OtterBox has just announced that they are educating their Defender Series Cases for the iPhone 4/4S (What about the 5?) with a new feature called iON Intelligence. The iON Intelligence Defender Series Case features a built in 1450mAh battery that will double your battery life.  It’s not just the extra mAh power that makes this case last longer for the iPhone power user. OtterBox has also built in software that will manage the power consumption as well as charging of the iPhone to maximize the life cycle of your iPhone while on battery power. The iON Intelligence App that comes included will monitor the battery life while predicting the amount of time you have left on battery charge. It knows when to charge your phone.

The iON Intelligence Series Defender Cases are built with the same 3 piece construction that has made the Defender Case so popular, so you can expect outstanding protection for your device as well as longer battery life.

The iON Intelligent Defender Case for the iPhone 4/4S costs $129.95 and is in stock at OtterBox. Currently Graphite (Black) is the only color offered.

I can hear Simmons already hacking on his keyboard sending me another “why did you post a cheesy accessory article” when you should be concentrating on writing articles that are engaging to our readers!” Well that’s because these are some really cool cases that’s why! Most serious geeks have a passion for the Hobbit and LOTR and if you have an iPhone then you can have some serious bling for your device! There are 27 cases for the iPhone 4 and 4S and 13 available for the iPhone 5 which is sort of a bummer because I have an iPhone 5 and they don’t have the Balrog  case that is easily my favorite.

In the iPhone 5 selection I think my favorite is Gandalf image from The Hobbit:

The cases all cost $34.95 plus shipping and are available now at HobbitShop.com

Pssst: if you do some searches I found them on Amazon for $9 bucks.

Wood! Yep, iFrogz has just launched a line of eco-friendly cases for the iPhone 5 that feature real wood! The cases are made of recycled materials but also has real wood inlays on them. Personally I don’t think wood and technology mix myself, but that’s just me and I’m a nobody so it doesn’t really matter what I think right?!

-iFrogz specializing in creative, fashion-driven mobile accessories, has launched a premium, eco-friendly line of cases for the Apple^® iPhone 5^®. Called the Natural series, each case is made from a combination of woods and recyclable thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) to protect the device from dents, scratches, and abrasion.

“Our new Natural cases for the iPhone 5 give our customers device protection along with eye-catching and unique design,” said Kent Wuthrich, executive vice president of marketing for ZAGG Inc, which manufactures and markets iFrogz products. “The Natural series combines form and function with the use of recyclable materials, and we are excited about this latest addition to our portfolio of creative product solutions.”

Available in five options, iFrogz Natural cases are crafted to be both fashionable and durable, offering distinctive prints and reliable protection without the extra bulk. Designs include:

Cacao: A design that invokes retro styling and images of cobblestone streets and antique woodworking.

Oasis: For the architect or interior designer who values clean lines and patterns.

Rockwood: Ideal for a fashionista, the case features a zigzag pattern of wood in blues, reds, oranges and yellows.

Surf: Reminiscent of a retro surfboard and beach bonfires, the Surf features a combination of woods.

Zabrano: Crafted to resemble Zebrano, or Zebrawood, from the Congo of Africa.

All cases in the Natural series retail for $49.99, and are available online at iFrogz.com and at select retail locations nationwide.

It’s been a long week, I’m so glad it’s over. Well I hope it’s over, at least it’s over so far I guess right? I mean it is Saturday after all. Anyway, I’ve got some catching up to do so let’s start with the new Thin Series of wood cases from iPhone 5. Wood is nice, but it’s earthy and personally I don’t think wood and tech mix. It’s just my opinion, that’s just the way I think of it. They are nice looking cases, but I wouldn’t want one, but that doesn’t mean you wouldn’t…

AViiQ, an award-winning brand of fashion, technology and lifestyle accessories has released a new offering of wood iPhone 5 cases. With three years of developing trend-setting design and innovation to the gadget accessory industry, AViiQ applies its design mastery to Apple® iPhone 5 Cases with the release of the ultra-thin and ultra-light Thin Series.

