Hands-on: Galaxy S3 Element Case
Accessory makers flock to the iPhone for virtue of simplicity: more people using fewer models. The much more fragmented Android device portfolio means accessory makers have to pick and choose which phones and tablets to support, each coming with risk depending on volume. But if you’re going to choose one sure shot phone for which to produce an accessory? You’re best bet is probably the Samsung Galaxy series and that’s exactly what they’ve done with the Galaxy S3 Element Case, named Atom.
The Galaxy S3 Element Case is the first non-iPhone case produced by the company and hopefully it won’t be the last. This thing is slick on a number of levels. First of all it does the obvious – protects your phone – but boy oh boy doe sit look good in the process.
The company also funneled the sound from the rear speaker to the front of the case, allowing users to have a front facing speaker. This makes too much sense and I’ve been a proponent of front facing speakers on mobile devices forever. It’s the main reason I commended the otherwise uncommendable Casio G’zone Commando. But for some reason manufacturers don’t make this a standard feature, probably due to the complications of internals.
The front facing speaker lets you watch video with much greater ease, preventing the need to cup your hand around the speaker or bring your face frustratingly close to the screen when watching Youtube to hear what’s happening. Call it a small point, but it makes showing/sharing videos with a couple people around much more enjoyable.
Unfortunately, as pointed out by MrGizmoto in the Youtube comments, the orientation of the kickstand muzzles the speaker into the resting surface which kind of defeats the purpose.
Regardless, the Galaxy S3 Element Case is gorgeous and actually improves the aesthetics of an already great looking device. Throw in protection and speaker orientation and you’ve got an absolute winner. Now, if you’re listening, will you guys make some cases for other Android phones? We’re waiting anxiously.