The Week in iPhone Cases: Take 5

13.09.2012
The iPhone 5 is finally here--where by "finally," we mean "wow, the rumors have been going full-tilt for months now"--which means that case manufacturers are busy announcing all sorts of protective accessories for the latest model. In fact, this week we've got so many new cases to cover, with more announcements coming in as I write this, that we've got roundups. Here's the first; come back tomorrow for the second.

The (iPhone 5; $60) is precision-milled from a solid block of bamboo, which is then sanded and oiled by hand. It comes with a cover that matches your iPhone's color, and it can even be engraved with one of several predefined motifs or with a custom one of your choice. The case is currently on pre-order (the company requires a refundable $20 deposit to place your order), and Grove notes that the final design may vary once they get their hands on a real handset.

The (iPhone 5; $40) is a hardshell case that protects the back of your iPhone and can be custom-ordered in one of over 8,000 different patterns and images. It shares many characteristics with the (iPhone 5; $40), which comes in three pieces and provides additional protection for the phone's front. Both cases are printed using a direct-print UV process that resists scuffs and scratches.

The (iPhone 5; $70) is a case that incorporates a 2,200 mAh battery that lets your iPhone serve you for longer periods of time. Lenmar has yet to specify exactly how much use time the case adds to your handset, but the company has announced that the case will be available in white, metallic red, or black starting from December.

The company has announced that its (iPhone 5; $35) will be available for the new iPhone at the end of September. It features a strong, polycarbonate external shell lined with a soft silicone interior for maximum protection and a great feel, and it even comes with its own foldable kickstand for viewing and typing. It's available in black, blue, red, grey, white, or yellow.

The company's (iPhone 5; $50), (iPhone 5; $35), (iPhone 5; $35), and (iPhone 5; $25) case lines have been updated to support the new iPhone, and the company expects to begin shipping on September 21--the same day on which the iPhone 5 itself will be available for purchase. In the tradition of their predecessors, Otterbox's new cases offer excellent protection and are designed for active use; they're available in dozens of styles and colors.