The original Smartphone Piel Frama case was reviewed sometime ago by Matt and Emma. You can read it here . Since the release of the i-mate Smartphone2 / O2 XPhone, the case has been improved to include a hole at the back for the camera. And I'm reviewing this one...

First Impressions

The first impression of the Piel Frama case is that it is a well-made, sturdy, practical case that beats any imitations by a far mile. Other cases like the cheap and nasty leather ones, the clear plastic ones, or those with snug fit rubber all have their own target market; the PF case seems to find its niche in the upmarket, business group. It doesn't add much to the overall weight and it is designed so that the phone can still be fully functional in the case.

Appearance

The Piel Frama case comes in either a black or a tan colour or a combination of both - I'm using the black one on an XPhone (it will also fit the SP2 and Qtek 8080, which are essentially the same phone). Similar to the Smartphone 2002 edition, it is a flip top with a click-close fastener that wraps around to the back of the phone. I didn't really like this because it means that the phone will not be sitting flat on its back (I know, I'm pedantic...). Wish there was a magnetic fastener version.

Accessibility

In fact, this case looks almost identical to the old version other than a hole for the built-in camera. Unfortunately, because this is a flip top case, it does mean that if you want to take a photo, you'd have to hold the flap away so it doesn't cover up the camera, or take a photo sideways. In my opinion, it would have been a good idea to add 2 creases at the top (and harden the leather) so that the flap will happily sit in a horizontal position when you open it up - or whatever, so long as it doesn't get in the way.

There is a metal stud at the back for the swivel belt clip attachment. Personally, I'd never use the belt clip - I don't even own a belt - but it is a very handy thing to have for ... well, guys. The stud is removable using a spanner supplied in the package. The belt clip is larger (and stronger?) than the original version; however, this made the swiveling slightly restricted because the tip of the clip reaches pass the fastener. The tan case comes with a tan coloured belt clip (don't laugh... they don't always).

Again, everything is nicely aligned; even the section for the microphone has not been forgotten. There are 2 slots to put SD cards into and beneath the slots is a separate money compartment that is too small for a credit card, but, nevertheless, useful to keep some emergency money. I've had no problems charging my phone with the case on, although it might be a bit more troublesome recharging through the cradle.

Drop Test...

Well, I have no results as yet. I'm notorious for dropping phones and smashing them to bits; so I'm sure it won't be long till I can report on this one. Although - most of the reason I drop my phone is that it slips out of my bag because of its smooth design. I believe the PF case is will cut the drop probability dramatically.

Pricing

The price for the Piel Frama case is normally AUD$129, although our friends at Press Digital currently have it on special for AUD$99.  And remember, MTekk members get free delivery!

Piel Frama case for i-mate Smartphone2 / O2 XPhone Overall Score

Good: Tailored fitting Provision for storing SD card Well made Sturdy

Bad: The flap may get in the way when using the camera Lean toward a masculine style... (heh... that should have been a positive point, eh?) Snap fastener takes some getting used to Price

Overall: I've never been a fan of leather cases; however, the PF case is certainly sitting at a very appealing mark. I do wish that there'd be a more feminine version of the case, perhaps having a strap instead of having belt clips, or come in dark red, etc... While I think talking through any leather case is rather odd, with this personal bias aside, the PF case is unmistakably handmade with luxurious quality; It is a good protection for the phone and tailored to be used on an SP2 with practicality in mind. Jackie's Score : 8 / 10