A Closer Look At Apple's iPhone 4 Bumper Case

When Steve Jobs unveiled iPhone 4, he also introduced Apple's $29 Bumper Case. This anti-case of sorts, which is more like the thong underwear of protective iPhone fashion, is made from a combination of rubber and molded plastic.

The Bumper is designed to protect the metal banding on iPhone 4 from scarring. While the obvious overhang is aimed at keeping the iPhone's ultradurable, scratch resistant glass from shattering.

Apple claims that the aluminosilicate glass featured on both sides of iPhone 4, is the same type of glass used in the windshields of helicopters and high-speed trains. It's strengthened to be 20 times stiffer and 30 times harder than plastic and also recyclable.

Early adopters can pick from one of six colors including, pink, orange, green, blue, white and black. Expect other case makers to quickly knock off Apple's bumper design to sell at a cheaper price point.

What I like most about the look of the Bumper case, is that it succeeds at showing off the new iPhone 4 with the least amount of coverage necessary to protect the device.

Adding a full body Invisible Shield by Zagg, could be a perfect pairing with the Bumper for ultimate scratch protection. But that will cost you an additional $24.95 

   

[Photos by M.I.C. Gadget]

Comments

[Marcus]

Just got my orange Bumper case this morning. I like it a lot until I wanted to sync my iPhone. What the f**ck?! I can't even plug my USB dock connecter without having to take the Bumper off! Can't get a secure connection because the plastic covers the entire perimeter of the dock connector port and it's thick enough that it gets in the way. Hey Apple! What were you guys smokin' when you designed this? This is going back today!

[Fritz B]

i bought the universal dock and the bumper case fits alright with no dock tray.

[Lee S]

Bumper case is NOT compatible with the dock. Just got both today. Dock is going back.

[Samcourtny]

Is the bumper case compatible with the Apple iPhone 4 Dock??

[Mitchell]

@joe I totally agree. give me something clear and I'd do it.

[Joe]

I don't like it. My favorite part of the new iPhone is the metal edges. Cover it up with plastic? Not me.