It scores one point for concept, and loses three for implementation: the so-called Stealth Armor Carbon Edition ($65) from Fusion of Ideas is carbon fiber-styled film that can be applied to the back of an iPhone 3G or 3GS, transforming the normally white or black plastic shell into an imitation of a charcoal black carbon fiber panel. Fusion of Ideas can apparently customize the Stealth Armor with one-color overlaid graphics, as well, assuming you’re interested in paying more than $65 for a piece of plastic iPhone film. High price aside, the thickness of the film makes it less than totally ideal to wrap around the corners of an iPhone 3G or 3GS, and the gaps in back coverage obviously leave it looking less than totally impressive, particularly on a white-bodied iPhone. It’s a fair enough idea, but not one we’d rush out to buy.
Updated: Following publication of this First Look, Fusion of Ideas contacted us to say that proper installation of Stealth Armor is apparently supposed to involve running the iPhone 3G or 3GS under a hair dryer, followed by a 24-hour period in which the phone should be kept out of pockets or cases. As we told the company, we have no interest in subjecting the notoriously crackable plastic shells of our iPhones to the sorts of “liberal heat” apparently required for installation; you can decide for yourself whether to shell out the money and take the risks involved in an application process like this.
Our Rating
Company and Price
Company: Fusion of Ideas
Website: www.Fusionofideas.com
Model: Stealth Armor
Price: $65
Compatible: iPhone 3G/3GS