AViiQ Thin Series Wood iPhone 5 Case
AViiQ’s Thin series with real Wood iPhone 5 Cases are the newest addition to our product line-up. Designed to protect the iPhone 5 without adding extra bulk, our wood iPhone 5 cases feature a very fine textured satin finish and now feature a super thin real wood veneer in different wood colors and styles. This super thin wood iPhone 5 cover comes in at only 0.14mm in thickness making it not only extra thin, but light, just like the iPhone 5. Specifically tailored to fit like a glove, the Thin series wood trim cases are molded to the exact shape and specifications of the iPhone 5. AViiQ has it covered, literally. 

Its lightweight polycarbonate material, which is stronger than standard ABS material, maintains a slim profile while providing all-round protection against scratches from everyday use. The AViiQ Thin Series for the Apple® iPhone 5 allows easy access to all ports and buttons while retaining the near-invisible form-factor of the device. From bright yellow to blue, AViiQ has many cool color styles and real wood combinations for you to chose from. The AViiQ Thin Series Wood iPhone 5 Cases are available in five colors and real wood veneer options including: Black with Dark Walnut Wood White with Light Maple Wood, Yellow with Dark Walnut Wood, Green with Cherry Wood and Blue with Cherry Wood with a retailing at 27.99 USD.

AViiQ Thin Series Wood iPhone 5 Case comes with a 100% satisfaction guarantee, a full refund policy within 30 days of purchase and is available for $27.99 at http://www.AViiQ.com.

Find it at these online retail partners: AViiQ.com , Amazon.com , Lollimobile.com

There are some really cool new accessories hitting the market in the wake of the iPhone 5 release. And even though there has been a lot of bad press about various issues revolving around the iPhone 5, you can count on a lot of these devices being sold. The first and most popular accessory of course is a case. You got to protect your investment right? Well, there are a lot of options but there are also some cases that include some pretty cool features. One of course being a battery extender. Now however, there is a new concept from Kickstarter called iExpander. The iExpander by Corr-Tech “has selected the CAP-XX supercapacitor-enabled BriteFlash architecture to power the high-performance LED flash in its new iExpander accessories for the iPhone 4/4S and iPhone 5.”

At the heart of the iExpander is an ultra-thin CAP-XX HS206 supercapacitor and a powerful LED flash module. The supercapacitor overcomes the limitations of the battery to deliver more power to the LEDs, extend the length of the flash pulse, and increase the total light energy emitted by the flash. The result is crisp photographs and clear videos, even in low light.

The iExpander also includes a microSD card slot and a second battery, increasing the memory capacity and battery life of the iPhone, and is packaged in a sleek, graphite-reinforced nylon case which adds just 6.3mm to the thickness of the phone. The iPhone 5 version of the iExpander also includes the original 30-pin connector in addition to a Lightning port, so users can charge from and dock to previous-generation iPhone/iPod accessories.

Corr-Tech is raising capital at Kickstarter.com (http://kck.st/QbDnEF) to help bring the iExpander to fruition. Production is to start in November 2012, with the first units shipping to customers before year-end.

Check out CAP-XX BriteFlash for more on the iExpander: http://www.cap-xx.com/news/photogallery.php#iExpander

The KickStarter page is located here: http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/108290897/iexpander-an-expansion-device-for-your-iphone-4-an

If you are looking for a case that is not only amazing quality but something I doubt many if any of your friends will have, check out this Element Case for the iPhone 5. The Element Case is machined from CNC 6061 aerospace-grade aluminum, top secret aerospace-grade polymers and features a “multi-link” design allowing for quick installation, complete customization only a single screw to hold the case together. The new Element Case for the iPhone 5 sets a very high standard for other case manufacturers to follow.

“The All New Sector Case Debuts Quick-install, “Multi-link” Technology to Protect, Stylize and Elevate the Concept of a Case for iPhone 5”

The Sector 5 FE model will be available only in a special Gunmetal grey Flux finish with a matching ultra-suede back plate. More colors to be made available after FE production.

The Sector 5 is $159.99 with the Ultrasuede backing, or $149.99 without.

The Sector’s features include:

· Ultra thin “Multi-link” system for fast and easy install
· Modular design for replacement and upgrade parts option
· CNC machined in the US using aerospace grade materials
· Large volume control ports for easy access
· Laser engraved FE “First Edition” insignia
· Large peripheral ports, fully compatible for the 30 Pin or Lightning cables
· Protective Zipper case with transit kit (screen protector and speed wrench)
· Carbon Fiber back plate and Genuine Ultra suede back plate.

