It's always been difficult to protect the shiny surface of devices that we handle frequently. I've seen many iPods and Zunes with scratches, not to mention all kinds of cell phones. Now that touch screens are becoming common (iPhone, BlackBerry Storm, Google Android phone, etc.) it is more important than ever to protect the surface from scratches.
That's the intent of the invisibleSHIELD™ by Zagg. The Military Grade invisibleSHIELD film was originally developed for the U.S. Military to protect helicopter blades so it should be good enough for clumsy fingers.
It uses Nano-memory™ technology that appears as a very subtle texture in the surface of the film. The film is only 0.2 mm thick so it won't add bulk to the device. It will still fit in docking stations and custom cases.
Each invisibleSHIELD™ is made for a specific device. There is no cutting down. The film is transparent and comes in sections to precisely match the contours of your device. The kit is about the size of a thin paperback book and consists of a tube of SHIELDspray, a plastic squeegee and 2 skins of film (front and back of device.)
You spray some of the liquid (essentially water) on your fingers so the film won't stick and then peel off a section of the film. Spray the sticky side and then carefully place it on the device.
Use the included piece of plastic to squeegee away liquid and air bubbles from under the film. Then hold down the curves and corners for a few minutes and then repeat with the other sections. They have extensive company and user videos on their website
Apple iPhone 3G invisibleSHIELD
The Zune I covered was pretty basic, just 3 pieces. One each for the front, back and touchpad. I had to hold the tabs and sides down for awhile so they wouldn't pop back up. They recommend you don't use the device for 12-24 hours after application to let it set.
The film is clear and doesn't interfere with the device operation. It is intended to prevent scratches, not drops but the film adds a little to the grip so it may not slip as much.
Check out the video of a key scratching a protected and unprotected iPhone.
The Lifetime Replacement Warranty means they will replace the invisibleSHIELD if it ever becomes damaged, not your device.
The invisibleSHIELD™ is available for nearly every gadget, including Cell Phones, Digital Cameras, GPS systems, Laptops, Gaming Consoles, and various MP3 players.
A scratch on your old cell phone isn't too bad but a scratch on your video MP3 player or newer touch screens and the device can become essentially worthless.
Prices vary but a shield for my cell phone was on sale for $6.95. Full body coverage of my Zune costs $24.95 while screen coverage alone costs $11.95
