AccessoriesAppsHandsetsVideo

Hands-on: HTC One M9’s new Dot View and stylish interchangeable stand cases

12

During our Mobile World Congress coverage, we spent a quick minute checking out HTC’s all new and updated cases for the HTC One M9. The Taiwanese manufacturer has made quite a name for themselves thanks to its aluminum flagships, they also happen to be a master of polycarbonate, doing a fantastic job at crafting stylish plastic cases and accessories.

HTC One M9 Dot View 2 DSC08847

Without question, last year’s Dot View cases were probably one of the coolest accessories we’d ever seen on a smartphone. Similar to flip cases, the Dot View cases had perforated cover flaps that display time and notifications in brilliantly animated 8-bit like designs. Our only complaint was while they looked pretty, they didn’t exactly behave themselves in real world use. The cover flap often times wouldn’t sit properly on the One M8 and was extremely awkward to use when flipped behind the device. For 2015, HTC has improved upon this design with their Dot View 2 case for the HTC One M9.

The new case — which will come in a variety of colors — has been engineered to function more properly and fold back behind the device much easier. HTC spent a great deal of time fine tuning the design of the One M9, polishing up its aluminum exterior and what not. So why hide that beautiful finish with a case? The Dot View 2 also comes in a variant with a clear backside, ensuring the phone’s shimmery exterior can still shine through.

HTC Dot Design Breaker Message

What’s more, the companion app for the Dot View case has also been updated. HTC is adding the ability to draw 8-bit like visuals (like a heart, or bird or something) adding a bit of a unique and personal touch. There’s also a new scrolling marquee feature, although its usefulness is for you to decide (hailing a taxi for instance, or yelling at someone in the car next to you).

HTC One M9 Dot View 2 DSC08848

Arguably the best part about the updated app is the new ability to play simple video games straight from the cover. Unfortunately, there’s only one at the moment, HTC’s take on the classic Brick Breaker. The game controls are simply, requiring the user to tilt the device to control the paddle and that’s about.

HTC Dot View Breaker game

Really, the game was was more interesting than it was fun, reminding us a lot of those calculator games we used to play in our algebra class. You’re more likely to use this as an ice breaker at parties than really trying to pass the time and while that was the only game available, we can’t wait to see what else HTC comes up with.

HTC One M9 OEM cases DSC08887

Finally, HTC’s regular ‘ol plastic cases have been spruced up and are now more stylish and functional than ever. Besides offering a light amount of protection (these aren’t Otterboxes, you know), their new Stand Case features pop-out replaceable back plates so you can change the design and colors. Each box comes with 2 color choices that can be swapped out quickly and easily to suit your mood/outfit.

HTC One M9 OEM cases DSC08885

They look pretty flashy, but the coolest feature is their ability to open up on one side (they have tiny rubber hinges). This will prop up the One M9 for a more optimal viewing angle should you want to watch a quick YouTube or Netflix video during lunch. It’s flippin’ amazing (get it?). Check out our gallery below for a better look with more angles.

This is just a small serving of the cases and accessories HTC has meticulously designed for the HTC One M9. We also spied a more rugged water proof case, and a Clear Shield case, but those were behind glass. What do you guys think of the new cases we got our hands on? Sexy, or silly?

Chris Chavez
I've been obsessed with consumer technology for about as long as I can remember, be it video games, photography, or mobile devices. If you can plug it in, I have to own it. Preparing for the day when Android finally becomes self-aware and I get to welcome our new robot overlords.

Report: Google’s wireless service will require a Nexus 6 to start

Previous article

New app lets you bring one of the Samsung Galaxy S6 Edge’s best features to any phone (sort of)

Next article

You may also like

12 Comments

  1. Naked phone for me. The design is too beautiful to hide in a case.

    1. That’s where the clear case comes in. HTC is already aware.

      1. While it’s clear, the plastic would still ruin that metal feel in your hand.

        1. I know. =.[
          I take my M8 out the case just to feel it sometimes. =.P

          Though the phone is too slippery for me. So I kinda *have* to have it in a case.

      2. As Izik said, would ruin the feel. Plus, even the clear view will become hazy over time due to wear.

  2. Not gonna lie… This dot view case would be an auto buy for me if copping the M9… I hope they release a Max version with a dot view. My dreams would come true.

    1. Right!? My last Tmo Jump isn’t helping keep my urges in check, either.

  3. Where is there water proof case

  4. OMG!! Wow… I’m the type of human to actually do something “cool” on my phone as an icebreaker, too. =.3

  5. I am so disappointed with the M9, I can’t even read this article… Freaking high expectations…

  6. Will they update the m8 dot view app with these features?

  7. That is awesome stuff.

Leave a reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

More in Accessories