So, you looking for a case for your shiny new iPhone 5? Well I think Speck has you covered with the introduction of eight new types of cases for you. You’ll be able to get them now online, at AT&T, Sprint, Target or Nordstroms with varying prices of course and varying colors, styles and designs!

Starting today, a wide range of new Speck cases is available for the exciting new iPhone 5. The new line includes colorful updates of the popular styles that make Speck cases favorites among iPhone users.

Select Speck cases for iPhone 5 are available at AT&T, Sprint, Target, Best Buy and Nordstrom. All of the following cases are available at speckproducts.com:

• CandyShell – The top-selling CandyShell combines two layers of protection in a slimmer-than-ever, single-piece case. The strong exterior guards against impact, and the soft rubbery interior absorbs shock from occasional bumps and drops. A raised bezel keeps the screen safe and pristine, and rubberized covers shield buttons.
• CandyShell Flip – The CandyShell Flip is built for docking with a flip-up panel that lets the iPhone easily slide onto accessories with Lightning connection or 30 pin connection plus Lightning adaptor. It has all of the same slim-fitting protection as the classic CandyShell.
• CandyShell Grip – Made for gamers, texters and butterfingers, the CandyShell Grip combines protection and gripping bands of color for style, and strategically placed ridges to keep thumbs aligned with touchscreen buttons. Like all CandyShells, it has two layers of protection in a single-piece, pop-in construction.
• SmartFlex Card– Like a wallet and iPhone case in one, the SmartFlex Card features a clever side-loading slot for up to three cards or folded bills. Superior to other wallet-style cases, it’s easy to push cards in and out with no slippage, and the supple case is easy to pop on and off.
• SmartFlex View – Great for film fanatics and video chatters, SmartFlex View transforms the iPhone into a free-standing display in an instant. The pull-out stand makes horizontal or vertical viewing easy and snaps back into place when not in use.
• FabShell – FabShell is a fabric-covered case that comes in a variety of colors and patterns. It’s a one-piece case with the durability of a hard shell, including a raised bezel that keeps the screen safe and rubberized covers to shield buttons. FabShell Burton is a special collection designed in collaboration with Burton Snowboards to coordinate with their winter 2013 collection of outerwear.
• PixelSkin – PixelSkin grips iPhones – and hands – securely with a lightweight, no-slip rubbery layer of pixel-perfect protection. Its stunning line-up of bright, bold colors and flexible, form-fitting casing protect iPhone 5 in style.
• PixelSkin HD – The slim and smooth PixelSkin HD turns up the style and the grippyness with high-contrast matte pixels. Its flexible construction makes it easy to put on and take off, and a variety of classic, rich colors gives it a sophisticated look that complements every pixel.

Stay tuned to speckproducts.com for more details on the new iPhone 5 line. Whether the priority is secure protection, enhanced function, sweet style or all of the above, Speck has iPhone owners covered.

In the aftermath of Tim Cook taking center stage and announcing the iPhone 5 and it’s new screen size, the next announcement is a from a long time partner in protecting the iPhone with OtterBox. OtterBox, best known for it’s ultimate in protection Defender Series Cases is back with not only cool new looking colors, but a new series as well.

NEW IPHONE 5 DEFENDER SERIES CASE

The Defender Series iPhone 5 case is the only case for demanding conditions, heavy use and random accidents. Three layers of protection include a polycarbonate skeleton that cushions the iPhone while the built-in screen protector prevents smudges and scratches. The outer layer wraps around the solid inner shell like an epidermis, creating a practically indestructible iPhone 5 case. A belt-clip holster is included and doubles as a media viewing stand. The Defender Series case for the iPhone 5 will protect your investment from drops, dust and other accidents. Why do you think we named it the Defender Series?

NEW IPHONE 5 COMMUTER SERIES

The Commuter Series iPhone 5 case is sleek enough to slide into your pocket yet tough enough to toss into your bag. Built with two-layers of protection and an adhesive screen protector, the Commuter Series iPhone 5 case provides the protection that will keep your device looking stylish while you stay on top of your highly connected life

NEW IPHONE 5 REFLEX SERIES

Lifestyle and protection come together in this highly protective case. Providing innovative protection, the Reflex Series case for the new iPhone 5 is lightweight, easy-to-dock and portable – leaving you with a secure feeling of protection wherever and however you use your smartphone or tablet.

