Accessory Advisor

This horizontal case is very stylish and the leather has a very nice feel to it.  Inside the case is a very soft material that will protect your phone from scratches.  The clip on the back cannot be removed, but it does rotate into 8 locking positions.  The manufacturer describes the phone as -

The magnetic clasp is a nice feature when you need to quickly get to your phone.  At times we found the latch would come open if the case got caught on the edge of a desk or seat.  Because it is a pouch, it fits most small phones. 

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Office Depot has a great deal on the Motorola bluetooth headset models H350, H500, H550.  They are normally $49.95.  Right now there is a $10 instant rebate and a $35 mail in rebate.  As a result you get a good quality bluetooth headset for only $4.95 (plus tax on $39.95).  That is a killer deal.  The H500 comes in black, pink, or silver.  This seems to be an instore only deal as the price on the Office Depot website is higher and there is not a rebate listed.  In store, the $35 rebate prints with the receipt.   Looks like the deal may end this Sunday, March 30th.

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Cell phone holsters and cases can both be great options for carrying and protecting your phone.  Generally a holster differs from a case in that the phone has to be removed from a holster for use versus the case staying on during use.  Cases are often custom fitted for a specific model of phone and will not fit on other models.  Holsters are often somewhat universal within size limits.  A small holster will work with a broad range of models and brands as long as they are similar in size.  Holsters generally come in horizontal and vertical carrying positions with some having a ratcheting belt clip allowing you to do either.  If you expect to change phones often and are comfortable with a holster versus a case, you can likely use a holster for future phones and save a few dollars.

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The Motorola KRZR K1m pink leather snap on case is a fun addition to your phone.  It only fits the K1m, version of the KRZR and is not compatible with just the K1.  The manufacturer describes - 

It is specifically designed for the K1m, with opening for the camera, front screen and music controls on the front.  This cover does not provide a lot of protection if you drop your phone but it does protect it from scratches.  Overall, it’s convenient, can be taken on and off at will and looks nice with the soft feel of leather.

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Pro Fit International has released the miGrip and miniGrip cell phone holder.  Pro Fit describes the holder as -

The miGrip is a universal holder designed for handheld devices. The sleek, smart look compliments most devices on the market. The smooth clamping action secures your electronics with class. The miniGrip is a smaller version designed for today’s small handheld devices.

When mounting, either can be rotated 180 degrees to best fit your device depending on the application. The support tabs can be removed or relocated on the opposite end and may be adjusted to allow for different sized plugs on the bottom of the device.

Both models come with an adapter plate for easy installation on VSM or universal mounting solutions. The adapter plate allows for quick removal or transfers to another vehicle or mount.

Ideal for all standard sized iPod’s including any of the photo versions, plus the iPod mini. PDA’s and wireless ‘smart’ phones will also look great when secured with the miGrip or miniGrip.  Find a chart here for recommendations as to which version is compatible with your phone.

If you are looking for a good way to keep your cell phone accessible in the car, the Pro Fit miGrip might be the perfect option.

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Body Glove makes a top quality cell phone accessories.  This form fitting Motorola Q9 case is made of textured neoprene material.  There are openings for the charger, speaker, and camera and has a full screen cover, but the keyboard and buttons are not covered.  The case is not very padded but is water resistant.  It also has a large removable swivel clip, with a kickstand attached to the belt clip. 

The kickstand can be placed at 3 locking angels.  The kickstand makes the belt clip bulkier, but does provide enough support to stand the phone up on a desk.  However, if you try to use the phone while having it supported by the kickstand, the phone moves around a lot and the angel of the kickstand can change as you push on the phone.  So while the kickstand is nice to prop the phone up, it is not practical to use the phone while utilizing the kickstand. 

Overall, this is a good cell phone case if you like the textured feel of neoprene and don’t need a lot of protection on your phone. 

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With more phones including an MP3 player, bluetooth, and at times a headset jack there is some confusion over stereo bluetooth. 

All Bluetooth enabled phones are not Stereo Bluetooth enabled.  This is a specific feature separate from bluetooth. Many phones are bluetooth enabled and have a stereo headset jack.  You can use both a mono or stereo bluetooth headset but the music will only come through one speaker.  To get stereo while listening to music you must use the stereo headset jack on the phone.

Any bluetooth headset will work with any bluetooth enabled phone.  Buying a stereo bluetooth headset will not provide stereo sound unless the phone is equiped with the stereo bluetooth option.

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If you are looking for a way to improve your cell phone signal but have one of the many phones without an external antenna port, you may want to consider the Wilson Electronics amplified system.  Wilson states -

 Transmits and receives an improved wireless signal inside your vehicle.

Requires NO physical connection to your phone or    cellular data card
• The system can be used by multiple phones.
• Works with all cell phone models and cellular    data cards
• Inside signal range may vary with signal strength
• Must have an external antenna

Each Mobile Wireless Amplifier System contains an amplifier, a Low-Profile inside antenna, a 6-foot coaxial extension cable, a universal external antenna adapter, and a power cable that plugs into a 12-volt cigarette lighter adapter.

The Magnet Mounts are recommended for ease of installation and mobility.
We have found the Wilson units to provide a real improvement in signal strength.  These type of solutions can easily pay for themselves for those who live and die by their cell phone such as builders, real estate agents, sale people, and public safety.

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