iPad Case Review: OtterBox Defender Series

Holy iPad! It’s the Batman of all iPad cases! That’s right, the OtterBox Defender Series iPad case has arrived. It’s super strong and tough, and has three layers of protection. Try to get through this case evil doers!

But with all silliness aside, this case is the most protective case I’ve seen yet. It looks very stylish and is quite multi-functional too. There’s enough layers of protection to impress even your iPad!

The first and inner-most layer is the slide and snap-on polycarbonate shell. Remove the upper piece and slide your iPad in. This polycarbonate piece is lined with a velvety material to keep your iPad scratch-free within the case. The bottom half of this case is removable so you can use your iPad Keyboard (or stand) with the case on. The removable piece also makes it easy to charge the iPad without removing the entire case. Simply slide the lower piece on and off when needed. Another nifty feature of this layer is the clear round plastic around the Apple logo, making it visible, yet keeping it scratch-free.

The next layer of protection is a durable silicone skin that wraps around the entire case. Every part around the edge of the iPad is covered by silicone, including the buttons and ports. If you need to use the headphone jack, simply pull out the silicone covering to use. This feature keeps the port dust-free when not in use. The orientation lock button is also covered in a similar way. Simply pull out to access the toggle switch. As for the volume and on/off buttons, you can simply press on them to access the features. There are cutouts where the speakers are, so the audio of the iPad is not compromised in the case.

The last layer of protection is a fun one. It’s the shield that you snap on top of the case to protect the display area when not in use. It makes a nice travel case if you need to toss it in a backpack or suitcase. But when you are using the iPad, this shield can convert into an iPad stand! On the interior of the shield are two slanted pieces that pull up to create a stand. Slide in your iPad (with case) on and viola, you have yourself a nice little iPad TV set. It’s very convenient when you need the iPad to be in a viewing position. The iPad will only fit in landscape mode, and the angle cannot be adjusted (~45 degree angle). And when you don’t want to use the stand, you can snap the shield onto the back of the case for more heavy-duty protection.

The one downside to this case is that it’s very heavy. It adds an additional 1.3 pounds to the iPad (with the shield on), but you can’t expect less from an indestructible case! Because of the weight, it’s not ideal for reading in long periods of time. The other downside is that it costs about 1/5 of the device. It’s a bit steep for an accessory, but the materials used are high quality if you can look pass these drawbacks. So prepare to put your iPad in the toughest case available on the market today!

In addition to the case and front shield, the package also comes with a cleaning cloth, squeegee, and screen protector, which is at least an additional $15 value.

The Otterbox iPad Defender Series Case is available in black for $89.95. You can purchase it at OtterBox.com.

Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars · $89.95 · OtterBox.com · Purchase on Amazon ($50.29)

Disclosure: This product was sent by OtterBox for review purposes. This is part of Beatweek Magazine’s coverage of iPad products. Opinions expressed in this article are my own.

Popularity: 3% [?]

14 Bargain Apps for your iPad and iPhone!

Here are 14 bargain iPhone and iPad apps that will surely add some fun to your devices!

Scrabble – word game addicts, get this before the price goes up! It’s Hasbro’s classic word game right on your iPhone. Play against the computer, your friend next to you, or even your Facebook friends. Add up points and aim to get the triple letters and triple words all across the board. The person with the most points at the end wins! But hurry, this sale won’t last long! You can play the free version as a Facebook app. iPhone Version (99 cents)

Where’s Waldo – This app brings me back to my childhood when Where’s Waldo books were all the craze. The iPhone version is just as much fun! Search for Waldo and his friends in various scenes. You’ll find them in the funniest places!
iPhone Version (99 cents) | iPad Version ($2.99)

Diner Dash: Grilling Green is the first time management game made specifically for the iPad. If you enjoy the Diner Dash series, this one is a must-have. Many new features have been added for the new multi-touch options. Not only are we waiting tables, you have to keep the customers happy and also help grandma with the cooking. Talk about multi-tasking! The game is normally $4.99, but is on sale for a limited time for $2.99. iPad Version ($2.99)

