Review of NLU BodyGuardz for iPhone 3G

[theotherrogue]

Alright so I DID get around to applying my new NLU Products BodyGuardz a little sooner than expected.

I'm going to do a mini-review, but this is only part I of the review because I will require more time to see how the protection actually "settles" into place. (I'll answer questions after I'm done with the whole review)

REVIEW - NLU PRODUCTS BodyGuardz for iPhone 3G

PART I

Recommendation: Apply your screen/body protection when you aren't going to be using your iPhone for a while - like right before you go to bed. You'll want the protection to sit overnight after application, before you start using your iPhone.

NLU provides nice packaging. Included are 2 screen protectors, 2 body protectors, 1 bottle of application spray liquid, 1 microfiber cloth, 1 hard plastic squegee, installation instructions and some small promotional cards.

SEE ATTACHED PHOTOS

Important pre-application tip: use the application spray! Use lots of it! Make sure you liberally spray your fingers before pulling off the stickers, and then spray liberally on the sticky part of the stickers themselves. Your precious iPhone is actaully pretty well sealed off against liquid damage (after all, that one guy (http://www.macrumors.com/iphone/2008/07/14/iphone-3g-stress-tests-keys-dropping-and-more/) dropped his in a bowl of cereal and milk with no problems)

The liquid will help you move the stickers around a little bit, because you DO NOT want them to immediately stick on contact. You are not perfect and you will not get the stickers perfectly aligned without the liquid. Even if you run out of liquid, it is a simple mixture of water and baby shampoo, so you could easily make more.

[theotherrogue]

PART 2

My advice: Apply the screen protector first. It is much easier to do and will provide you with good practice for the much more difficult back part.

Make sure your screen is completely clean before you do anything, and wash your hands VERY WELL. Use a lot of application liquid, and go for it.

The cutouts for the speaker and home button are PERFECT. They leave just a little bit of "breathing room", but it looks great. I still have some "bubbles" present after squeegeeing (I use my fingers, not the plastic squeegee), but NLU assures these will go away after some time. I'll post more pictures after it is completely dried and settled - so don't make any final judgments yet.

The screen protector provides perfect coverage all the way to the sides of the black-glass area, leaving ever so small a gap (which looks nice).

MORE TO COME LATER (probably tomorrow). Be patient. http://images.macrumors.com/vb/images/smilies/cool.gif

[Joey7071]

looks to better than InvisibleSHIELD, please post more pics I loved my InvisibleSHIELD on my first gen iPhone but this really looks as nice if not better can't wait to see the back on it to see how it fits on it.

[dlamin517]

mine should be here by tomorrow. so thanks for the advice.

[theotherrogue]

PART 3

My initial installation of the back film has proved to be slightly difficult (thank goodness they provide 2 sets of film for your money).

It seems like the film is cut perfectly, wrapping all the way around the back of the iPhone 3G, and covering all the way over the side of the chrome frame. All of the cutouts are perfectly shaped (leaving room for the headphone port, sleep/wake button, vibrate button, volume control, camera, dock connector, and speakers). The first time, I lined up the film based on the location of the camera cutout, but it seems like I got a little sideways with the application from that point.

The corners seem to wrap to be cut very well (see the cutout diagram in my first post), however, the slightest deviation from the correct positioning will leave some of them looking a little creased.

I will try application #2 tomorrow and try to get it a little more straight. I will post more photos after I do.

By the way, I think the material/finish of the BodyGuardz is perfect. The screen has the same shine and glossy look as a naked screen would, and the plastic back retains its fully glossy finish. The touch sensitivity is unaffected. Honestly, one you get the bubbles out of the film, I think the film will look truly invisible.

More coming soon...

[kmay37]

I received mine fairly quickly, ordered it on the 10 and got it on the 13th, with the free shipping that they offered. Only i can't use it yet because my iphone screen isn't flush and is off-set and i can see light between the screen and the side of the phone...which sucks, so I am waiting till i can return my old one and get a new one, I can't wait!

[born4sky]

so it does cover iPhone Chrome part ?

[meagain]

Awesome! I ordered mine and they shipped immediately. It's on the way.
Great job on centering it on the screen. Looking forward to your good detailed pics. Especially that pesky bezel.

[the_wallcrawler]

Applied mine today. I only applied the back as I have the Power Support crystal film on the screen. I got all corners to lay flat and be positioned perfectly but I have a ton of bubbles. Hopefully they work themselves out.

