iPhone 5 Cases
Hardback homes for the heavily anticipated device
Apple consumers are getting their hands on the hotly anticipated iPhone 5 for the first time today, so it’s time to start thinking about cases. This past week has seen manufacturers releasing prototypes and (in some instances) rolling out production for cases that accommodate the taller, slimmer design. Scouring the selections, we’ve brought together eight makers with designs ranging from aluminum vaults and leather sleeves to 3-D printed webs and plant resin hardbacks.
EXOvault
EXOvault will be releasing two beautiful cases similar to their EXO15 and EXO9 models, which combine elements ranging from wood to aluminum and brass. The prices of the new iPhone 5 case is yet to be determined, but you can act fast and pre-order with a deposit of $100 via EXOvault.
Grove
Employing strictly natural materials, Grove’s new iPhone 5 case upgrades their classic with a stronger, thinner shell made from bamboo and plant fiber composite. Available now for pre-order on their website, Grove is offering the case at a reduced price of $59 until 30 September 2012.
Mujjo
Dutch brand Mujjo produces a stylish sleeve that fuses together hand-dyed leather and minimalist accents to ensure distinction. The iPhone 5 case in brown is smooth, practical and available 10 October 2012. Reserve one now at Mujjo’s website.
Quirky
Community-based product developer Quirky has a selection of customizable cases in many shapes and colors. Each case stands alone, with varying factors like plastic inner lining found in the PLI ($40), the Keeper’s ($35) leather billfold style that act’s as a pocket and a brushed aluminum finish on the Luminum ($35). Created over the course of a few days through a crowd-sourced initiative, the cases are now available for pre-order exclusively at Fab.
Miniot
Based in Holland, Miniot is set to release three new iPhone 5 cases specifically designed to marry functionality and innovation. The Miniot iWood 5 is lightweight and slim, perfect for the frequent traveler. The Miniot Book uses a wooden flap cover that doubles as a stand, and the Miniot Pouch is a simple wooden sleeve. Learn more about the designs and sign up to be notified of the release at Miniot.
Hex
With the release of the iPhone 5, Hex updated their entire line in order to accommodate Apple’s newest addition. Some of their model’s like the Axis have improved features such as a new cash pocket and a cut-out camera hole. The full line will be available 1 October 2012 with prices ranging from around $50 for the Axis model to $30 for the slimmer Core model.
Freshfiber
Masters of the 3-D printed arts, Freshfiber brings a new line of iPhone 5 cases that fuse art and functionality. Drawing inspiration from designers such as Mondrian, each case in the series has a different aesthetic. The cases are now available on their website with pricing starting at €34.
Society 6
In anticipation of the iPhone 5’s release, Society 6 launched a new case with work from their featured artists, with an especially jazzy selection coming from Vasare Nar. Designed to lay flat with a hard shell and a soft silicon interior for protection, this colorful series is a great way to both protect and personalize your phone. The cases are now available on Society 6’s website for $35 in a wide variety of designs.
