Database Info

REVIEW: BodyGuardz "Full body" Skin

So I decided to purchase a full-body skin for my G2 after deciding I disliked all of the cases I'd tried for it. Didn't even fancy the Otterbox. I was going to get the StealthGuard one considering its price (or lack thereof), but apparently they're no longer available... so I went hunting on Amazon.
I'm not anal about the aesthetics of my phone, I'm more concerned about its proper function, so between this skin and the sleeve I put my phone in when it's in my pocket (the old G1 case, it fits the G2 perfectly if any of you guys have your old G1 accessories lying around anywhere), I don't think anything physically will be breaking on the phone anytime soon.
The selling point for me was that it came with 2 full skins. Knowing me, I was going to screw up at least one piece (and that I did!), so I didn't want to deal with contacting BodyGuardz and having them ship me replacement.
Here's what you get.
-2 "full-body" (quotes because it isn't really full-body - I will explain)
-little microfiber cloth
-good sized bottle of application solution.
-squeegee, which was basically a credit-card-thickness rectangular piece of plastic. I didn't even use it because I have something better (the hard rubber squeegee ZAGG gives you - much better)
Instructions are slim, you basically have to just know what to do.. not like it's very complicated, though. The provided diagram proved useful in a couple of instances. I was liberal with the application solution and worked from front to back. All of the pieces are relatively accurate to the phone's shape, and the only two corners that are fully exposed are the bottom left and right corners (if you are holding the phone portrait-style, screen facing you).
I also just gave up on the top-front portion that is applied just above the speaker grill. It is too small to be able to bend and stick (at least for me it was). I'm sure if you had a way of clamping it in place until the adhesive set, it would be fine, but I was too impatient.
The back was annoying because there are only two pieces: the battery cover piece, and then another single piece for the entire rest of the back (everything surrounding the battery cover). It was extremely difficult to get this lined up properly as one giant piece. I almost gave up and cut it into separate pieces, but I got it close enough and decided it was fine as-is. If I ever have to re-apply one of these, I will definitely cut it into separate pieces. I would recommend if you buy this skin, you do the same. Save yourself the frustration.
All in all, I'm happy with it. It does what I need it to do and I don't have to deal with additional bulk, which always gets on my nerves when you are using a case. Been two days since I installed it and bubbles are starting to go away and it's becoming more "natural" looking.
Pros:
-2 for 1, if you screw up, you dont have to wait for a replacement
-material gives you some added grip when you're holding the phone
-pieces fit well, despite the fact that it's not a 100% full cover it feels capable of protecting your phone from bumps and bruises with the exception of the two corners mentioned
-retains the sweet G2 stock look
-no bulk! doesn't affect z hinge function.
Cons:
-install of surrounding back piece and front top pieces are pull-your-hair-out frustrating.
-material is VERY prone to collecting smudges and fingerprints, especially if you have perpetual clammyhands like me.
-"glossy" look may be a turn-off for some people
-despite claims, it's not full-body protection
-~$30 shipped... but since it's 2 for 1, it's not that bad a deal if you ask me.
All in all, I give this product the thumbs up. I've tried numerous cases and finally decided this was a better route, and I feel like I made the right choice. The combination of this skin and my G1 sleeve makes for adequate protection with very little added bulk, just what I needed!
Pics of installed skin on post 3

Waiting for the pics. I might pick one up
Sent from my HTC Vision using XDA App

pics below. disregard any bubbles, they're still disappearing as time passes.. I imagine in a day or two it will be pretty clean looking:
{
"lightbox_close": "Close",
"lightbox_next": "Next",
"lightbox_previous": "Previous",
"lightbox_error": "The requested content cannot be loaded. Please try again later.",
"lightbox_start_slideshow": "Start slideshow",
"lightbox_stop_slideshow": "Stop slideshow",
"lightbox_full_screen": "Full screen",
"lightbox_thumbnails": "Thumbnails",
"lightbox_download": "Download",
"lightbox_share": "Share",
"lightbox_zoom": "Zoom",
"lightbox_new_window": "New window",
"lightbox_toggle_sidebar": "Toggle sidebar"
}

