So much has already been written about the iPhone 5 on the internet. It’s rapidly replaced my iPad as my most used iOS device both at home and at work. The larger screen makes just enough difference when looking at my to-do list in OmniFocus, processing email or checking Twitter that I have been leaving my iPad at my desk more and more. I’m not sure if this is partly novelty value as the newest piece of tech that I own (I suspect that has a little to do with it) but I think there genuinely is a productivity improvement with the larger screen.
Anyway, as with any completely new design for an Apple device, it takes accessory manufacturers a little while to catch up. So when I was offered an Ultimate iPhone 5 accessory pack, I was pleased to give it a try.
The pack contains an iPhone 5 case in the form of a soft plastic gel skin, a pack of 5 screen protectors, a desk stand, windscreen mount, USB car charging adaptor and a mini portable stand. With previous iPhones, I haven’t been a fan of fitting a case for any length of time. The improved protection hasn’t felt like enough of a benefit to warrant the reduced tactile feel of the device along with the increased thickness. However, with the iPhone 5 being so thin, adding a slim case like the one included in this pack means that it’s still thinner than an iPhone 4. Cutouts for the camera, speakers and dock are in the right places, however the volume buttons and power button are a but more difficult to press than I’d like. Not a showstopper but something to be aware of. The back of the case is completely transparent meaning you can still see the aluminium and glass design and Apple logo clearly.
I’m also not normally a fan of screen protectors due to the different feel that you normally end up with instead of the glass, the increased reflectivity and reduced oleo phobic effect. However after scratching the screen on my iPhone 4S, I am prepared to give them another try. I might eventually opt for something a little more expensive than the simple plastic ones included in this kit, but at least there are 5 of them so if you do get it scratched or damaged or you find a bubble in the application process, you can just apply another. The cutouts in the screen protectors are plenty big enough to give you room around the camera, earpiece and proximity sensor at the top and at the bottom, the cutout for the home button is actually a horseshoe shape, making it easier to get it applied without slightly overlapping the button.
The ‘portable’ desk stand is a nice addition, however it’s probably not something I’ll use – I’m waiting for a new Glif when it’s ready for the iPhone 5 due to its smaller size and dual function as a tripod mount. It does attach securely though and gives you multiple viewing angles. It would be useful on a plane or train if you have films or TV shows stored on your phone. It would probably also work for a kindle or smaller tablet device.
The USB car adaptor is pretty straightforward, however it has dual USB ports meaning you can charge two USB devices at a time – you’ll need to bring your own cable though: Apple seemingly haven’t licensed the chip in the new Lightning connector to third party cable makers just yet. The car windscreen mount is one of the better ‘generic’ designs that I’ve seen. It’s very compact when not in use and the vertical/horizontal rotation feature is useful. The suction cup seems secure enough as well and there was minimal vibration when I tested it in the car.
Last up is the desk stand. As Apple haven’t yet released a dock for iPhone 5 (and it seems like they might decide not to), the desk stand is an interesting idea. The aluminium base has a sticky (but non-adhesive) pad that can attach in a horizontal or vertical orientation that grips the back of your phone and holds it in place. Because it’s friction holding your phone in place, it will work with or without a case. The stand could use a bit more weight in the base for my liking but it works well enough and there’s enough clearance for the Lightning cable to be attached so you can charge/sync while using the stand. The design complements an iMac or Apple display pretty well too.
Overall, the Ultimate iPhone 5 accessory pack is a great way for someone looking for a cheap way to grab a pretty decent bunch of accessories. For £19.95, I’d recommend it. Over time, you might want to upgrade a few of the items in there, but until accessory manufacturers catch up, this will give your iPhone all the protection, charging and standing solutions that you need. You can find the Ultimate iPhone 5 accessory pack along with lots of other iPhone 5 cases at MobileFun.