Hexalex – Another word game that will keep you on the edge of your seat. This board is a bit different though. Instead or square pieces, you’re putting pieces down on a hexagon board. Words can go down, sideways, or even diagonally. Play against the computer, or up to four people. iPhone Version ($1.99)

Jojo’s Fashion Show 2 – This one is for the fashion addicts! Create various outfits for your models and send them out on the runway. Be sure to dress them up in the style asked by the judges. Do it quickly to progress to the next round! Full game is free for a limited time.
iPhone Version (Free) | iPhone Lite Version (Free)

Fotopedia Heritage – Travel around the world and back in this wonderful little app. It’s an amazingly beautiful way to navigate, explore, and discover the 890 UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Swipe to see a new photo from around the world. Tap on the ‘i’ icon to read more about the location. It really is like a Wikipedia with photos! It’s also universal and absolutely free! Universal Version (Free)

Pinball HD – If you’re an avid pinball fan, this is a must-have! The game features 3 pinball tables — Wild West, The Deep. and Jungle Style. Each table has its unique gameplay. Plays in both landscape or portrait mode. The graphics on the iPad version could be more clearer, but it’s definitely worth the sale price for this week! Normally $2.99, both the iPhone and iPad versions are 99 cents. iPad Version (99 cents) | iPhone 4 Version (99 cents)

Color Stream – If you’re a designer, you may be interested in this app. It’s a nifty color palette tool. You can take photos in the app and it’ll pick out 5 colors from the photo for you and give its hex numbers. Very simple to use and no need to pull out Photoshop to take a screenshot. This app was $2.99, but is currently on sale for free! I also linked a lite version in case the price goes up when you read this article. iPhone Version (Free) | iPhone Lite Version (Free)

The Crystals of Atlantis Deluxe – It’s very similar to other match-3 games that you played before. Goal is to make crystal matches so your historical artifact pieces fall down to the lower level. Special power-ups are given for matches of 4 or more. Gorgeous graphics; a definite must-download! iPhone/iPod Touch Version (99 cents)

Paperless Lite: Lists + Checklists – here’s a beautiful way of keeping lists and checking them off. Add a cute little icon for each type of list. Very simple and. Straight-forward. Free version allows up to 15 items in a list, paid version allows more. Try it out for free!
iPhone Lite Version (Free) | iPhone Version ($1.99)

Price is Right – Never been a contestant on Price is Right? But now you can with this app! See how well your know your prices and play various games to get to the showcase showdown! New in this version is customization of your player’s avatar. It was $4.99 but is currently on sale for 99 cents! iPhone Version (99 cents)

Pocket Creatures – Here’s a virtual pet you can carry around with your on your iPhone, iPod Touch, or even iPad! Teach, play, and explore the world with your new virtual pet. Normally $2.99, now on sale for 99 cents.
Universal Version (99 cents)

Zombie Infection – Action-adventure game where you fight your way through hordes zombies. Amazingly realistic graphics that’s a must for zombie lovers. Be aware of realistic violence. Game is available on both iPhone and iPad platforms. Normally $6.99, this is a sale too hot to miss! iPad Version (99 cents) | iPhone Version (99 cents) | iPhone Lite Version (Free)

Super Monkey Ball 2: Sakura Edition – Your favorite monkeys are on the loose again! Keep your monkeys rolling in orbs as you collect bananas and race to the finish line. Mini-games include Monkey Base, Monkey Target, Monkey Golf, and Monkey Bowling. Have an endless fun time with this accelerometer game! This iPad game was $14.99 but is now on sale for $3.99. iPad Version ($3.99) | iPhone Version ($2.99)

Popularity: 4% [?]

iPad Bag Review: NewerTech iFolio

You know those briefcases that business people carry with them to the office? Now there’s one made specifically for the iPad. It’s called the iFolio from NewerTech. It’s handcrafted here in the US from imported premium Brazilian leather. This little luxury item is a perfect fit for the business types.