pmcqueen said:
-squeegee, which was basically a credit-card-thickness rectangular piece of plastic. I didn't even use it because I have something better (the hard rubber squeegee ZAGG gives you - much better)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Good thing you didn't use the included "squeegee". I have the Bodyguardz dry type screen protector (screen only, not full protection). I applied it per the instructions using the included squeegee, and got 2 long scratches on the protector. Pretty sure the squeegee had some sharp protrusions on it that caused the scratches. They aren't too bad, and I can live with them. But next time I will use something else, or cover the squeegee with the microfiber cloth as i press the screen protector on (which I have read another user on these forums recommend).
Aside from that, I am overall satisfied with the Bodyguardz screen protector. The surface felt a bit tacky or sticky when sliding my fingers over it. But that seems to have mostly gone away after a couple weeks. As the OP mentioned, they are a bit prone to showing fingerprints, but not as bad a cheaper screen protectors. It adheres well with no air bubbles after careful application.
Good review, BTW. Thanks for taking the time to write it and post the pics.

[Review][+Pics]Seidio Surface Case (w/ Holster)

If anyone can't see these photos, let me know as they are hosted on another forum.
Seidio SURFACE with Metal Kickstand
Pictures are worth a thousand words but there are also times when pictures just can't explain what you are trying to say... so, here's to both!
{
"lightbox_close": "Close",
"lightbox_next": "Next",
"lightbox_previous": "Previous",
"lightbox_error": "The requested content cannot be loaded. Please try again later.",
"lightbox_start_slideshow": "Start slideshow",
"lightbox_stop_slideshow": "Stop slideshow",
"lightbox_full_screen": "Full screen",
"lightbox_thumbnails": "Thumbnails",
"lightbox_download": "Download",
"lightbox_share": "Share",
"lightbox_zoom": "Zoom",
"lightbox_new_window": "New window",
"lightbox_toggle_sidebar": "Toggle sidebar"
}
The Surface case for the Nexus 4 is another prime example of why many people, including myself, love Seidio's cases and holsters.
The Surface Case: Seidio uses a plastic that features a "soft touch" for the case. It's relatively heavy duty case and provides much needed protection for anyone who uses their phone and are unable to "baby it" 24/7. The case slips together seamlessly to provide that added protection. The inside/back portion of the case is felt lined as well to prevent damage or broken glass.
The case is available in Black, White, Garnet Red, Amethyst and Royal Blue.
The cutouts for the ports, buttons, sensors, microphones, etc are all cut perfectly and the case does not interfere with their operation. You cannot access the SIM card tray with the case in place (to my knowledge this is pretty much the same with every case on the market). The camera and flash all function properly and are not impeded. Also, it provides much appreciated lip to the front of the phone that keeps the screen safe when placing the phone face down on a table/desk.
The case allows the phone to feel much more comfortable (both physically and mentally) when using using a shoulder to hold the phone. The best part is that I don't feel like I have to baby the phone or worry about bumping into a table while the phone is in my pocket.
The kickstand... well, I honestly feel like kickstands are a bit gimmicky. That being said I appreciate that this one is metal (not a cheap plastic). It's also spring loaded and held in place by a small magnet. It only works in landscape and does not work in portrait. Ironically, I find myself using the kickstand more times than not!
The case functions fine with SGP screen protector but does not appear like it would play nicely with screen protectors that wrap around the side of the screen. Seidio also sells screen protectors that I'm sure would work fine with their case. I've put the case on/off 25+ times since receiving it and it is holding up fine and has not scratched the chrome trim on my N4
It's worth noting that I do NOT have access to a wireless charger and cannot confirm nor deny if wireless charging functions with this case.
The Holster: I chose to get the option with the holster. The holster is, by far, one of my favorite items from Seidio. When the Surface Case is on the phone, it can be used in combination with the holster to store the phone quickly and easily and SECURELY on your belt. The phone and case snap face-in to the holster to help keep the screen clear from danger. The actual belt clip is heavy duty and swivels and "snaps" into 7 different possible positions so you can keep the holster vertical or horizontal (at either direction). There is also a felt lining on the inside of the holster to help keep your screen scratch free (though while being carried in the holster, the screen doesn't touch anything).
The charging port, volume keys, headphone jack, power key... pretty much everything but the screen... is accessible while the phone is in the holster.
More photos can be found HERE!
Want one? Go get it HERE for $34.95. Want a holster too? Get it HERE for $54.95.
Feel free to let me know if more photos are wanted/needed or if there are any questions. I'll also be working on getting a review up for their Active Case soon for anyone who may be interested.

do you have a QI wireless charger to try if it charges the phone with this case on?
saw a user feedback on Amazon that it interfere the wireless charging.
I like the design of the case, but no wireless charging is a deal breaker.
EDIT: oppss... just saw your comment again, and you did mention you have no wireless charger.

