 4. The Predator Zero uniquely built from carbon fibre promises not only zero signal interruption but also zero flashlight interference – it is an exquisite accessory selling at $69.99.

Guide to buying best iPhone battery cases

April 15, 2011


The battery case shown above is our best choice – Mophie Juice Pack Air – for iPhone 4 – at £70.

Mili Power Spring Case for iPhone 3G/3GS – £43

Read more: http://www.techradar.com

New headset for iPhones

February 17, 2011

Steelseries introduce a new headset for the iPod, iPhone and iPad.

The Award-Winning Siberia Neckband Headset is Now Available in a Refreshed Design for Music, Mobile, and Gaming

SteelSeries, the leading manufacturer of premium audio peripherals and accessories, today is introducing the award-winning and unique design of the SteelSeries Siberia Neckband headset to music lovers and mobile gamers to use with their iPod, iPhone and iPad. This headset version has been designed to fully support iPod, iPhone and iPad devices, which features a single 3.5mm jack for combined audio and voice and an inline remote that powers audio and call controls. The Neckband features thick, cloth covered foam earcups, an optimized soundscape, and a retractable microphone system to be used while answering calls or stored in the left earcup while just listening to music.

“We believe that gamers are some of the most demanding consumers and as competitors they require well designed peripherals that reproduce high-quality sound and clear voice communication, which ultimately can mean the difference between a tournament prize purse and going home empty handed,” said Bruce Hawver, SteelSeries CEO. “We knew that if our audio products can meet and exceed expectations for gamers, that our designs would also be appealing to a broader music and entertainment audience. Now iPod, iPhone and iPad users who want an audio solution for entertainment on their mobile device have a new, high-quality headset option.”

Featured throughout international music videos, the Siberia Neckband is considered one of SteelSeries’ most unique designs. The headset rests behind the head on the user’s neck while providing excellent sound reproduction that has been fine-tuned with the help of professional musicians, DJ’s and audiophiles. It can be adjusted to fit all head sizes through its retracting neckband, while the unidirectional, retractable microphone can be stored in the left earcup and can be easily pulled out when answering calls. Its optimized soundscape emphasizes crisp highs, and deep balanced bass levels for music and movies.

The SteelSeries Siberia Neckband is $79.99 / €79.99 MSRP. Details regarding product availability, retail locations, and new additions to this music and mobile audio line-up will be announced soon. Be sure to check out SteelSeries’ Facebook and Twitter pages to gain access to these details and updates first.

Best iPhone cases

October 23, 2010

There are dozens of bumpers , cases and wallets available online. We are all aware that the iPhone glass panels need to be treated with care and respect as dropping and damaging your iPhone is not a hardware failure. Square Trade have investigated and recorded the number of iPhone 3GS broken glass claims comparing this number to the iPhone 4 claims and found no real difference in the 2 models when you take into account that you have double the risk with an iPhone 4 as it has 2 glass panels. Square Trade’s suggest “fewer than 0.5 per cent of iPhone 4 owners have reported a non-accidental claim” which strongly denies some media claims that iPhone 4 glass is less reliable than iPhone 3GS.

However, the iPhone 4, having a glass back as well as a glass front, means it does have a lower coefficient of friction than the iPhone 3GS. This means it takes less force for your iPhone 4 to slip around and fall to the ground. The two-glass design makes an accident more likely – so protecting with a case and careful handling make good sense. With Apples free bumper offer now ended you might be interested in our choice of the best iPhone cases. The first 3 cases are designed for iPhone 3G & 3GS models from Proporta accessories and the last 3 cases are for iPhone 4 and can be purchased online – visit the o2 website.

Proporta Shine

As pictured below (prices around £25), the Shine is a flip-open case made out of glossy patent leather, and available in black, red or blue. Inside the case there’s a mirror so that you can check your visage before that important business meeting or hot date. You can select a number of different print linings for the inside of the case, including zebra skin or floral patterns.

We think this case is just as desirable as the device it’s housing. The new Shine Case for your Apple iPhone 3G from Proporta has a sleek high gloss patent leather exterior, fits like a glove and looks as stylish; while the magnetic closure system keeps your iPhone 3G protected and out of harm’s way. And for a subtle twist, the mirror is framed with a funky, soft feel zebra print lining. Exclusively available from Proporta Accessories.

Key Features

  • Dress to impress
  • High gloss patent leather
  • Internal mirror
  • Magnetic closure system
  • Framed with a soft feel zebra print lining

Porta Aluminium lined leather Case

Our second choice is the Aluminium Lined Leather Case (Apple iPhone 3G/3GS) approx. £30

The Proporta Aluminium Lined Leather Case (Apple iPhone 3G/3GS) is handmade to meet the exact specifications of your device. Available in a variety of colours.

