Best Car Phone Holder? - Epic 4G Accessories

What kind of car dock/phone holders are everyone using for the Epic? naturally, I want one that will leave the aux and charger port open. What are you using? Thoughts?

VassagoX said:
What kind of car dock/phone holders are everyone using for the Epic? naturally, I want one that will leave the aux and charger port open. What are you using? Thoughts?
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Click to collapse
Amazon is your friend just like google but there is a few of them out there is one generic meant for the Epic 4G but its ****ty plastic but reviews have aid what to do to make it better one guy has actually done it for some people.
http://www.amazon.com/Samsung-Sprin...24364&sr=8-1&keywords=Samsung+Epic+Car+Holder

I purchased a bracketron that connects to the ac vent. I first I never liked the idea. But traveling with GPS and other things running it would get hot with a high amp charger. Being on the vent certainly solved that problem and charged a lot quicker since it wasn't so hot.

I realize that Google and Amazon exist. I was looking for recommendations from other Epic owners on here.
VicH3 said:
I purchased a bracketron that connects to the ac vent. I first I never liked the idea. But traveling with GPS and other things running it would get hot with a high amp charger. Being on the vent certainly solved that problem and charged a lot quicker since it wasn't so hot.
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Click to collapse
That's not a bad idea! I'm going to check those out. Thanks!

I use one I made out of a coat hangar that hangs from the ac vent that I got the idea from one of these threads.

VassagoX said:
I realize that Google and Amazon exist. I was looking for recommendations from other Epic owners on here.
That's not a bad idea! I'm going to check those out. Thanks!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
that was my recommendation haha look on amazon there are so many reviews i dont have any because they dont give me any support haha

vwags said:
I use one I made out of a coat hangar that hangs from the ac vent that I got the idea from one of these threads.
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Interesting... is it an eye sore?

VassagoX said:
Interesting... is it an eye sore?
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Click to collapse
I don't think so. I can try to post Picture later
Sent from my SPH-D700 using XDA

I recommend the stock mount for the Epic 4G. It does get hot sometimes, but it has an 2.5mm socket for audio that you can run into the aux input on your car stereo and it activates car mode. I've had it for 18+ months now and haven't had any trouble with it and would be upset if it broke.
I can't remember where I got it (not Samsung), but it's probably not too hard to find.

f0xblade said:
I recommend the stock mount for the Epic 4G. It does get hot sometimes, but it has an 2.5mm socket for audio that you can run into the aux input on your car stereo and it activates car mode. I've had it for 18+ months now and haven't had any trouble with it and would be upset if it broke.
I can't remember where I got it (not Samsung), but it's probably not too hard to find.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I Honestly Recommend Arkon
Sent from my SPH-D700 using xda premium

vwags said:
I use one I made out of a coat hangar that hangs from the ac vent that I got the idea from one of these threads.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
VassagoX said:
Interesting... is it an eye sore?
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Click to collapse
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1209276
I believe post #8 is what he's talking about

Yes that is where I got the idea.
Sent from my SPH-D700 using XDA

Interesting concept. Does it move much?

No surprisingly little. I changed it a little so it squeezes the phone instead of sitting in the holder and I used small vacuum hose to protect the spots that touch the phone. Works well.

Its all on how you make it. There is no play in mine at all. I made mine so you have to slip it up under the top arms, and then rest the it on the bottom arms. then the reverse to get it out... Its very secure and never had to worry about it falling. I drive in Cleveland, so thats saying something.
. I took a fine file and filed and sharp edges made by the pliers. Then after a couple of coats with spray paint, its like I bought it from somewhere. I use no buffers and have marks on my case from my holder.
I've made a few (about 10 or so for a different phones) the key is just to take your time and make every bend as perfect as you can.

I might have to look into this. I have been slightly concerned about the fact mine is in a small case. I'm afraid the official one won't fit too well. I also wasn't actually impressed by the automatic car mode.
XxLostSoulxX, the Arkon ones look pretty nifty. Which one did you get? They have so many!

