3GS (Invisible Shield) or Cases

DAB

Mod Emeritus
Oct 9, 2008
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Have any of you guys installed an Invisible Shield or are you using a case of some sort? Just curious how you guys are protecting your iPhone.

I initially installed the full Invisible Shield, but then on the Apple web site they didn't recommend a shield due to the Oleophobic coating on the display. I removed it from the display because I feared that the Invisible Shield may damage it. I ran without the IS for about 2 weeks and while I never got any scratches and the screen was so easy to wipe off, I was always paranoid about scratching it, so I put the IS back on it. It isn't like the IS will protect it against drops, but I just feel better with it on there.

So, are you guys using any protection on your displays or iPhone at all?

I have to say I've been most impressed with the Oleophobic coating on the display, it made wiping it off so easy, unlike most displays. It also make using the touch screen very smooth, even compared to having the IS on it, which just doesn't make it quite as smooth.
 

mrpacs

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Oct 11, 2008
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I'm naked on the screen. I used to have the Anti-Glare screen protector purchased from the Apple Store on my old 3G. I feel that the screen just doesn't need it and my Belt-clip-holster-case combo has the screen facing "in". I use and recommend the Seido Holster Combo. I've dropped my iPhone at least a half dozen times and this case has protected the phone completely; no damage to the phone whatsoever. The 3Gs screen is SO MUCH better than the 3G screen. Not neartly as much smudging. DAB. have you ever seen the 3G screen and it's smudging?
Power Support Anti-Glare Film Set for iPhone 3G - Apple Store (U.S.)
seidioonline.com
BD2-HLCSRIPH3G-BK-2.jpg
 

DAB

Mod Emeritus
Oct 9, 2008
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I think this 3GS screen is the best I've seen on any device in terms of smudging and fingerprints. It is so easy to keep clean and wipes off, this is why I debated covering it with the Invisible Shield. I've read various things about that Oleophobic screen and the one thing it isn't a totally scratch resistant, though probably moreso that many displays out there.

I am just fearful of having my screen get scratched!

I am not a big holster guy, so for me those holsters are pretty much out. I much prefer to shove it down in my left pants pocket with the screen against my skin side. I wear lose fitting clothes with deep pockets so I don't have to worry about it being too tight on it or falling out. I did this with my Razr2 for years!

I use docks a good bit so for me having a thick case or shell just would be a pain in the butt. Still I do want to protect it as much as possible.

Interesting read here about this Oleophobic coating coming off phones prematurely... Unconfirmed of course!

http://www.ilounge.com/index.php/ne...s-oleophobic-coating-wearing-off-prematurely/
 

mrpacs

Well-Known Member
Oct 11, 2008
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If you are planning on keeping your iphone in your front pants pocket, I would recommend getting a screen protector. I would anyway. Coins, keys and other items you shove in there may scratch your iphone.
 

DAB

Mod Emeritus
Oct 9, 2008
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I've already installed the full body Invisible Shield as stated in my original post, so I am good to go! Just curious what everyone else was doing in terms of protecting the display or using cases to do so.
 

jef

Power Pig, Hello!
Oct 12, 2008
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I've got an iPod touch and I also go naked on the screen - but I'm also very careful to not put it in my front pockets as mrpacs points out. Anecdotally, though, I know a guy who is on his 3rd iPhone (upgrades to the latest and greatest a lot) and has yet to scratch the screen in any significant way. He even lets his kid carry them around.

I did buy one of these, though, for bit of extra grip. Sure is slippery without it: Slider Case for iPod touch 2G : Incase Product
 

DAB

Mod Emeritus
Oct 9, 2008
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I've got an iPod touch and I also go naked on the screen - but I'm also very careful to not put it in my front pockets as mrpacs points out. Anecdotally, though, I know a guy who is on his 3rd iPhone (upgrades to the latest and greatest a lot) and has yet to scratch the screen in any significant way. He even lets his kid carry them around.

I did buy one of these, though, for bit of extra grip. Sure is slippery without it: Slider Case for iPod touch 2G : Incase Product

Well the point of the Invisible Shield is that you don't have to worry about keys or change in your pocket as the device is fully protected from such things.

My issue with most cases is that they add bulk, which totally takes a way from the thin sleekness of the device. Though having a holster (mrpacs) or case like Ernie suggest just allows you to store them when not in use. I may have to try one of these, though I am not much into belt clips and holsters. Honstly I've probably never given them a fair chance as my preference is just to stick the darn thing in my pocket. Left pocket only for iPod or iPhone, change and other things go in the right pocket! See its a system! hehehe

My iPod Touch has been protected for over 2 years with an Invisible Shield as still looks brand new and I don't have to be careful with it. It has slid around in my brief case, had stuff thrown on top of it in my console.
 

Evil_Ernie

Smell my finger
Oct 11, 2008
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If you want to put it in your pocket, a cheaper alternative would be to use an eyeglass pouch. That's what I used the first day I got my original iPhone before I got the DLO case.
 

jef

Power Pig, Hello!
Oct 12, 2008
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Left pocket only for iPod or iPhone, change and other things go in the right pocket! See its a system! hehehe

Heh - my system is keys in the left, change and pocket knife in the right. I'm screwed no matter which pocket I go with. I'm still going to try to not have to use a screen protector unless I have to, so hopefully you guys won't see my Touch listed for sale "with minimal scratches" any time soon :D
 

DAB

Mod Emeritus
Oct 9, 2008
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incase slider

Well after much debate with myself and reviewing every case out there that works with iPhone 3G / 3GS I opted to go with the InCase Slider! Only problem if you have a full body Invisible Shield it is a nightmare to get on and off which defeats the purpose. So, I sent email to Zagg and they told me just to take the front and back off, send it to them, they will refund my money, then I can just get the front screen protector only.

