Introduction
OtterBox is back, and with a new Apple iPhone comes a new OtterBox iPhone Defender case. I reviewed the first generation iPhone Defender early this year, and was very impressed. So impressed, it became my permanent iPhone case until I bought the new iPhone 3G in August. When I got my new iPhone 3G, it felt naked; vulnerable to drops and damage that my previous iPhone has been protected well from.
The new OtterBox iPhone 3G Defender is very similar to the first Defender. There is the inner polycarbonate hard shell which wraps around the phone. Attached to the shell is a polycarbonate sheet that protects the screen of the iPhone but still allowing all the touchscreen features. After the shell is put on the phone, the outer silicone skin is designed to absorb impacts. OtterBox touts three layers of protection.
Layer 1: Clear protective membrane over front screen.
Layer 2: Hi-impact polycarbonate shell.
Layer 3: Durable Silicone Skin.
So does OtterBox improve on what was an impressive case? Yes. Yes they do. Read on for the details.
The case for the original iPhone covered the ring/silent switch but this revision doesn’t. I am able to change the ring/silent switch, though its status is unknown to me until I flip open the protective cover, and those with fat fingers might find it difficult to stick their finger into the hole provided to flip the switch. On the top, there is another protective cover for the headphone jack, and there is enough clearance around the headphone jack for oversized headphone plugs. The bottom has a flap for the docking port, and there are two areas of the back that are open to view the back of the phone - one for the camera and another for the Apple logo.
Features:
• OtterBox 1942 Accommodates Apple iPhone 3G 8 GB and 16 GB, both black and white models.
• Open access to sync/charge and headphone jacks.
• Use of all buttons accessible through case.
• Added bump, drop, and shock protection.
• Sleek, slim fit to Apple device.
• Open access to speakers, microphone and camera.
• Includes holster style swivel belt.
• Sound transmits through case.
Environmental Protection:
• Drop and Shock - Protection against drop, bump & shock.
• Water Protection - Not tested or recommended for water protection.
• Dust Protection - Dust does not enter in a sufficient quantity to interfere with satisfactory operation of equipment.
Specifications:
• Color: Yellow/ Black.
• Weight (Case Only): 2.2 oz.
• OtterBox 1942 Dimensions (case only):
• 4.87 in long.
• 2.77 in wide.
• 0.80 in thick.
• Manufactured by: Otterbox.
• Manufacturer Part No: 1942-05.
Note:
• This case is not fully protected against water.
• The case will provide some protection against water and dust.
• This case is not intended for underwater use.