First Look: Simplism Crystal Cover Set, Semi Hard Case Set + Smart Back Cover for iPad (3rd-Gen)

Simplism has updated three of its more basic cases, adding support for the third-generation iPad. We saw versions of Crystal Cover Set ($30), Semi Hard Case Set ($30), and Smart Back Cover ($25) before, so there are no big surprises here: Crystal Cover Set and Smart Back Cover are hard plastic shells, and close to identical to their iPad 2 versions, with ever-so-slightly more rounded openings on the side and bottom. Smart Back Cover is Smart Cover-compatible, while Crystal Cover Set protects all four edges of the tablet. Semi Hard Case Set is almost identical to its predecessor as well, including a full set of pack-ins: stand, screen protector film, applicator card, cloth, and dust removing tape. The one significant change in all three casts is the addition of a detachable clear plastic “sound booster.” This piece clips into the speaker grate and is supposed to direct and amplify the sound. In our preliminary testing, however, we found the difference to be surprisingly subtle — far less effective than cupping your hand behind the speaker.