The iFolio can be used in two ways. You can use the shoulder strap and wear it on one side. This is nice if you need to keep your hands free. The bag hangs right next to your side and feels very sturdy and lightweight. You can also remove the shoulder strap and convert it into a handheld case by holding the strap on its spine. I find the latter way to be convenient when you take your iPad to a meeting. It just gives the professional touch.

The case is held together with a zipper. Unzipping it will reveal a very business-like setup. To the left are compartments for various things. One compartment is for papers or a small notepad and there are also two credit card/identification/business card slots. In the center is a loop for a pen. I think this is the perfect place for an iPad stylist! On the right side is where you iPad would go.

The iPad is held together by four flexible leather straps. Putting your iPad in may be a little tricky at first, but is easy once you get the hang of it. Be sure to put the iPad into the top straps first. These ones are more fixed. Then put the lower right strap on next, and then the lower left strap. The lower left strap is wider, so it’s more flexible to reach the edge of the iPad. The one thing I noticed is that these four straps aren’t symmetrical or evenly sewn on the case. Also, the fourth strap is much wider than the other three. This was a bit odd, but they did their job well, which was holding the iPad firmly in place.

Once the iPad and your belongings are in place, just zip and go. I think this folio is more of a carrying case for the iPad and is not meant to be used on a desk. Typing from your lap is fine, but putting the case with the iPad on a table may not be the best way to use it. The cushions of the case get in the way. Fortunately, the leather straps can be stretched to hold the iPad along with a NewerTech NuGuard case in it for less formal use.

If you do not have many things to take with you, this is a very beautiful case to carry your iPad in. But if you’re like me and like to carry your keys, wallet, and phone with you, you may want to carry a smaller second bag.

Overall, the iFolio gives off a professional look and feel to those you rare carrying it. It’s classic design will attract business men and women alike. Although it may be beautiful and luxurious, there are some downsides including the uneven straps holding the iPad, lack of extra space and storage, and the high price to pay. The case does come with a lifetime warranty, which is very assuring.

The iFolio is available in a big assortment of colors — black, red, cream, dark red, yellow, orange, lite green, dark green, blue, cognac, and tan. The price range from $129.99 – $179.99 depending on the color. You can purchase it at NewerTech.com.

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars · $129.99 – $179.99 · NewerTech.com

Disclosure: This product was a 2-month review unit sent by NewerTech for review purposes. This is part of Beatweek Magazine’s coverage of iPad products. Opinions expressed in this article are my own.

Popularity: 3% [?]

Top Bargain iPhone and iPad Apps for August!

Need some new apps for your iPhone and iPad? Here are some free and bargain apps you need to know about!

James Cameron’s Avatar for iPad – Enter the beautiful, yet dangerous world of Pandora. The game takes place two decades prior to the movie and you get to be the first experimental avatar. Experience your new powers in your new body as you and the Na’vi become one. The graphics are just amazing and is like watching the movie as you play. Definitely worth every penny. Once $9.99, this beautiful game is now only 99 cents, so get it before the sale is over. The iPhone/iPad version is not on sale, but there is a lite version you can try. The game is huge, so be sure you’re on wifi before downloading. iPad Version (99 cents) | iPhone/iPod Touch Version ($4.99) | iPhone/iPod Touch Lite Version (Free)

Vevo – stream and watch full music videos right to your iPhone or iPod Touch! Also view videos of your favorite artists and conviently purchase the songs and videos from iTunes. You can also learn fun trivia about your favorite artists. It’s currently iTune’s pick for App of the Week and is the perfect app for for the music lovers. iPhone/iPod Touch Version (Free)