[meagain]

wallcrawler - could you post pics? Or, if you have a black phone, does the skin create a situation of glossy, non-smudgedness?

[pocketdoc]

WOW, I am impressed. The front installation is perfect. How did you do that? I have installed these and it ain't easy.

The back, as you said, is even harder. It doesn't slide as easily as you may think.

Good luck and more pics when you are done.

I used to think IS was the best, but I like the way this one is cut for the back.

Did you cover the front button? Is it a cutout or a single piece?

[pflau]

Does the front piece cover the bezel? Thanks.

[theotherrogue]

so it does cover iPhone Chrome part ?

Yes, it wraps around from the back quite nicely

[theotherrogue]

Did you cover the front button? Is it a cutout or a single piece?

There is no home button protection included. I don't forsee this being a problem since the button is recessed. Unless your putting your phone in a pocket with coins/ keys (gasp!), it should never get scratched.

[theotherrogue]

Does the front piece cover the bezel? Thanks.

The front piece fits perfectly to the edges of the black-glass on the screen.

[born4sky]

Just place my order for bodyguardz.com and 5 min later received an email saying that it's been shipped. :) total turned out to be $22.45

[soberbrain]

Thanks for posting this. I'm looking forward to more pics of the results. I ordered my BodyGuardz earlier this week after reading it had a cleaner look that other skins.

Hopefully, I can pick up an iPhone this weekend!

[heyp]

i just ordered this today... i couldn't wait any longer for fullbodyfilms.com to get there stuff together... i chose the free shipping option, any chance it gets here this week?

[soberbrain]

i just ordered this today... i couldn't wait any longer for fullbodyfilms.com to get there stuff together... i chose the free shipping option, any chance it gets here this week?

Maybe or early next week. I ordered mine Sunday night and it shipped the next day. I just checked the tracking number and it's in my state already. I'm hoping to get it today or tomorrow the latest.

[w...b]

subscribed

wow that looks nice. so how exactly will the bubbles be removed over time? and after say a couple of months or years would the corners start to lift? im looking to get this and keep my iphone in the Vaja pouch.

[bmonster]

I just got mine in the mail but I'm waiting for pics in this thread of how it looks on the back :D

Also, does anyone know where the water sensor is (the little sticker that turns red and voids your warranty... the old iphone it was in the bottom of the headphone jack but I haven't noticed it on the new one.)

[brandonzar]

I ordered my bodyguardz film for my iPhone 3G yesterday and it arrived today! even with the free shipping! I'll be applying it this evening and I'll let you all know how it went.

[theotherrogue]

PART 4 (Final)

What an excellent product we have here.

NLU shipped my BodyGuardz on the day the iPhone 3G was released. I was very impressed with their ability to get the product off the manufacturing line so quickly, but I was also very skeptical about how good a "1st generation" body protection product would turn out. There are some things they could improve though...

DISCLAIMER: The installation of the back shield is the most tedious and annoying process i've ever gone through for a gadget. You will need to set aside AT LEAST ONE HOUR to do the back shield installation. No, I'm not kidding.

My first attempt at the back shield was very poor for a couple of reasons. 1) I thought it wouldn't take "that long" and I was impatient, 2) I didn't use enough of the spray solution.

So here's what I did the second time around:
-Turned on my shower and filled up my bathroom with steam. This gets all the dust particles out of the air, and having more 'moist' air will help keep the back from immediately sticking.
-Washed off my hands a lot.
-Turned off my iPhone and cleaned it a lot. Used water and a very modest amount of hand soap on a small dust-free cloth.

Following all of NLU instructions, I liberally sprayed my fingers and the sticky part of the shield with the provided spray. You need to look carefully at the layout of the sticker before you pull if from the backing. It's not easy, and you could easily stretch it out in the process... so be patient and plan it out. Use lots of spray!!

Lining up the back shield is NOT EASY, but it is cut nearly perfectly. I suggest paying close attention to the camera cutout and the volume/silent cutouts. My shield was cut precisely to the size of the volume switch - there is not breathing room so pay close attention to it.

You will need to press the shield down in the middle and work your way toward the outsides. VERY SLOWLY. If you use enough solution and work slowly, you should have no air/water bubble problems.