VassagoX said:
I might have to look into this. I have been slightly concerned about the fact mine is in a small case. I'm afraid the official one won't fit too well. I also wasn't actually impressed by the automatic car mode.
XxLostSoulxX, the Arkon ones look pretty nifty. Which one did you get? They have so many!
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Click to collapse
I haven't purchased one I just know they are pretty durable and a lot have recommended it I ATM can't use one I have stupid ac vents the roll so it pulls down so id have to get one that sticks with a mount.
Sent from my SPH-D700 using xda premium

f0xblade said:
I recommend the stock mount for the Epic 4G. It does get hot sometimes, but it has an 2.5mm socket for audio that you can run into the aux input on your car stereo and it activates car mode. I've had it for 18+ months now and haven't had any trouble with it and would be upset if it broke.
I can't remember where I got it (not Samsung), but it's probably not too hard to find.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have the stock mount for the Epic and love it. It does get kind of hot at times. Especially when sitting in the direct sun light but it's a perfect and snug fit:
http://www.samsung.com/us/mobile/cell-phones-accessories/ECS-M982BEGSTA
I can't remember how much I paid for it, but I searched around and got it for pretty cheap.

I bought a universal vent mount at TJ Maxx for 8 bucks. Works great and the best part is it can rotate to either portrait or landscape.

sugru
I made one like this
http://www.instructables.com/id/Sugru-Dash-Mount-For-Electronics/
cheap and works

Related

[Photos]The car windshield mount I bought off ebay.

My windshield mount arrived today. Just thought I'll share some photos.
it was $7.69 shipped on ebay.
The side clamps can be moved up and down, and dont interfere with the volume buttons. The two small legs at the bottom are attached but can be moved around its pivot. It also has the ability to add a photo behind the phone if you want.
Update:
Tried it out in my car.
The suction cup stick to the glass very well. The phone mounts snugly too.
All buttons are accessible, the n1 can be easily removed by pressing the release button on the bottom. (the left and right clamps move outward by spring action)
12v to micro-usb adapter works as usual. I could connect my 3.5mm to tape adapter and play music off my car speakers
haha I guess you get what you pay for. it looks highly Functionable, although extremely tacky.
The gears on those will wear out pretty quick... based on past experience.
I don't plan on removing/adjusting it often, so it should last.
MintyFloss said:
haha I guess you get what you pay for. it looks highly Functionable, although extremely tacky.
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Click to collapse
I've had one of these for nearly a year now.
It has sufficed for my G!, then HERO and now Nexus.
I have a 3.5mm jack coming out from my A pillar that plugs into the rear of my stereo that allows music to play through the speakers, the sound is excellent.
The holder is as good as the day I got it.
Well worth the money.
added a photo of the n1 sitting pretty.
Wow, that thing is hideous.
I would be embarrassed to have that thing stuck to my windshield
I have a similar kind except it's for the vent.
is that mercury cougar? just lucky guess
leobeau said:
is that mercury cougar? just lucky guess
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
it is
+10
wow lol!!! it looks like optimus prime
i prefer the one i got of ebay
i dont like the mount of yours... i had a lot of those and it was falling off all the time! (propably because of the polish on the dashboard) the clip on this one is pretty steady!
nicandris said:
wow lol!!! it looks like optimus prime
i prefer the one i got of ebay
i dont like the mount of yours... i had a lot of those and it was falling off all the time! (propably because of the polish on the dashboard) the clip on this one is pretty steady!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I like that one
Do you use it already?
I'd get the official Google Nexus One Car Dock if it had 3.5mm out and better speakers
rori~ said:
I like that one
Do you use it already?
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well i'm still waiting for it to arrive! a friend of mine has the same for desire and its pretty steady... i tried pulling it out to see if it was gonna fall and i almost riped off the fins of the ac oups haha
edit* got it used it loved it!!!