GetGlue – checking into things is all the craze now. It’s been applied to geolocation, but here’s a new idea. Why not check into things, such as the show or movie you’re currently watching, or the song you’re listening to, or even what you’re thinking about? That’s GetGlue for you. Check into your favorite things and share them with your friends. You can leave reviews and comment on your friends check-ins as well. Connect your Twitter and Facebook accounts to easily find friends. Best of all, real earn stickers for checking in and leaving reviews. Once you earned a lot, send a request to have your stickers mailed to you. Pretty nifty! iPhone/iPod Touch Version (Free)

RedLaser – Quickly scan barcodes to find out what the item is and the best place to purchase it. Search results return a list of stores/websites where you can purchase the items starting from the lowest price to highest. So find the best deal and shop away!
iPhone Version (Free)

FoodSpotting 2.0 – Foodies rejoice! If you love taking pictures of food, you’re not alone. Join the community of Foodies called FoodSpotting! Take photos of food, post your reviews, and share with your friends. This updated app makes it easy to upload and view yours and your friends’ activities. Check it out for yummy goodness! Feel free to add me as a friend on FoodSpotting and share food tips! iPhone Version (Free)

Magic Pictures HD – View amazingly beautiful photos scroll by as you interact with the scene. Images scroll either up and down or sideways depending on the photo. Use your fingers to interact with the particles (could be snowflakes on a winter scene or water droplets on an ocean scene) and move pieces around. Options include interacting with moving particles, listening to relaxing ambient sounds, and a digital clock. The collection currently includes 106 high resolution photos, taken by Tobias Tomsch. It’s a must-have for photography enthusiasts and makes the perfect digital frame. It’s specially priced now for just 99 cents! iPad Version Only (Free)

DailyBooth App – This app is great for you DailyBooth-ers out there. DailyBooth is a community of users who take random photos of themselves everyday. And friends can comment back with a photo (or text). It’s very similar to Twitter, except with photos! The interface still needs work, but it’s really nice for Version 1.0. Before the app, you would need to email your photo and it’ll appear on the website. Now with the app, simply select and upload. You can also see your recent replies and your friends latest activities and photos. It’s a must-have if you’re part of the DailyBooth community. iPhone Version (Free)

Discover — Wikipedia in a Magazine is a great app for browsing Wikipedia. Discover new and fun information everyday in a beautiful interface. Data is pulled from the Wikipedia website but is displayed in a fun interactive magazine. View in portrait-mode for a magazine-like experience, and landscape-mode for a more book-like experience. The app requires a data connection to work and saves your search and viewing history so you can get back to older articles. Definitely a fun app if you want to discover new and interesting things. iPad Version Only (Free)

City Story is a cute new game where you build your own city, adding shops, houses, parks, factories, and more! Make money by producing goods from the factories. Share you city with your friends by creating a free Storm8 account. It’s similar to games like We Rule and Sim City. The game is free and universal. The one thing I find lacking in this app is the social part. There’s a login system called Storm 8, and you can invite your friends on Facebook, but it’s not enough to tap into all the friends I have on other gaming systems. Universal (Free)

Popularity: 3% [?]

Twitter the Movie

If you saw the trailer to “The Social Network,” you’ll greatly enjoy this Twitter parody video (also embedded above).

More Info:

If Hollywood can make an overly dramatic film about the early years of Facebook, why can’t we make an overly dramatic movie about Twitter? Or at least the trailer to that movie! Check out the exclusive (parody) trailer for “The Twit Network” right here on Rated Awesome!

Huge thanks to the Gregory Brothers for creating the “I can Tweet” song that plays in the background. Check out more of their stuff and download the full song here.

Gregory Brothers Youtube

Popularity: 1% [?]

iPad Sleeve Review: My Green Monkey Designs

Want a fun and creative way to carry your iPad? You can be green at the same time too! Check out these lovely iPad sleeves from My Green Monkey Designs. These eco-friendly cases are examples of craftiness with a professional touch. Each sleeve is handmade from recycled clothing and fabric remnants, and individually designed, so no two are alike!