The corners are a horrible thing to deal with. You need a lot of time to "work" them down. They are not very sticky with the solution applied, so you need to press them back down again, and again, and again, about a hundred time before they completely stick. . . . . After you finally get them to stick down (paying close attention to their positioning on the chrome sides), you will want to use a hair-dryer to help them "form" into place. Do thins for a few minutes and you should get them to stick down nicely.

Pros:
-You get two shields in the package. You will probably mess up the first time, so you need them
-Wraps perfectly around all the holes of your iPhone (dock connetor, speakers, volume, headphones, etc..)
-The clarity is perfect. Matches the iPhone's gloss perfectly - you really can't see it except at the corners.
-Feels the same as a "naked" iPhone. Although the back seems a little more "sticky" to prevent it slipping out of your hand. Very nice.
-Price is a steal compared to competitors (who usually provide only 1 shield for the same price)

Cons:
-Installation is an extremely tedious process.
-The corners are not completely covered by the cutouts (see close up shots)

Pictures below
You may see 'dust" in the photos, but it is not becasue of the shield, just a dusty environment in which I took the photos. It really looks the same as a naked iPhone. The screen clarity is perfect.

[theotherrogue]

More photos

[heyp]

thanks for the review and the pics... now i'll i need is the skin and my iphone to arrive

[abijnk]

Great review and helper. I am reading this as mine is sitting in the mailbox at home. After reading this I am looking forward to getting home and getting it applied!

[theotherrogue]

Great review and helper. I am reading this as mine is sitting in the mailbox at home. After reading this I am looking forward to getting home and getting it applied!

Look forward to the result... not the process!! :)

[theotherrogue]

By the way, I challenge anyone to get theirs applied as well as I did.

[bmonster]

I just put my first one on... but I'm too embarrassed to post up pics :D. I'm going to let it dry completely before I rip it off and put on the 2nd set. Then I may send in the old for a replacement just to keep on hand.. or is that wrong.

[JackSpearo]

yesss thanks so much for that review, I ordered mine today!

man you lined up the front PERFECT!

[bentfp]

Man, good job!

Will you apply mine for me?! lol!

Gonna get me one of these now...

[w...b]

can the film come off? like if you want to take it off after a while. or is it permanently on or lives a sticky residue?

damn i have to pay for shipping. and the cheapest is $16. And i live just up north in Toronto. Thats crazy!!

[sadfaceman]

can the film come off? like if you want to take it off after a while. or is it permanently on or lives a sticky residue?

damn i have to pay for shipping. and the cheapest is $16. And i live just up north in Toronto. Thats crazy!!

the shields come off no problem, and leave absolutely no residue that I have found

[kmay37]

Wow man you did a great job! Looks excellent, I hope I can get mine to look that good!!

[kleinishere]

Thanks a lot for the pictures and info. Mine arrives tomorrow and I'm hoping its application will be a success.

I just took a look over at the bodyguardz.com web site and if you haven't seen it already they've updated the iPhone 3G page w/ an installation video:

http://www.bodyguardz.com/ProductDetails.asp?ProductCode=NL-BAIP-0608&Show=TechSpecs

They show it after 72 hours and it looks tremendous. I'm excited!

[cheapa55]

Seriously, you did a great job!!! Thank you for giving us tips. I bought 1 but I have 2 iphones (wife and I) so I hope I don't mess up.

[soberbrain]

Thanks, theotherrogue! It's great to see real world photos of the product. After the disappointing iPhone inventory and store lines, I have a renewed excitement for getting a black 16GB.

[brock2621]

I must say that bodyguardz shipped the SAME DAY i ordered it. EXTREMELY fast! About 2 hours after i ordered i got a "shipped" confirmation. Apple needs to take lessons from these guys!

[HaroldC]

Nice job OP!

Since reading this thread, I've ordered my BG. The biggest factor was the pics of the back with the BG installed. It is nearly impossible to tell that there's a skin on it, which is exactly what I want.

I have an IS waiting for me at home, so I get some practice with it so I can get the BG on perfectly. :)

[born4sky]

no doubt the first iPhone has to have this applied, but Do you realy think that this iPhone need this? I tryed scratch mine with a keys, and no scratches ...

:confused:

[HaroldC]

no doubt the first iPhone has to have this applied, but Do you realy think that this iPhone need this? I tryed scratch mine with a keys, and no scratches ...