Thanks so much for this review. What a smexy case! I've been thinking of going with a holster type case, but I think I'll hold off till my next phone buy.
RE: the wireless thing, I am not sure if they just now literally added this to their product page, but when I checked just now it says in bold letters:
The SURFACE™ with Metal Kickstand is not compatible with wireless charging.

8_8 said:
Thanks so much for this review. What a smexy case! I've been thinking of going with a holster type case, but I think I'll hold off till my next phone buy.
RE: the wireless thing, I am not sure if they just now literally added this to their product page, but when I checked just now it says in bold letters:
The SURFACE™ with Metal Kickstand is not compatible with wireless charging.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Guess that means I don't have to spend money to find out!

Toru S View Wallet for the Galaxy S4

I looked around and I didn't see this case here. I wanted a wallet case but that also had the S View function. I stumbled across this on Amazon. It looked promising. But it did not live up to my expectations....
First off the packaging was just a small zip lock type bag. Never heard of this company so I'm not surprised the packaging was nothing special. The case itself looks and feels nice.
{
"lightbox_close": "Close",
"lightbox_next": "Next",
"lightbox_previous": "Previous",
"lightbox_error": "The requested content cannot be loaded. Please try again later.",
"lightbox_start_slideshow": "Start slideshow",
"lightbox_stop_slideshow": "Stop slideshow",
"lightbox_full_screen": "Full screen",
"lightbox_thumbnails": "Thumbnails",
"lightbox_download": "Download",
"lightbox_share": "Share",
"lightbox_zoom": "Zoom",
"lightbox_new_window": "New window",
"lightbox_toggle_sidebar": "Toggle sidebar"
}
The phone is held by a TPU case that's like glued in there. I'm concerned the glue will not hold forever. It doesn't feel really solid and pulling on the flap makes me feel like I'm gonna rip the flap off of the TPU case. The TPU case covers everything and leaves cutouts for everything. Never had issues with chargers or headphones or with WatchOn. The flap that holds the credit card feels cheap. It feels like its paper thin. I was able to fit two cards but I felt like it was gonna rip so one card max to be on the safe side
The flap feels solid except for the top part where the S View is at. I haven't owned another S View case/cover so it may be how the S View is but it feels very flimsy. The full cover feels solid but the S View part bends easily and it concerns me for the condition of the case when used a lot
The case looks good on the phone. The magnet latch holds it closed for the most part and the stand works decent
However, the S View is a hit and miss. It does not shut the screen off for the most part. When you simply close it, it will not turn the screen off nor display the S View screen
You need to wiggle around the cover to where it will shut the screen off. It seems as if the cover overlaps the TPU case, it will not work. It seems like the cover needs to be placed on the phone and not on top of the TPU.
On another note, this is about the S View part of the cover. It will not stay perfectly flat. Its so flimsy that it looks like this no matter what I did
Once you find the right spot where the S View will work, you will lose it when you put it in your pocket. When you put it in your pocket and reach in to grab it, it will move the cover around, causing the cover to not be placed on the "sweet" spot where the S View works.
Also when you have one credit card in the case, the S View is COMPLETELY useless. No matter where I moved the cover, no matter how hard I pressed down to try to get the sensors to work, it will not shut off. I see this as a big flaw since it was advertised as an S View wallet case. If I can't use both at the same time, that's a big let down.
Conclusion, is it worth it? I don't know. In my opinion, I wouldn't recommend it. Only because of the issue with the S View not always functioning and the fatal flaw of the S View not working when you have a credit in the slot. I mean for less than $20, I guess my expectations were too high. All I know is I will be returning it as I am not happy with it. Hopefully this review would help someone who's considering this case
Link below if anyone is interested:
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00CWQFKIW/ref=cm_sw_r_an_am_ap_am_us?ie=UTF8
Sent from my SCH-I545 using Tapatalk 2

Thanks for the review was looking into buying this but I'll probably give it a miss now! Just one question though. Is the s view cut out just a hole in the case or is it like the Samsung s view window with clear plastic covering the hole?

