UK iPhone

As promised, Apple is now offering a free iPhone 4 case to every iPhone 4 owner. The process is being managed through a free app, which you can download through the App Store.

There is a choice of cases, from Apple’s own bumper case through to a range of third-party cases, so you should be able to find the case you want.

UPDATE: Turns out that link is for the US store: looks like Apple haven’t launched the free case programme in the UK yet. Will update with news on this. The programme has launched, and the link is now fixed.

A lot of cases seem to put all their emphasis on protecting the front and back of your iPhone. But let’s face it: if you accidentally drop your phone, it’s quite likely to land on one of its edges, or even a corner. You really need excellent edge protection to keep your phone safe in that scenario.

Enter the iBand iPhone protector. Thanks to its d30 substance, it’s a lot more protective than a standard case. Said to offer 100% more protection than a standard case, it also gives you full access to the front, back and all controls. And at under £20 it’s a good investment in protection.

Find out more at Firebox: iBand d3o iPhone Protector (New 2010 edition)

Protecting your valuable iPhone investment requires some serious case technology. One of the most highly-rated manufacturers is Otterbox, with a range of cases from the inexpensive Otterbox Impact Case, up to the virtually bulletproof Otterbox Defender.

With three layers of protection, the Otterbox Defender cradles your iPhone in a clear membrane, which is held within a tough polycarbonate skeleton case, that is itself encased in a silicon rubber outer case that is the only protection in some lesser cases. The Defender is perhaps the ultimate protection for your iPhone, in black, white and pink, for around £40.

The Otterbox Commuter has a similar three-layer protection construction, although not designed to stand up to the same level of abuse, it does cost about half as much, whereas the Impact Case is a more standard silicon rubber case for more casual protection, for around £16.

Your purchasing options are as follows:

• From Amazon, the Otterbox Defender Case in Black or White or Pink.
• From Play.com, the Otterbox Commuter Case in Black or Red.
• From Amazon, the Otterbox Impact Case in Black or from Play.com, in White.

I’m loving these amazing Star Wars covers for the iPhone. I’ve never used a cover for my iPhone, but the number of dings and scratches on the case would suggest that I re-think that decision! If I were to get one it would definitely be one of these Star Wars ones, as I’ve been a fan since I was a kid. The only question is, which one?

Get them here: Star Wars Stormtrooper Silicon Soft Cover Case For iPhone 3GS / 3G or Star Wars Darth Vader Silicone Soft Cover For iPhone 3GS / 3G for only £17.99 each.