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In search of an iPhone case (photos)

At every CTIA, a whole corner of the show floor is devoted to cell phone cases. Whether you need a durable case or one that's for show, the selection is huge.

Kent German
Kent was a senior managing editor at CNET News. A veteran of CNET since 2003, he reviewed the first iPhone and worked in both the London and San Francisco offices. When not working, he's planning his next vacation, walking his dog or watching planes land at the airport (yes, really).
Kent German
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Orange goo

NEW ORLEANS--Building a rugged cell phone isn't easy, but London-based Tech21 has put serious time and effort into making it work. And at CTIA 2012, it offered a demonstration of what goes into making its products strong.

This vat of orange goo is actually a non-Newtonian substance called D30, which Tech21 licenses. It's designed to absorb impacts and dissipate the shock away from your device. CEO Jason Roberts used the mallet and axe in the picture to demonstrate how D30 absorbs strong blows without leaving a dent.

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Mold it

On the other hand, D30 will change shape when you press your hand in slowly. After Roberts removed his hand, he left an imprint that stayed for several minutes.
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And shape it

You also can stretch out D30 with your hands.
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Protection for everyone

Here you can see Tech21's various products. They range from the simple I Band on the lower right to cases with rear covers, screen protectors, and belt clips. The yellow case in the foreground is the Submariner. It will protect your handset from an accidental dunking and will stay afloat if dropped in the water. Tech21 has products only for the iPhone 4 right now, but it will expand to other phones like the Samsung Galaxy S III in the near future.
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D30 inside

In this photo of Tech 21's I Band, you can see the orange D30 material lining the inside.
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All kinds of color

Of course, Tech21 wasn't the only case manufacturer at the show. Cellaris had a large booth with decorated iPhone cases for almost every taste.
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A huge selection

As I said, there's an iPhone case for almost every taste.
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Your city on your phone

Another vendor offered custom cases that can show your city's skyline.
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Going retro

There's even a case for cassette-loving audiophiles.
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When you need a cold one

A company called Be A Headcase showed a case that includes a bottle opener on the back. You can personalize it with your school or sports team.
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Durability defined

Incipio showed a series of Stanley-brand durable cases for wearing on your toolbelt.
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Underwater

Dry Case had vacuum-sealed iPhone or iPod sleeves that are waterproof up to 100 feet. Though they reminded me of a simple Ziploc bag, they also come with a headphone jack and a buoyant armband.
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Find your bling

If you prefer bling over practicality, plenty of companies offered designer cases that will stand out in a crowd.
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A green case

And if you're into sustainability, Xpressions of Awareness had bamboo cases with inspirational messages on the back.
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On the go

Amzerinc's Shellster cases include a belt clip.

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