News

Otterbox has announced its new Armor Series of smartphone cases for the iPhone 4/4S and iPhone 5. Otterbox claims these are the toughest cases they've ever built, and says they're waterproof for 30 minutes in 6.6 ft. of water, and can survive 10 ft. drops. The Armor case also allows for zero entry of dust and debris and can withstand two tons of crushing force.

The iPhone 5 case weights 3.91 oz and the iPhone 4/4S case weighs 4.23 oz. The case will set you back $100, but that's a lot cheaper than replacing your smashed or water damaged iPhone.

The National Rifle Association has released an app for iOS devices called "NRA: Practice Range". The app description reads: "Meet NRA: Practice Range – the NRA’s new mobile nerve center, delivering one-touch access to the NRA network of news, laws, facts, knowledge, safety tips, educational materials and online resources." However, the included 3D shooting game and age rating of 4 and above has ruffled some feathers during a time when gun control is being heavily debated in the U.S.

The Target Practice game promises: "A 3D shooting game that instills safe and responsible ownership through fun challenges and realistic simulations. It strikes the right balance of gaming and safety education, allowing you to enjoy the most authentic experience possible."

It offers 9 firearms, 3 immersive shooting ranges, 3 distinct difficult levels and Game Center support.

The fifth and final beta release of iOS 6.1 will be seeded to developers within days. Apple has put the latest firmware though "extensive internal testing" according to a report cited by AppleInsider. This version is expected to be the golden master build, which means the public release is imminent.

Developers have been treated to an improved Map Kit framework that will make it possible for their apps to search for venues using terms such as "gas station" or "beer". The first beta build of iOS 6.1 was seeded to developers in November, with expectations that public release would come shortly after the new year.

iFrogz previewed the new Caliber Advantage mobile gaming controller for the iPhone 5 and iPod touch at CES in Las vegas this week. The iFrogz (a ZAGG brand) Caliber Advantage aims to give gamers a more accurate gaming experience by utilizing Bluetooth 4.0 to connect directly to the corresponding app. The case also features dual slide-out analog controls with crisp and responsive keys, and the ability to flip the device to play in portrait or landscape mode.

Kent Wuthrich, executive vice president of marketing for ZAGG, claims the Caliber Advantage "is a game-changer for the mobile platform".

"Everyone from hardcore gamers to casual players will enjoy and appreciate the control and function of the Caliber Advantage. We are committed to bringing creative product solutions to gaming with not only this revolutionary gaming controller, but also a full line-up of gaming-specific audio products."

iPhone5mod has come up with the perfect product for those who enjoy disassembling small consumer electronic devices and violating manufacturers' warranties. Another body mod kit, this time to make the iPhone 5 translucent. The site claims their replacement parts are even lighter than the originals.

Not only this, but the translucent plastic parts are scratch-proof, fingerprint resistant and highly durable. The new iPhone 5 body parts will replace just about everything on the exterior of the device, and provide protection from damage due to bending or collision. Why hide the insides of the iPhone 5? This is a sure conversation starter, that is if you can get your device reassembled properly.