Best car dock for otterbox

Any suggestions? I don't want to have to take my phone out of the case to dock it
Sent from my sch-i500 Showcase using XDA app
Anyone had any experience with the kensington k39217us?
Amazon has it for 15.99
Sent from my sch-i500 Showcase using XDA app
No experience with that mount, but some research to share:
That Kensington you listed opens to 2.75" max, which is right at the width of the Otterbox case. The height is listed at 4.1", so the Fascinate should stick off the top a little. IMO, that is a plus if it means the camera can still see out. I'm looking for one to dual-purpose to film video as I drive. My main concern with this one would be how stable it is, since the flexible adjustment will hurt that.
Most universals just don't seem to open wide enough. Another wide jaw option are these:
http://www.arkon.com/Smartphone_Holder.php. But I don't think the camera will be able to see over the high back.
Based on dimensions, I think the clip that came with the Garmin Nuvi 200 series might work. If it does, this opens up a ton of options. Anybody have a Garmin Nuvi 200 Series?
Thanks for the advice, I went ahead and ordered the one I mentioned. I'll post and let you know how it works after I get it
Sent from my sch-i500 Showcase using XDA app
elijahblake said:
Anyone had any experience with the kensington k39217us?
Amazon has it for 15.99
Sent from my sch-i500 Showcase using XDA app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well, I've been using this car adapter for a few days now. It seems to work pretty decent. I've only used the vent mount. It doesn't cover up the camera or buttons so that's cool. I just wish the samsung car charger was a bit longer. I may try and stretch it out to give me more reach.
Sent from my sch-i500 Showcase using XDA app
Link for the car mount?
bL33d said:
Link for the car mount?
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Click to collapse
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B003SE6LD0/ref=oss_product
This is the one I got..
Sent from my sch-i500 Showcase using XDA app
You still liking the case?
I think I'm gonna get one, mainly for use with Torque (I love this app!). I like the Instant MPG gauge to help me squeeze the most out of my 5.4L F-150..
phatboy5015 said:
You still liking the case?
I think I'm gonna get one, mainly for use with Torque (I love this app!). I like the Instant MPG gauge to help me squeeze the most out of my 5.4L F-150..
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
the case or mount?
I'm still using the mount, but i switched to the Seido Active X case.. I like it better..
SupraLance said:
snip...Most universals just don't seem to open wide enough. Another wide jaw option are these:
http://www.arkon.com/Smartphone_Holder.php. But I don't think the camera will be able to see over the high back.
Based on dimensions, I think the clip that came with the Garmin Nuvi 200 series might work. If it does, this opens up a ton of options. Anybody have a Garmin Nuvi 200 Series?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have the Arkon and the camera is not exposed.
I have the Garmin Nuvi 200 but I don't have a case on my phone so can't say for sure if it would work. It looks like it might be a smidgen too big (the clip).
How is the vent mount working out for you? Possible to post a pick of it mounted?
It works fine, it's never fallen. Keeps the phone secure and is very accessible. I'll try to get a pic of my phone mounted in it. My point and shoot died, so i only have my gf's phone which prob. won't be the best pic, but we'll see..
When I had my iPhone 4, I had the Otter commuter case. I tried several mounts before I found this one. Very Sturdy! The one you bought, I already tried it.... complete crap I am sorry......
GPS Mounts, seem to be more thicker and better made... per say
Give this one a whirl:
http://www.tigerdirect.com/applicat...CODE=GOOGLEBASE&cm_mmc_o=VRqCjC7BBTkwCjCECjCE
larry996 said:
When I had my iPhone 4, I had the Otter commuter case. I tried several mounts before I found this one. Very Sturdy! The one you bought, I already tried it.... complete crap I am sorry......
GPS Mounts, seem to be more thicker and better made... per say
Give this one a whirl:
http://www.tigerdirect.com/applicat...CODE=GOOGLEBASE&cm_mmc_o=VRqCjC7BBTkwCjCECjCE
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
well, i haven't had any problems yet, but if i do I'll give this one a shot...
it doesn't get in the way of the buttons?
You could also connect to the cigarette lighter plug:
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0..._m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_r=0S01X07X48K9ABJT13HF
I like the arkon:
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0...&pf_rd_t=101&pf_rd_p=470938631&pf_rd_i=507846
I just got the Kensington in the mail. I haven't driven around yet, but the quality seems very good. I'll find out how good it really works today on the way to work.