The Aluminium Lined Leather Case (Apple iPhone 3G/3GS) is hand crafted from high quality leather to meet the exact specifications of your Apple iPhone 3G/3GS. Featuring a trademark ‘Screen Saver System’, a sheet of rigid, lightweight aircraft grade Aluminium lines the Case to protect your precious device from crushing and impact shocks. Stylish and clever.

Key Features

  • Handcrafted from the finest quality leather
  • Dimensions = H x W x D : 98 x 45 x 10
  • Closure System : magnetic clasp
  • Custom-made to hold your Apple iPhone 3GS securely in place
  • Instructions on how to fit the case : open case and slide device in the opening at top of case.
  • Cutouts : Cutouts on sides for all buttons and for charging
  • Contrast overstitching
  • Cut-outs for access to device whilst in the case
  • Dimensions : 125 x 70 x 75 mm
  • Closure System : magnetic clasp
  • Attachment System : C-clip
  • Instructions on how to fit the case : Simply slide the device into the clip

Ted Baker Leather Case

Our third choice is a Ted Baker Leather Case (Apple iPhone 3G Series) approximately £30

Styled by Ted Baker London – distributed by Proporta. This stylish Leather Case is the ideal accessory for your Apple (iPhone 3G). Destined to get a great reception. Available in a range of colour options.

Key Features

  • Styled by Ted Baker.
  • Your device can be used whilst in the Leather Case
  • All ports and controls easily accessible

The next 3 cases are designed for your Iphone 4 and can all be found at O2 Accessories – visit the o2 website.

Glacier iPhone 4 cases Twin Pack – clear and grey

£13.00

  • Buy one Get one Free
  • Twin pack of iPhone 4 cases clear and grey
  • Diamond effect design
  • Hard wearing protection for your handset
  • Free delivery

Glacier iPhone 4 cases Twin Pack – purple and pink

£13.00

  • Buy one Get one Free
  • Twin pack of iPhone 4 cases – Purple and Pink
  • Diamond effect design
  • Hard wearing protection for your handset
  • Free delivery

OtterBox Defender Case for iPhone 4 – Black

This is my personal favourite case & Available from O2 at £30 – visit the o2 website.

You won’t find a tougher case than the OtterBox Defender Series for iPhone 4. This three-layer case will keep your iPhone safe from drops, scratches, bumps and dust.

Last, but not least, is the Griffin white case.

Griffin Reveal Case for iPhone 4G

White at approximately £15 from O2

The Griffin Reveal Case for iPhone 4G is designed to shield your iPhone from the indignities of the outside world. If you cannot get a white iPhone 4 the next best thing is a white iPhone 4 case.

For more information please visit the o2 website.

Apple bruised over iPhone 4 concerns

October 11, 2010

The consumer watchdog has taken Apple to task over warranty issues as reports surface of new design problems relating to the iPhone 4’s glass body.


Third-party iPhone 4 cases are reportedly causing the glass back panel to crack.
Third-party iPhone 4 cases are reportedly causing the glass back panel to crack. The consumer watchdog’s concerns come as new reports describe large cracks appearing in the iPhone 4’s glass body when certain third-party slide-on cases are used.

The affected cases are Apple-approved third party products, not the rubber “bumper” sleeves that Apple was forced to give away free following the antenna issue that caused reception problems when the iPhone 4 was gripped in a certain way by the hand.

Apple has apparently found that non-bumper style cases – specifically those that slide on to the iPhone 4, which are occasionally prone to particulate matter getting caught between the rear of the phone and the case – can cause unexpected scratching that could quickly develop into  much larger fracturing of the entire rear pane of glass. Apple is so concerned it has withdrawn all third party cases initially approved and sold in their stores.

Some users had complained about Apple’s iPhone warranty process, specifically that they were receiving refurbished replacement models instead of new phones and that they had to wait weeks to get a replacement.

The Wall Street Journal has suggested that Apple was working on a new version of the iPhone 4 for Verizon Wireless in the US to be launched early next year, that would have a slightly different form factor to fix some of the apparent design problems. Such concerns may indicate why a long-awaited white version of the iPhone 4 has still not been given a release date.

The glass design of the iPhone 4 has been described as ‘form over function‘ as within days of the handset’s launch, repair shops were complaining that the glass design was very fragile. Treat your iPhone 4 with respect as accidental damage is not covered by Apple under warranty. It might be worth considering Energizer’s new silicon case for your Apple Iphone 4 as it not only protects but also double’s up as a power source. The AP 1201 is designed to provide high-speed battery charge directly to the iPhone, or pass-through charge using a USB cable. It is good for approximately 500 charges. The AP 1201 is a direct response to the power deficits that users are experiencing with their iPhone 4.

On the case of iPhone 4

October 9, 2010

Apple sold 1.7 million iPhone 4 within days of its release. The iPhone 4 is a great looking mobile phone with an original shape, aluminum trim, sharp edges and two panels of glass. This new design has been described as ‘form over function’ – the iPhone 4 certainly looks superb but two panels of glass doubles the risk of inadvertly damaging the handset.

