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April 28, 2008

InvisibleSHIELD Keeps Your GPS (and Other Gadgets) Looking Like New


Verdict: invisible, invincible

InvisibleShield Keeps Your GPS Looking Like New

Available in custom sizes for over 2,000 devices, invisibleSHIELD sells full body protection kits for everything from Apple's MacBook Air to GPS units to digital cameras. I tested invisibleSHIELD and have to admit I'm a believer.

Originally designed to protect high-speed helicopter blades from dust, dirt and debris, invisibleSHIELD is a thin, polyurethane film that doesn't scratch, adds no bulk to the device, doesn't interfere with GPS signal reception, uses no adhesive, and can easily be removed at any time. Read on for the full review and pricing details.

invisibleSHIELD's Apple iPhone Full Body Kit
Figure 1: InvisibleSHIELD's iPhone Full-Body Kit

InvisibleSHIELD sells a full-body iPhone kit for $25, or a front-only kit for $19.

invisibleSHIELD's Apple iPhone Kit
Figure 2: invisibleSHIELD's Apple iPhone Kit

All invisibleSHIELD kits include three basic parts:

  • Sheets of invisibleSHIELD's film
  • Solution Bottle
  • Rubber squeegee

Avoiding Fingerprints
Figure 3: Avoiding Fingerprints

Tip: Spray a burst of the solution onto your fingertips to avoid fingerprints on the plastic film.

Using the Squeegee
Figure 4: Using the Squeegee

Spraying the included liquid onto BOTH sides of the plastic film allows you to slide the sheet around until it's in the exact desired position. Then, use the included rubber squeegee to push out any air bubbles, and lock the protective cover into place.

Remove the Back Sheet
Figure 5: Remove the Back Sheet

The full body kit includes protective plastic sheets for the front and rear of the iPhone, as well as the rounded corners.

Applying the Rear Film
Figure 6: Applying the Rear Film

Again, spray both sides of the plastic material, then apply it to the iPhone.

Applying the Corner Pieces
Figure 7: Applying the Corner Pieces

The Finished Product
Figure 8: The Finished Product

Once all four pieces have been applied, the iPhone is protected from scratches on all four sides.

The Finished Product
Figure 9: The Finished Product

The invisibleSHIELD is only .2 millimeters thick, and is (IMHO) a nice alternative to the various protective cases out there.

The Devil's in the Corners
Figure 10: The Devil's in the Corners

Applying invisibleSHIELD isn't difficult, but it does take some practice and patience. For example, getting the plastic film to adhere to the corners requires that you apply pressure for around 10 minutes.

The plastic film has cutouts in all the right places, allowing the button controls and digital camera to function properly.

The Drying/Curing Process
Figure 11: The Drying/Curing Process

InvisibleSHIELD shrinks slightly as it dries, creating a snug, form fitting bond.

invisibleSHIELD's Garmin nuvi 660/680 Kit
Figure 12: invisibleSHIELD's Garmin nuvi 660/680 Kit