Charging dock/cradle

I currently have a htc aria using a charging cradle to charge my phone when I'm home and about to get an inspire soon and was wondering if anyone has tried a this charging cradle for their inspire. I assume the desire hd and the inspire have the exact location for the usb port so it should fit fine? I'm trying to get the same cradle as my aria that would fit the inspire when I get it since the one I have for the aria works great.
Heres what I was looking at from eBay:
http://cgi.ebay.com/USB-Sync-Cradle-Dock-Desktop-Charger-HTC-Desire-HD-/310274079688?pt=PDA_Accessories&hash=item483dc6bbc8#ht_4589wt_763
Looks pretty legit, I too am looking for a solid docking station in the sub $20 range
http://www.amazon.com/Premium-Multi..._1_4?s=wireless&ie=UTF8&qid=1298858717&sr=1-4
Found this if anyone is interested
I wonder if the phone will fit in that cradle if you have a case.....say the otterbox commuter.
bpodz34 said:
http://www.amazon.com/Premium-Multi..._1_4?s=wireless&ie=UTF8&qid=1298858717&sr=1-4
Found this if anyone is interested
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I bought this one... it's sitting here on my desk in the box still... I'm kinda afraid to use it... haha... i'm so afraid it'll screw up my micro usb port. lol
When you decide to try it please let us know
bpodz34 said:
When you decide to try it please let us know
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Here's two photos I just took ... I unpackaged it. I don't like the feel of sliding the device into it, gives me the eebie jeebies hearing the sound. I'm afraid if I bump it that it'll break the usb port inside my phone
So its crap? also is it overly tight in the dock and is it stable
And what screen protector are you using
bpodz34 said:
So its crap? also is it overly tight in the dock and is it stable
And what screen protector are you using
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Honestly it's what I'd expect for $18 from HKG... I won't use it, I'm going to return it to Amazon. It's snug side to side, but you really have to get it just right to slide down onto the USB adaptor. This is common with any aftermarket dock, and always concerns me that sliding it on and off might damage after a while.
It'd be nice if it were a little better quality, but oh well. I don't like it, and won't be using it.
I have the Zagg invisible shield on the phone. I like it because of the ease of getting replacements if the device is replaced or if I have any issues with it. Got it at best buy for $20, but used a 12% off coupon and a $5 rewardzone certificate, so came in at about $12, which I think you can do better on eBay\Zagg.com lol... I just have instant gratification disorder, hehe
Grr now im off looking for a different dock. Ever since i got one for my iPad i just need them. Its so much simpler to charge =).
bpodz34 said:
Grr now im off looking for a different dock. Ever since i got one for my iPad i just need them. Its so much simpler to charge =).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
For an iPad yeah, but for a phone no. Every time you get a text you either have to pick up the whole dock, or undock it... to hell with that. Cord = better.
bella92108 said:
For an iPad yeah, but for a phone no. Every time you get a text you either have to pick up the whole dock, or undock it... to hell with that. Cord = better.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I was thinking more along the lines of a at night dock, bed side
bpodz34 said:
I was thinking more along the lines of a at night dock, bed side
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Click to collapse
yeah that wouldn't be so bad, this would work for that, so long as you're careful with putting it in and out.
bpodz34 said:
I was thinking more along the lines of a at night dock, bed side
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Did you happen to find any night/bedside/charging docks?
I finally received my cradle in today. Looks like the one I have for the aria, but the fitment is different for the inspire. Feels a bit loose around the sides and looks like there should of been a spot to have a 3.5mm audio jack next to the usb. Stability with the phone on the cradle feels like it is unstable if you touch the screen a lot with the phone on the cradle. It seems ok for what I'm using it for though. I only have it to charge while I sleep so it should be ok as I don't touch it. All in all, it could be better, but gets the job done.
GenEwic said:
I finally received my cradle in today. Looks like the one I have for the aria, but the fitment is different for the inspire. Feels a bit loose around the sides and looks like there should of been a spot to have a 3.5mm audio jack next to the usb. Stability with the phone on the cradle feels like it is unstable if you touch the screen a lot with the phone on the cradle. It seems ok for what I'm using it for though. I only have it to charge while I sleep so it should be ok as I don't touch it. All in all, it could be better, but gets the job done.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Pics pleasee