I would recommend the Sonivo Sneak Peak Case at the following link :
www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B00CXO9MM8
Judging by its youtube review , the case does seem sturdier than this one.

Ringke [Fusion] Crystal Clear PC Back TPU Bumper Case for the HTC One A9

{
"lightbox_close": "Close",
"lightbox_next": "Next",
"lightbox_previous": "Previous",
"lightbox_error": "The requested content cannot be loaded. Please try again later.",
"lightbox_start_slideshow": "Start slideshow",
"lightbox_stop_slideshow": "Stop slideshow",
"lightbox_full_screen": "Full screen",
"lightbox_thumbnails": "Thumbnails",
"lightbox_download": "Download",
"lightbox_share": "Share",
"lightbox_zoom": "Zoom",
"lightbox_new_window": "New window",
"lightbox_toggle_sidebar": "Toggle sidebar"
}
Hey A9'ers, this is something to check out if you are looking for a nice clear case to show off your A9. This is a review for the FUSION-CRYSTAL VIEW option that's available for $9.99 on Amazon. I have been using it for 2 weeks now. I wanted a clear and minimal case to show off my Deep Garnet A9. I was skeptical about it being made of TPU since I didn't want that tacky/soft/cheap feeling on some TPU cases, and this product did not disappoint.
COMPONENTS:
+1 case
+1 plastic screen protector with instruction manual
+1 DIY template
DESIGN:
The FUSION-CRYSTAL VIEW is very transparent (no frosting) and does a good job in minimizing any sort of obstruction to view through the case.
It fits like a glove; there is nothing loose nor any gaps. Snapping the phone into the case was easy and did not distort the case/phone in any way as I take it in and out of the case (I first slide the top half of the phone into the top corners and then gently push the bottom half of the phone into the case). There's an outer and inner protective film on the case that needs to be removed before using the case, which I respect Ringke for doing to ensure the case doesn't get marked during the delivery process. But be warned that after the protective films are removed, the back panel of the case attracts dust like a magnet and you will need an airduster spray to minimize it before putting the phone into the case.
A small bit of weight is added with the case on but not terribly so. It is minimal enough to slide it in and out of my slim fitting jeans (i don't wear skinny jeans) with ease.
The volume and power buttons are covered (which I prefer) and it was easy to click them. The buttons feel tactile too, which means there is that nice "click-y" sound. One edge of the buttons do feel a bit sharper than the other edges, but that's a minor complaint.
Despite what the description says on Amazon's and Ringke's official website, only the audio jack has a dust cap and there is NO dust cap on the charging port, which I prefer.
The cutouts for the speaker, mic, charging port, and camera lens are very precise and nothing to complain about. My audio plug can easily insert into the audio jack with no problems. There is a bit of a lip around the cutout of the camera lens so that it doesn't touch the surface.
There is a bezel but it's very minimal (about 1 mm) so some may want to consider putting on a screen protector. I don't intentionally slide my screen on any surface, so I have decided to forgo the use of a screen protector as I don't like the look of my screen when there is any type of screen protectors on it and I trust the Gorilla glass, but that's my vain opinion.
On the back of the case, there is a bit of a raised lip near each corner that's also about 1 mm. I suspect this is meant to minimize scratches on the back.
The case provides a better grip on the slippery A9 and gives me more confidence in taking it out of my pocket/purse. It helps to round out feel of the phone's edge which I thought was a bit too sharp in the hand.
There's a strap holder on the lower left side to hold charms and whatnot.
The appearance of fingerprints and dust is very noticeable on the case, but is easy to wipe away.
DURABILITY:
I have not encountered any uh-oh moments yet with this case on. On first impression, it appears it can protect the corners and edges well, but there won't be any protection if the phone was to fall screen side down first due to the case's tiny bezel.
-to be continued later-
OVERALL:
I am quite satisfied with the design/aesthetics of the clear case so far. Its strengths include: high transparency to show off the A9, minimal bulk, perfect fit, easy to take the phone in and out of case, better grip, precise cutouts, and tactile buttons. Its weaknesses include: too little bezel protection on the screen and the easy appearance of dust. More remarks on the durability and protection will come later when I have an uh-oh moment.
Let me know if you want to see more pics :victory:
Edit: Here's the video review to go with it.

