iLounge

First Looks

Welcome to our new, continuously-updated First Looks - a collection of previews showing brand new iPod and iPhone accessories that we’re currently in the process of testing. For additional peeks at new accessories, check out our Free iPod + iPhone Book 4 and 2009 iPod + iPhone Buyers' Guide, already available online. Here’s what’s hot right now:

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Company: Just Mobile

Website: www.Just-mobileonline.com

Model: Gum Plus

Price: $70

Compatible: iPod 4G, 5G, classic, mini, nano, touch, iPhones

Just Mobile Gum Plus Mobile Battery Pack

Just Mobile has come up with an interesting and smart way to diversify its iPod and iPhone battery lineup in Gum Plus ($70), a repackaging of the same high-capacity 4400mAh battery from its earlier Gum Pro into a nicer-looking but larger enclosure. Those looking for a comparative bargain can still go with the $60 Pro, but Plus includes mini-USB and iPod/iPhone cables, a carrying case, and a MacBook-style aluminum enclosure with Apple-like power indicator LEDs and ports for both inbound and outbound power. It's a sharp little battery, available in November.

Company: OtterBox

Website: www.OtterBox.com

Model: Commuter Series

Price: $30-$35

Compatible: iPhone 3G/3GS

OtterBox Commuter + Commuter TL for iPhone 3G/3GS

Every year, OtterBox evolves its cases a little more from "waterproof only" into more mainstream territory, and its latest iPhone 3G/3GS cases continue that trend. Commuter ($30) is a rubber skin with an opaque hard plastic wraparound shell and a film screen protector; Commuter TL uses a similar design and screen protector, but a clear hard plastic shell that runs only from the top of the iPhone to the bottom. The difference is that the Commuter exposes the rear Apple logo on the iPhones to scratching, and the Commuter TL shows it, but covers it with clear plastic, while removing the hard plastic layer from the sides. Both designs feature top and side button coverage and flip-open Dock and Headphone port covers, with holes for everything else. OtterBox plans to offer both in multiple colors.

Company: iJacket/Aquarius Industrial

Website: http://www.iJacket.net/

Model: iJacket

Price: $TBA

Compatible: iPod nano 5G, iPhone 3G/3GS

Aquarius iJacket for iPod nano 5G, iPod classic + iPhone 3G/3GS

We've reviewed numerous iJacket cases in the past, generally praising them for their low prices, substantial protection, and wide varieties of different art and photo customization options. Now Aquarius has released iJacket for the iPod nano 5G, iPod classic, and iPhone 3G/3GS, though without any pricing information. Both come with simple film screen protectors; the nano version has full integrated Click Wheel coverage and cut-outs for the ports, Hold switch, and camera. Hopefully Aquarius will update its seemingly abandoned website with current model details.

Company: Sanrio/Spectra Merchandising International

Website: www.Spectraintl.com

Models: Wrap for iPhone 3G/3GS

Prices: $10

Compatible: iPhone 3G/3GS

Sanrio/Spectra Hello Kitty Wrap for iPhone 3G/3GS

Who knew the Hello Kitty case business could be so competitive? Back in August, we saw hard plastic shells from Power Support, and now Spectra/Jensen has the Hello Kitty Wrap for iPhone 3G/3GS, a different version made from medium-hardness rubber. Interestingly, the Spectra version is even more protective of the iPhone's body than the Power Support one, also includes a screen protector, and sells for far less -- only $10.