First Looks
Welcome to our new, continuously-updated First Looks - a collection of previews showing brand new iPod, iPhone and iPad accessories that we’re currently in the process of testing. Here’s what’s hot right now:
ClamCase ClamCase Pro for iPad Air
Once again, ClamCase is back with a premium keyboard case. This time, it's ClamCase Pro for iPad Air ($169). Coming in at a price high above what most keyboard cases cost these days, this one is made of a combination of aluminum, plastic, and soft touch rubber. The shell that holds the iPad is polycarbonate, with the soft touch material serving as the hinge. The keyboard itself is metal with plastic keys. A relative rarity for keyboard cases, button coverage is built into the case; there are also very tight holes for the ports. The rechargeable battery is made to last for 100 hours of uninterrupted use, and six months of standby time.
Company: Armpocket Enterprises
Models: Xtreme i-30, Ultra i-35
MSRP: $40-$45
Compatibility: iPhone 6/Air
Armpocket Xtreme i-30 + Ultra i-35 Armbands for iPhone 6/Air
Although Apple hasn't said anything yet about its next-generation iPhone models, that's not stopping accessory makers from peddling wares that most likely will fit them. Armpocket has joined the pack with Xtreme i-30 ($40) and Ultra i-35 ($45), armbands claimed to be ready for the iPhone 6/Air. Both models are moisure-wicking pouches with clear plastic screen protectors built-in, and offered in your choice of three armband lengths. Behind where a phone fits, there's a pocket for keys, cash, and cards, and the carriers help protect from sweat and water. The i-30 will be aimed at bare or encased 4.7"-screened iPhones, with the ability to hold bare 5.5"-screened iPhones, while the i-35 is large enough to hold the 5.5"-screened iPhone inside or outside a case.
Company: Plantronics
Model: BackBeat Fit
MSRP: $130
Compatibility: All Bluetooth-Capable iPads, iPhones + iPods
Plantronics BackBeat Fit Bluetooth Wireless Headphones
Plantronics, the makers of our favorite Bluetooth earbuds to date, are back with BackBeat Fit ($130), a pair of wireless sport headphones. Coming in black with either bright green or blue accents, the headphones are outfitted with a band that wraps around the back of the head. Each rubber earbud is designed to funnel audio into the ear canal properly, and includes a stabilizing inner ear ring. Controls on either side let you answer calls or play/pause music, and the headphones are protected from sweat and moisture. Listening time is claimed at eight hours, with 14 days of standby time, and a power saving hibernation mode that allows them to stay charged for up to six months when not paired. An included neoprene carrying case reverses to double as a workout armband.
Spigen Thin Fit / A for iPhone 6 (4.7”)
How confident is Spigen in the size, shape, and dimensions of Apple's as-yet-unannounced iPhone 6 / iPhone Air? Enough to debut Thin Fit and Thin Fit A ($15), new form-fitting shells made to protect the sides and backs of Apple's next-generation 4.7"-screened iPhone. The basic Thin Fit versions come in clear and opaque versions, including one non-slip black version, slightly pearlescent white, and light blue. Each has holes for the side-mounted controls and rear camera, plus complete coverage gaps for the iPhone's top, bottom, and front. Thin Fit A adds a circular cut-out for the Apple logo, albeit with clear protection to keep the logo from being scratched; it comes in flat black and gunmetal versions. As the photos show, each case's rounded sides, noticeably greater height, and slightly larger width suggest that the next iPhone's 4.7" screen will be markedly larger than the 4" iPhone 5/5c/5s displays. They'll be available for purchase in late September.
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