Pierre Cardin Leather Case Review!

So I recently decided that even though my S7 is my daily driver, I wanted a nice leather case for my Note 4. I've actually looked for leather cases for the Note 4 since I got it back in October of 2014, but I could never find anything good. Recently though, I've found the Pierre Cardin leather case, and I really like it a lot!
They say it's genuine leather; it feels really good in the hand. It's not too slippery, and it's not to stiff. Protection wise, it's nothing special because it's one of those cases you just slip the phone into that doesn't have top/bottom protection. For me, though, I'm really careful with my phones so I don't need/want a lot of bulk. This case is thick enough and covers the corners enough that I'm sure if it dropped, it would still be ok. All access to the ports/s-pen work fine.
{
"lightbox_close": "Close",
"lightbox_next": "Next",
"lightbox_previous": "Previous",
"lightbox_error": "The requested content cannot be loaded. Please try again later.",
"lightbox_start_slideshow": "Start slideshow",
"lightbox_stop_slideshow": "Stop slideshow",
"lightbox_full_screen": "Full screen",
"lightbox_thumbnails": "Thumbnails",
"lightbox_download": "Download",
"lightbox_share": "Share",
"lightbox_zoom": "Zoom",
"lightbox_new_window": "New window",
"lightbox_toggle_sidebar": "Toggle sidebar"
}
The stitching on the back looks cool; it's a very bright brown almost white stitching that runs up and down the back, and around the camera. The brand name Pierre Cardin is punched into the back at the bottom, along with a logo.
There is a nice small lip that runs around the bezel so that you can easily put the phone face down without having to worry.
The cutouts on the side for power and volume are shaped well and easily accessible.
All in all, this is a really cool case. It feels nice, it fits the phone nice, and I think it's gonna be the case I'm going to keep on the note for a while! Mine is the brown color, which as you can see in pics isn't as super bright as the pics on amazon. The red is also REALLY nice; I actually got the red for my mom's Note 5 which I'll be doing a review soon for as well...but I think I might end up doing the red for my GS7!
check it out on amazon:
http://www.amazon.com/Pierre-Cardin...&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o01_s00
all high res pics of above are located here:
http://imgur.com/a/6uDop

Looks nice but I prefer to have a case that offers better protection than that.

I'm using this case for about 6 months now. While it's a great case and adds to the look, it is sensitive to heat - the edges where the leather meets the satin-like insides tend to come off if your phone heats up (optimizing 350 apps after flashing Xposed or playing a demanding game...). The colour of the leather also tends to get darker, though it doesn't look bad at all even when it gets dark.
The case is essentially a plastic inner with leather-like outer and satin-like soft inner material, so it won't stand much of a fall - I managed to drop the phone once, and the bottom right corner of the case is now broken.
Also, the heart rate sensor seems to have a problem with this case, the readings or erratic with it on (or I have too big a finger than what this case expects!).
All of that said, I'll definitely recommend this case - I got it from Amazon.in for about $13.50 (~INR 900), but considering that it looks like it won't last a year for me, I'd pick it for ~INR 500 if it comes on an offer/ discount.

ph03n!x said:
I'm using this case for about 6 months now. While it's a great case and adds to the look, it is sensitive to heat - the edges where the leather meets the satin-like insides tend to come off if your phone heats up (optimizing 350 apps after flashing Xposed or playing a demanding game...). The colour of the leather also tends to get darker, though it doesn't look bad at all even when it gets dark.
The case is essentially a plastic inner with leather-like outer and satin-like soft inner material, so it won't stand much of a fall - I managed to drop the phone once, and the bottom right corner of the case is now broken.
Also, the heart rate sensor seems to have a problem with this case, the readings or erratic with it on (or I have too big a finger than what this case expects!).
All of that said, I'll definitely recommend this case - I got it from Amazon.in for about $13.50 (~INR 900), but considering that it looks like it won't last a year for me, I'd pick it for ~INR 500 if it comes on an offer/ discount.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
interesting! i shall keep note of all of these issues you had. i just did the heart rate scanner and it worked fine, so on mine, it doesn't get in the way.