The problems started soon after its release when it became clear that users found that the iPhone 4’s external antenna was blocked by the hand when covering the lower-left side of the handset- causing service problems in areas with poor coverage. Apple quickly resolved this problem by offering free bumper cases – a survey by Piper Jaffray analyst Gene Munster estimated that Apple lost 880,000 sales as a result of the antenna concerns. The bumper cases are not the cause of  recent reports regarding cases that cause scratching and shattering of the phone’s rear glass panel.

Non-bumper iPhone 4 cases are said to risk trapping particulate matter between the rear of the iPhone 4 and its case. Such dust particles can build up and cause scratches that may develop into larger fractures and cracks to the glass back. Apple has reacted quickly by removing all third-party cases from its stores and are currently investigating the problem. If there really is a widespread problem users will understandably start demanding compensation, or free fixes. However, future complaints should be minimised now that we have been alerted to the dangers and risks.

If like me you would still buy an iPhone 4 then it  might be the right time for you to get a good deal. Check our website links for current deals on reconditioned and new iPhones. Re your choice of case – forewarned is forearmed.

Source: Financial Post News.

Use of your iPhone 3GS and battery power

April 12, 2010

The 3GS has a longer battery life and is twice as fast as iPhone 3G. The Iphones have built in rechargeable lithium batteries charged via USB to your computer system or a power adapter.

The battery life on the 3GS can give you 5 hours of talk time and 300 hours standby. Internet use of up to 5 hours on 3G networks but up to 9 hours on Wi-Fi. You have up to 30 hours audio playback available and video playback of up to 10 hours.

HSDPA on the 3GS gives faster maximum download speeds (up to 7.2 Mbps). Tethering allows the iPhone to be used as a 3G data modem for mobile broadband for a laptop or netbook – but you will have to purchase an additional Internet Tethering Bolt On which will cost you £15 a month with a 3GB cap or £29.36 with a 10GB cap. Please visit our recommended iPhone stores online to learn more.

Best satnav is iPhone with TomTom

February 24, 2010

Which Magazine (March 2010) have recently reviewed and rated satnav apps and found that the highest scoring best app was iPhone with TomTom (app £60, car kit £100).  These prices don’t include the phone of course and for customers who have already purchased V1.0, upgrade to V1.2 is free of charge. Smartphone satnav apps can usually only be used on one brand of smartphone. For example, the TomTom app is specific to the iPhone.

The kit has a GPS receiver to enhance the signal and charge your iPhone as you travel and this significantly improves the app’s performance. The separate speaker improves the sound quality so that there is no distortion at higher volumes. This version also has great features such as spoken road names, advanced lane guidance and a help menu. It also has an updated map and camera database.

The iPhone’s screen has a 12.9 aspect ratio offering a clear route display and the screen adjusts according to its orientation. The TomTom cradle allows for this adjustment without removing from your car windscreen.

Downsides are the small icons make it more difficult to programme compared to a dedicated satnav and the schematics are small compared with most standalones. The app also works on iPod touch.

If you wish to learn more about the Which test lab results visit www.which.co.uk/satnavs

Visit www.apple.com/iphone/apps-for-iphone for apps and www.tomtom.com for more information re their satnavs

Paul Frank iPhone case

February 21, 2010

The fashion label Paul Frank have released a number of fun, rubber cases for the iphone and itouch. Priced around £25 the cases add a bit of cartoon fun to the ultra-styled iphone.

From the Apple store;

“Paul Frank brings you a fashionable way to protect your iPhone 3G. Made from super-durable silicone, this case hugs your iPhone and keeps it safe from accidental damage while you’re taking calls or listening to your music on the go.”

Flexible, silicone style

It allows full functionality, with custom cutouts providing access to all touch controls, headphone jack, dock connector, camera, speaker and the microphone for easy in-case use. It’s a great way to protect and add the Paul Frank style to your sleek iPhone 3G without extra bulk.

Features

  • Simply slips on for easy use
  • Form-fitting for effective grip and protection without adding bulk
  • Access to all touch controls and dock connector
  • Openings for speaker, microphone, camera and headphone jack
  • Durable, flexible silicone rubber construction
  • Stylish Paul Frank graphics
  • Of course -the case fits both the iPhone and iPhone 3GS

Safeguard your iPhone 3G with this form-fitting protective case from Paul Frank. It’s a durable, stylish rubber surround that keeps your iPhone looking as good as new, with a classic Paul Frank design.

  • Custom fit for more grip without extra bulk
  • Access to all controls, touch screen and dock
  • Openings for speakerphone, microphone and camera
  • Durable and flexible silicone construction

Buy your Paul Frank case on the

UK Apple store website

Ebay website

Budget – £25