Built in car mount

So it turns out the TB has a built in car mount. I flipped open the kick stand, tilted up the center vents, slid the kick stand in, and it's like it was made to be. A nice secure car mount in the center of my dash, that magically disappears when I remove it.
Sounds ghetto, but it works. I never liked the car dock apps, and I liked having a big car mount cluttering the joint up even less. Goes great with my self retracting car charger.
Obviously all vent's might not be suited to this.
Hmmm... I'll have to try it but I can't see it being very stable, especially with the weight of the extended battery.
Sent from my ADR6400L using XDA Premium App
pics of it in your car?
Hmmmm interesting
Sent from my android using tapatalk.
Might help with battery drains on a hot day.
Sent from my ADR6400L using XDA App
I would think with the weight of the phone and how far the kickstand is to one side, it would tilt over. Non-issue for me as my vents are vertical on my Infiniti.
akanatrix said:
I would think with the weight of the phone and how far the kickstand is to one side, it would tilt over. Non-issue for me as my vents are vertical on my Infiniti.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have mounted the verizon car dock to the inside of my cubby door on my 2005 g35 coupe. An idea if you have a g35 model w/o nav... its the perfect spot and perfect size
theyownus said:
I have mounted the verizon car dock to the inside of my cubby door on my 2005 g35 coupe. An idea if you have a g35 model w/o nav... its the perfect spot and perfect size
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have a 2008 Infiniti G37S with navigation, not an option for me. ^_^
sounds interesting, ill give this a shot when im out of the office
I did the same in a 07 cts-v on a road trip recently. Only worry is extra wear and tear on the kickstand
dbisch said:
Hmmm... I'll have to try it but I can't see it being very stable, especially with the weight of the extended battery.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah, I doubt it would work with the extended battery.
MoxJr said:
pics of it in your car?
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Click to collapse
Well it is my camera, and I don't think it can take a picture of its self. I might be able to dust off an old phone and snap a shot later. My car is an accord coupe ex-l. The vents lean back just a touch and are about the same size as the phone.
I wouldn't use during a rally car race, but it stays in place nicely on the commute.
Just thought I'd throw it out there for people that don't want to have a dock lying around for the occasional car use.

To «ORB» or not to «ORB», THAT is the question.