The one in particular that I’m reviewing is made of a man’s blue shirt and matching tie. The sleeve is made with a huge pocket in front, perfect for a small papers, cards, and a few small necessities. The main compartment is especially designed for the iPad. It includes a thick soft line to prevent any scratches and cleans your iPad as you slide it in. On the back is an actual pocket from the man’s shirt, a perfect place for your iPhone! And to tie it all together is a man’s tie, held together with a giant button on the front of the sleeve. It just doesn’t get any craftier than this!

Overall, I can tell this sleeve was made with lots of love and care. If you want something definitely unique and different for your baby (iPad), be sure to take a look at My Green Monkey Designs. I’m sure you’ll find something fun and inspirational. Check back often as iPad cases sell out quickly and new ones are added! iPad sleeves and cases range from $19 – $45, depending on style, material, and type.

Ratings: 4 out of 5 stars · $19 – 45 · My Green Monkey Designs

Disclosure: This product was sent by “My Green Monkey Designs” for review purposes. This is part of Beatweek Magazine’s coverage of iPad products. Opinions expressed in this article are my own.

Popularity: 2% [?]

iPad App Review: Art in Motion

Imagine painting beautiful artwork and setting it to motion. You start with creating a scene, the interactive “painting” that you play with. Instead of painting landscapes or portraits, you add orbs that contain their own unique properties. These orbs are colorful circles that you can edit, from color, to movement, to size and elasticity. So customize away! The magic happens when your fingers touch the screen.

See the demo and read the rest of the review on GeekBeat.TV.

Popularity: 1% [?]

iPad Stand Review: Just Mobile UpStand

The Just Mobile UpStand^TM is a beautiful iPad stand — the kind that belongs in a fancy department store or something of that nature. It’s looks elegant with and without the iPad on it.

The UpStand is made of solid aluminum and has three parts to it. The bottom part is perfectly round, 6″ in diameter, and lined with a non-slip rubber material to hold the stand in place and prevent it from slipping. The stand part is made of two aluminum rods that supports the grips (the part that holds the iPad). The grips, which looks like a compass, is lined with a a thin rubber material to prevent any scratches on the iPad.

The UpStand holds the iPad in the perfect angle for watching movies or tapping around on your favorite game. If you have a wireless keyboard, it makes a nice monitor stand for typing up papers. You can also set it by your bedside and use it as an alarm clock, or in the kitchen as use it like a recipe book. There are many ways to use it!

The UpStand’s grip can hold the iPad along with most cases. That’s convenient since you don’t have to remove the case every time you use the stand.

The only disadvantage to this kind of stand is that it’s not that portable. It’s one solid piece that’s not compact for travel or packing. But a beautiful piece like this is not really meant to be moving around so much. It’s a nice stand to find a permanent place in your home, whether it be the kitchen or in your home office.

The UpStand is both practical and stylish and I’m sure you’ll find a place for it in your home. You can find more information on the Just Mobile UpStand Just-Mobile.comIn you’re in the U.S., you may purchase the UpStand at MacinBag.com.

Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars · $49.95 · Just-Mobile.com

Disclosure: This product was sent by Just-Mobile for review purposes. This is part of Beatweek Magazine’s coverage of iPad products. Opinions expressed in this article are my own.

Popularity: 2% [?]

iPad Bag Review: Kensington Sling Bag

If you want a bag to carry your iPad without the excess bulk, consider the Kensington Sling Bag. Small yet roomy, this bag is heavily padded, keeping your iPad (or netbook) safe and sound.

The bag has a main dual zipper compartment. Within this compartment are three sections. The first being the heavily padded side which is for the iPad (or netbook up to 10.2″). On the top is a Velcro strap that holds your device in place. The second section is where you can put all of your other various necessities. This section is big enough to fit another iPad or netbook (but I wouldn’t suggest it because of the weight). And the third section is a small zipper pouch to put smaller things.

There is also has a zipper compartment in front. On the inside of this compartment, there’s a small Velcro pocket that fits an iPhone (or mobile device) perfectly. The other side is deeper — perfect for your keys, wallet, makeup, or other little things.

