Image by Witer via Flickr
At the Apple Developer’s Conference, the most groundbreaking announcement was likely the one about the upcoming iPhone 4. This stellar new piece of equipment comes with major upgrades in every sector, including a full operating system update that expands your phone’s capabilities, great new internal hardware, and a sleeker and stronger build for the entire phone. In addition to new materials being used for the iPhone construction, the entire model will be 24 percent slimmer than the iPhone 3. In response to this coming innovation, a number of accessory companies have developed iPhone 4 early bird cases! The only question that remains is whether you should buy them.
Advantages to Buying the Early Bird Cases
There are already a number of great cases on the market like the cricket blackberry that’s just waiting to be purchased. If you purchase now, you will be certain to get the model that you prefer, and you won’t risk it selling out in the rush that will happen just before the iPhone 4′s release. Add to that the fact that these products will be less expensive now than during the release process. Also, purchasing a case now will prepare you for instant use of your iPhone 4. These are all stellar arguments for buying the cases.
Risks of Buying the Early Bird Cases
While it’s true that you can buy these products now for less money, you should also keep in mind that Apple hasn’t necessarily finalized its design. It’s not unheard of in the electronics industry for there to be last minute work that could change the exact size and shape of the final model. Examples of this can be seen in various desktops and laptops that were revised soon before they were released. While this risk is slim, it is possible that the case won’t fit your iPhone as snugly as you would like. Plus, first party accessories are likely to go on sale during the iPhone 4 release process. These first party accessories can be purchased at the same time you get the iPhone 4, so there would be no delays.
The Major Models
If you decide to get one of these early bird cases, then you’ll have your hands full of great options. There are a number of different materials available, including plastic, leather, and rubber. Multicolor cases, single color cases in almost every shade, and cases featuring designs are all easy to find. Among the more interesting design cases are those designed to look like wood, stone, or metal, and those that have more multicolor on black themes, an increasingly popular look in iPod and iPhone accessories.
Where You Can Buy These Cases
While there are some phone accessory stores that will carry these cases immediately, the most reliable place to go is online. Many of the manufacturers allow for direct purchases from their company, several major niche websites provide a solid selection, and online auction sites are already swarming with people who are eager to start selling these products before the iPhone 4 hits the market.