This is what it is stopping me from getting the Google ORB for my N4 >
I have a case (and if you don't, I commend you for your bravery). Not only I have a case, I have the Ballsitic Case, the sturdiest of them all, not intended to be taken off and on, on a blink, not at all.
And then I thought> the purpose for the orb is to avoid your self from the hassle of aligning the microUSB plug with the port and all, but if I have a case, what would be faster? To plug a cable to a phone with a case, or to incur on taking a case off in order to "avoid the hassle" of plugging.
It is more work for me to take the case off than it is to plug a micro USB cable, so no ORB for me...
Am I alone?
Imo, you don't need one. It's more of a luxury than anything. But if you like it aesthetically and have the extra dough, why not.
Sent from my Droid DNA
i have the extra dough, and still passed on it. it looks very cool but for me to be truely satisfied i need one for the office, and the house. not worth 140 to fit my want. cables work fine.
as most have said the orb isnt needed but im not gonna lie it looks cool as hell! im still undecided if im gonna drop the dough for it. I also need to confirm if the ringke fusion case will work with it too. so yeah, theres that....
smirkis said:
i have the extra dough, and still passed on it. it looks very cool but for me to be truely satisfied i need one for the office, and the house. not worth 140 to fit my want. cables work fine.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I agree completely here. I would possibly consider a $40 charger but $70 is justification for the hassle of picking up a microUSB and plugging it in.
I have the Zens wireless charger and it works with the ringke slim case. I bought the Zens literally a week before the orb went up for sale. Ain't that a b*tch. I bought the orb anyway to have one at work and at home and to report back on a comparison.
rdelfin said:
This is what it is stopping me to get the google ORB for my N4 >
I have a case (and if you don't, I commend you for your bravery). Not only I have a case, I have the Ballsitic Case, the sturdiest of them all, not intended to be taken off and back on a blink, not at all.
And then I thought> the purpose for the orb is to avoid your self from the hassle of aligning the microUSB plug with the port and all, but if I have a case, what would be faster? To plug a cable to a phone with a case, or to incur on taking a case off in order to "avoid the hassle" of plugging.
It is more work for me to take the case off than it is to plug a micro USB cable, so no ORB for me...
Am I alone?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
wait until other people with the ballstic case have got the orb to confirm whether it works or not before deciding imo
Consider a dock instead. I'm happy with mine thus far. Less than half the price of a Qi charger, almost as convenient, but admittedly less futurist.
I am buying it because I had to replace my last galaxy nexus micro USB port because it went bad. I live in Florida and we have a lot of problems with corrosion. I cant tell you how many ports I've replaced over the years because of that I now have those silicon plugs on almost all my devices ports so I don't have that issue.
Sent from my Nexus 4 using xda premium
Seeing people tell me i am brave for keeping it case less.. Makes me feel... Odd.. I hate cases. Lol
.
Perf_white_gt said:
Seeing people tell me i am brave for keeping it case less.. Makes me feel... Odd.. I hate cases. Lol
.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
+1
Sent from my Nexus 10 using XDA Premium HD app
orb == posing plinth. i'll pass.
Will it reduce battery memory due to heat generated?
Sent from my Paranoid Nexus 4
Ha we're on the same boat. I actually bought the orb the other day and 5 minutes later, I cancelled it because I thought about the case (I also have the Ballistics Case).
Although today I tried to beam with my N7 and it worked, the N7 have the Asus case that Google sells and both N4 and N7 had the case on. So it might still work even with the case on, I'm trying to see if anyone in town (Vegas) bought it so I can try it before buying it again lol.
Sent from my Nexus 4 using xda app-developers app
Look what I got.
Sent from my Nexus 4
luchoster said:
Ha we're on the same boat. I actually bought the orb the other day and 5 minutes later, I cancelled it because I thought about the case (I also have the Ballistics Case).
Although today I tried to beam with my N7 and it worked, the N7 have the Asus case that Google sells and both N4 and N7 had the case on. So it might still work even with the case on, I'm trying to see if anyone in town (Vegas) bought it so I can try it before buying it again lol.
Sent from my Nexus 4 using xda app-developers app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm not sure if the Qi charger works through your case but keep in mind Qi/wireless induction coil has nothing to do with the technology behind beam So you wouldn't know if one would work just based on the fact that the other technology did work.
willshep said:
I'm not sure if the Qi charger works through your case but keep in mind Qi/wireless induction coil has nothing to do with the technology behind beam So you wouldn't know if one would work just based on the fact that the other technology did work.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Charger DOES work through a case. Confirmed.
grubbster said:
Charger DOES work through a case. Confirmed.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
As I would expect, but you never know unless you try
grubbster said:
Charger DOES work through a case. Confirmed.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Could you confirm if the google ORB works with the Ballistic Case specifically? Does the orb hold the phone with this case firmly?
rdelfin said:
Could you confirm if the google ORB works with the Ballistic Case specifically? Does the orb hold the phone with this case firmly?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I do not have that case but this post http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=38033518&postcount=1013 says it does. The orb does not "hold" the phone. It uses mostly friction and possibly some magnetism.

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