Since this is a sling bag (one strap for carrying), you can slide the bag from your back to the front very easily. This makes it convenient when you need to pull out your devices, or get something quickly from your bag. The adjustable Velcro strap allows you to wear the bag comfortably, no matter how tall or short you are.

One drawback on the bag is, the more items you carry in it (the more weight), the more the strap will pull across your chest. This may not be a big deal, but it does get uncomfortable if you’re a woman. So it’s best to keep the bag to lightweight items.

Another thing that would make the bag more comfortable to wear is a padded shoulder strap. If you put your iPad in it, I would recommend not carrying this bag for more than an hour. The way the bag is designed, it could only be worn on your left shoulder. So the weight may be bothersome after a period of time.

Overall, the Kensington Sling Bag is great choice if you want to carry your iPad, iPhone, and a few things around. The size of the bag makes it really convenient to take anywhere. And you really can’t beat the price of under $20!

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars · $19.99 · Kensington.com

Disclosure: This product was sent by Kensington for review purposes. This is part of Beatweek Magazine’s coverage of iPad products. Opinions expressed in this article are my own.

Popularity: 3% [?]

iPad Bag Review: Cocoon Innovations Harlem Sling

Every geek has gadgets. Finding ways to carrying them around may sometimes be a hassle. But there’s a great solution. Meet the Cocoon Innovation Harlem Sling bag. It’s slim and lightweight, yet can fit most of your gadgets and personal belongings. As an added bonus, it’ll keep them organized as well.

There are three main zipper compartments in this bag. The largest is the back pocket that allows you to slip your iPad/netbook in easily. It’s large enough to hold your iPad with the thickest case out there, or a 10″ netbook. It’s lightly padded on the back so both you and your device are comfortable when you’re traveling.

On the front of the bag is a small media zipper pocket. This can fit an iPhone or media player in it. Next to the pocket is a small hole that you can thread your headphones though, which makes listening to music very convenient.

The third zipper compartment is large enough for the rest of your things. There’s a built-in divider where you store and separate your credit cards, pens, and little items. In addition to all the great space, this bag also comes with a Cocoon Innovation’s unique GRID-IT!^TM system. It’s their signature organization system made of rubberized woven elastic. This piece allows you to further organize your personal belongings into a neat little grid. Attach your headset, gadgets, second phone, cables, wires, chapstick, ID cards, markers, gum, mints, lotion bottle, shampoo, and more. The system is designed to hold your belongings firmly in place.

This bag is held together with an adjustable cross-body strap which reminds me of a seatbelt. The strap doesn’t have extra padding on it, but it does feels very comfortable on the body even after a long period of time. The weight in the bag is distributed evenly, so you don’t feel to heavy on any one side.

Overall, the bag is designed very nicely. Not only does it keep your iPad or netbook safe, you can carry all of your other important things in it as well. Simply slide the bag to your side and your belongings are conveniently within reach. Although the bag is small, this doesn’t compromise its ability to organized and quite functional. That’s what makes this bag stand out.

The only improvement I can suggest for this bag is the addition of some extra padding on the strap. But other than that, I feel this bag is perfect for geeks on the go.

The Cocoon Innovation Harlem Sling is available in three colors — Black, Gun Gray, and Racing Red. Considering that the GRID-IT!^TM system alone will cost you about $10, the price for this bag is really good. You can purchase it for $54.99 at Cocoon Innovations. Rated 5 our of 5 stars.

Disclosure: This product was sent by Cocoon Innovations for review purposes. This is part of Beatweek Magazine’s coverage of iPad products. Opinions expressed in this article are my own.

Popularity: 3% [?]

New Spice – Study like a Scholar

I work in a library, so seeing this video inspired by an Old Spice commercial is amazingly hilarious to me!

(Original YouTube link)

To see how they made this video, see their blog.

Popularity: 1% [?]