I love this InCase Slider, because it really doesn't add a lot of weight or bulk, yet seem to provide really good protection with a matte finish (no fingerprints). I went on and picked up another Invisible Shield front screen only at Best Buy, so now Zagg can just refund me the other one. Anyway what I like most about this InCase Slider is that you can just simply slide the bottom off and dock it in just about any dock, so that means I can use it my JBL On Stage or 3G standard dock with no issues. Slides in and out of my pocket without picking up lent. It is recommended that at least once a week you take it out totally give the phone and the case a good wipe down and the put it back together. Sounds reasonable to me! I am happy with it, so if anyone is looking for a decent case that doesn't add bulk to the iPhone 3G or 3GS take a look at this one. It is available in several colors and ranges in price from $29 to $35 depending on where purchased.

dab-albums-dab-s-pic-album-picture239-incase-slider-black-front.jpg
dab-albums-dab-s-pic-album-picture240-incase-slider-black-back.jpg
dab-albums-dab-s-pic-album-picture241-incase-slider-black-side.jpg


Slider Case for iPhone 3GS and iPhone 3G : Incase Product
 

Sirius Rich

Well-Known Member
Oct 11, 2008
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Well after much debate with myself and reviewing every case out there that works with iPhone 3G / 3GS I opted to go with the InCase Slider!

Great review and this is too funny. The daughter and I just got back from the Apple Store with her new InCase Slider. She has a white iPhone, but the case she wanted was black due to the texture and feel compared to the slick feeling white InCase Slider. We also bought the Power Support non glare screen protector. The Genius had one on his iPhone and the selling point was no finger prints. He is right! http://www.powersupportusa.com/product/show/antiglare-film-for-iphone-3g

We were looking at the Invisible Shield before going in the Apple Store, but the dude said it would be two hours before he could get to it. All in all, the daughter is extremely happy the way things turned out.

I did buy my son the Griffin Clarifi as he will take use of the magnifying lens in his lab work and reports at work. Bought on eBay for $21.45 and will be here in a few days. I will let you know how he likes it.
 

DAB

Mod Emeritus
Oct 9, 2008
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Great review and this is too funny. The daughter and I just got back from the Apple Store with her new InCase Slider. She has a white iPhone, but the case she wanted was black due to the texture and feel compared to the slick feeling white InCase Slider. We also bought the Power Support non glare screen protector. The Genius had one on his iPhone and the selling point was no finger prints. He is right! Anti-glare Film for iPhone 3G/3GS - iPhone 3G/3GS Accessories - Power Support USA

We were looking at the Invisible Shield before going in the Apple Store, but the dude said it would be two hours before he could get to it. All in all, the daughter is extremely happy the way things turned out.

I did buy my son the Griffin Clarifi as he will take use of the magnifying lens in his lab work and reports at work. Bought on eBay for $21.45 and will be here in a few days. I will let you know how he likes it.


Thanks Rich,

Wow, I wish I had found that antiglare screen protector. The one thing I have noticed since using the Invisible Shield is how much lent sticks to it. I have not installed this one I picked up, so I may just order one of these and bring this Invisible Sheld screen protector back!

That Griffin Clarifi looks sweet too and works the same way as the InCase except with the magnifying lens. That seems to work very well from all the various reviews on it. Sounds like you got a good deal on it too.

Update: I just ordered that antiglare screen protector, since we don't have an Apple Store nearby it is the best I can do. Glad you posted before I installed that Invisible Shield again. mrpacs I must have missed that the first time when you posted it, though I had already go with the Invisible Shield and was thinking I'd stay with it, but changed my mine since the InCase didn't work with it.
 

jef

Power Pig, Hello!
Oct 12, 2008
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Well after much debate with myself and reviewing every case out there that works with iPhone 3G / 3GS I opted to go with the InCase Slider! ... It is available in several colors and ranges in price from $29 to $35 depending on where purchased.

Way to go - it's a great case. Gunmetal is the coolest color ;)

As for the cleaning you mentioned, every week or 2 should suffice. It's not horrible about picking up schmutz and whatnot, but eventually stuff will tend to get down close to the edges of the case. Easy-Peasy, though, and no worries.

Let us know if the anti-glare screen plays nice with having this particular case!
 

Sirius Rich

Well-Known Member
Oct 11, 2008
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Thanks Rich,

...
Update: I just ordered that antiglare screen protector, since we don't have an Apple Store nearby it is the best I can do. Glad you posted before I installed that Invisible Shield again. mrpacs I must have missed that the first time when you posted it, though I had already go with the Invisible Shield and was thinking I'd stay with it, but changed my mine since the InCase didn't work with it.


IF you take your time and get the screen protector on straight, you will have no bubble issues. The InCase Slider has very tight tolerances. I was kinda amazed at these well engineered tolerances for a piece of plastic. I did the best I could and have a very small bubble in one corner. The daughter is happy with the results. My point is to take your time applying the screen protector. You do get two in the package.
 

Jon

Well-Known Member
Dec 16, 2008
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For the most part the phone is going commando. I do have a carrying case for it that hangs on a belt, but it's not used often since I'm wearing scrubs more often than not for school. The phone does have a slight scratch about the speaker, but beyond that its held up pretty well. I am possibly considering a case for my next one, to protect against drops more than anything.