NEW IPHONE 5 PREFIX SERIES

The Prefix Series case for the new iPhone 5 provides a sleek yet sturdy solution to protect against shocks and bumps. The internal skeleton provides structural support while the self-adhesive screen protector prevents scratches and smudges. Get tough protection and one-step installation with the Prefix Series for the new iPhone 5.

The Defender Series will cost it’s standard price of $49.95, the Commuter Series $34.95, the Reflex Series $34.95, and the Prefix Series will be OtterBox’s new cost effective case at $24.95. All of these are available for pre-order on OtterBox’s Website.

Hey, have you all heard of this case manufacturer called OtterBox? Apparently they are a big deal or something! Just kidding! Congrats to the folks at OtterBox for another great year of growth and development of world class cases that not only look really cool, but also protect your device from those unfortunate accidents like dropping them off a Lowes building (not me but true story) or leaving your iPad on the tailgate of your family truckster and taking off and landing it on the cement! All true stories along with the hundreds of drops my kids make with their iPhones to the ground.

So today OtterBox is honored as being ranked the 85% fastest growing 500/500 company here in the Unites States and have done so 5 years in a row. Since 2008 to 2011, the company has enjoyed a three-year revenue growth of 3,311.9 percent!

Check out the rest of the press release below:

"OtterBox is dedicated to making premium accessories and putting our customers’ needs first. The reward is a loyal and growing fan base,” said OtterBox President and CEO Brian Thomas. “Making the Inc. 500 list once is an honor and being among an elite group of multi-year recipients is humbling. It’s really a testament to the dedication and passion of our hardworking employees, or Otters, as we call them."

This year marks the fifth time that OtterBox has been honored in Inc. magazine’s exclusive ranking of the nation’s fastest-growing private companies. Companies that reach this milestone are part of the Inc. 5000 Honor Roll. OtterBox is one of only five companies in the Inc. 500 that are in the Honor Roll this year. Additionally, it reported the highest 2011 revenue in the top 100.

The list represents a comprehensive look at the most important segment of the economy — America’s independent entrepreneurs. Companies such as Microsoft, Zappos, Intuit, Jamba Juice, Zipcar, Clif Bar, Vizio, Oracle and many other well-known names gained early exposure as members of the Inc. 500|5000.

The 2012 Inc. 500, unveiled in the September issue of Inc. (available on newsstands today) is the most competitive crop in the list’s history. To make the cut, companies had to have achieved a staggering minimum of 770 percent sales growth. The Inc. 500’s aggregate revenue is $15.7 billion, with a median three-year growth of 1,431 percent. The companies on this year’s Inc. 500 employ more than 48,000 people and generated over 40,000 jobs in the past three years.

Complete results of the Inc. 500|5000, including company profiles and an interactive database that can be sorted by industry, region and other criteria, can be found at www.inc.com/500.

Owners of the red hot Samsung Galaxy S III that was just released here in the United States can pimp out their device with some flashy new colors and rest assured their new bling will protect their device to the fullest! OtterBox has just announced that they have released five new colors for the SGS3 that look pretty amazing.

The Defender Series will be available in the following colors:

• Atomic (green polycarbonate with purple silicone)
• Boom (pink polycarbonate with purple silicone)
• Reflection (light teal polycarbonate with dark teal silicone)
• Glacier (white polycarbonate with gray silicone)
• Blush (white polycarbonate with pink silicone), an OtterBox.com exclusive

In case you don’t know the Defender Series Cases, they have a two part inner polycarbonate shell that is encased in a premium silicone sleeve. I can assure after years of dropping various devices using this case that it works! I have 3 other family members that use them and I often wonder if they are trying to test the OtterBox Defender or trying to weasel a new phone if it fails. Fortunately I have not had to replace one of their devices that have been protected by OtterBox!

BTW: If you are a hunter, OtterBox has the RealTree Camo Defender Cases Available too.

Head on over to OtterBox for more information and to order and expect the usual $50.00 cost to apply.