After finally realizing that the slow 3G connection on my new iPhone 3G was due to some clever network manipulation by AT&T, I'm now thrilled with my very fast new phone. The new iPhone looks almost identical to the original, but the tiny bit of extra width means that the cases for the original will no longer fit. I stuffed my iPhone 3G into a leather case meant for the original, and while I just managed to get its slightly wider load inside the case, after a few hours, the leather cracked. If you want a perfect fit, you'll have to upgrade your case as well.

Disappointingly, I haven't found a single case yet that I think is worthy of the iPhone. They're all clunky and chunky and either add a lot of bulk or a flimsy silicone skin. Generally I would never think of buying a phone case that costs very nearly as much as the phone itself, but Miniot's beautiful iWood tempts me. The iWood is carved from a single piece of wood, and comes with a personal engraving so you can brand your phone. In five beautiful wood finishes, from Cherry to the actually much redder Padouk, every iWood is slightly different due to the natural material. It's sleek but the form-fitting style offers excellent protection as well. You can also purchase an optional matching wood dock.

The iWood for iPhone is about $125 (€ 80) and available from Miniot.

And hey, if your company is making cases for the iPhone 3G, something a little unusual or stylish, we'd love to review them. Please contact us, or forward review products to
Popgadget, Attn: Mia Kim
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