What's a good iPhone case/shield/protector (and a few bonus questions)?

[pg22]

Hello,

I hope this thread hasn't been quite beaten to death, but I had the following questions about my new little toy:

1) Anyone have any preferences for cases or protection for the iPhone? For my past iPod's and Nano's, I've used iSkin's, but that's because I run with the endlessly. I don't really want something that intense for the iPhone. Basically I'd like a good compromise that maintains the iPhone's style yet offers some measure of protection from wear and tear.

2) Are there any IM clients yet? I guess I'll take a peak at that hack thread but I'd figure it's worth an ask.

3) In terms of the YouTube support, is there any to watch the videos you have uploaded yourself? For example, I have bunch of videos from my recent travels, and it's simple enough to upload them to YouTube on my Macbook. What I am wondering is if there is a way to access them on the iPhone?

That's it for now. Thanks guys.

 

[OpenThirdEye]

I can take a stab at a few of these:

1. I don't think that anybody's brought out a really good case for the iPhone yet. I use the Crystal film for the front (I like it A LOT better than the alternatives). I don't have anything for the back yet, but I've heard that BestSkinEver is a really good choice.

As far as actual cases, I've heard that the Vaja and Orbino (SP?) cases are awesome...but pricey...and both don't cover the front. Personally...I've used:
- the iSkin Revo: It's okay...but I wasn't a fan...the front cover came off to easily and it collected a lot of dust...contrary to what they say on their site
- InCase Protective Cover: it stretched out after a week and only covers the back/chrome
- Belkin iPhone Holster SlimCase: I really like this case...I still own it! It holds the iPhone very nicely and has mesh on the bottom so you can still hear the ringer. Plus, it has a very unobtrusive belt clip...works great on a belt/pocket or in a shirt pocket
- iPhone SmartCase from sfbag.com: I just got this one today and I really like it so far! No stitching on the inside, UltraSuede for the interior...I'm digging it so far!

2. The best IM client out there so far is http://iphone.beejive.com. This handles quite a few of the IM clients...but it's Alpha...so it may crash Safari. http://flickim.com is good if you just want AOL IM.

3. Can't really help you much there...

If you want some really in-depth info...keep an eye on http://apple.howardforums.com

Hope this helps!