:confused:

why risk it?

it's just an hour out of your day (at best) and you'll be happy knowing that there are no scratches on your phone for the life of it.

[mrl72]

Got mine last night. Back is a b&$*# to put on. Do the front first then the back. They put two int here becuase they know you'll screw the first one up! :)

Question: I have little bubbles on the back that I can't get out, will these go away after 48 hours?

[dalvin200]

Thanks a lot for the pictures and info. Mine arrives tomorrow and I'm hoping its application will be a success.

I just took a look over at the bodyguardz.com web site and if you haven't seen it already they've updated the iPhone 3G page w/ an installation video:

http://www.bodyguardz.com/ProductDetails.asp?ProductCode=NL-BAIP-0608&Show=TechSpecs

They show it after 72 hours and it looks tremendous. I'm excited!

I swear that's a naked iPhone 3G!!! lol..

nah, it does indeed look awesome..

I for one wouldn't have the patience to apply it.. I'd get so frustrated, my iPhone 3G would get smashed into a wall!! lol

Got mine last night. Back is a b&$*# to put on. Do the front first then the back. They put two int here becuase they know you'll screw the first one up! :)

Question: I have little bubbles on the back that I can't get out, will these go away after 48 hours?

If you watch the video on their site, they assure you that it could take 48/72 hours to completely dry, depending on how much lube you applied :D
You could also use a hair dryer in 5 sec intervals on a cool setting

[CrimsonScythe]

I was considering buying a Bodyguardz for my iPhone, but their shipping prices are just too insane. $16 for shipping! This brings the total up above our customs limit, so the complete amount becomes:

($24.95 + $16) + 25% VAT + $19 customs fee = $70

No way is this worth $70...

[CKtoph]

Can someone report if the BodyGuard backpiece reaches the chrome on the sides of the phone? Or does it end with the black/white part?

I'm deciding between the IS back or the BodyGuard, but I need to make sure that they cover the chrome part. That's the easiest to get scratched anyway.

Then I'll probably get a crystal film shield from the Apple store.

I want to make sure I get full coverage with the combination.

[meagain]

Seems to me BodyGuardz is covering the bezel VERY well.

[kleinishere]

Can someone report if the BodyGuard backpiece reaches the chrome on the sides of the phone? Or does it end with the black/white part?

I'm deciding between the IS back or the BodyGuard, but I need to make sure that they cover the chrome part. That's the easiest to get scratched anyway.

CKtoph - I just finished applying my bodyguardz back portion and can wholeheartedly say the back piece covers the bezel extremely well. It really was an excellent cut. I had ordered the bodyguardz for the back of the phone and the power support crystal film for the front and am very happy with that decision as the entire phone is now totally protected but looks totally normal. I would go for the bodyguardz, I'm happy I canceled my IS order and did. They will ship the next day, the price is good, and they include 2 fronts and 2 backs for the same price as the IS. I can tell you, after applying this back piece for the last 2.5 hours, I would definitely say the extra backup is worth doing the bodyguardz.

[EvolutionTheory]

I purchased the BodyGuardz for my white iPhone 3G because of the glowing reviews.

I have to say that many of the reviews are not accurate or are written by people who have either poor eyesight or simply do not care.

The Bodyguardz is EXTREMELY difficult to install if you want it on exactly without lint or permanent bubbles. The pictures posted clearly have lint and dust under the skin all over the phone.

I went through 2 skins and had to rip off both sets due to either
a) minute fragments of dust (Even with my hands washed, air conditioner off, and hands + back sprayed)

b) fingerprints (The back dries unless you actually continue to spray the phone.. and soak the phone possibly ruining it. Once the back dries you leave fingerprints and have to rip it off again to spray)

c) permanent bubbles on the back.

The video makes it look easy because they dont show you the result based on what the girl does. You can easily place it on with bubbles and dust or fingerprints and be fine. If you want the results the description promises and reviews suggest you will go through at least two sets.

I'm a perfectionist and took my time.. so if you dont care and you dont mind bubbles or dust or fingerprints or you dont notice it then great. Otherwise, I recommend not going with this. Also, this does not protect against drops on any level and should not be considered as a fall guard.

[theotherrogue]

After a full day of having my BodyGuardz applied, I can say that it looks absolutely gorgeous! It really doesn't look like there's anything on the iPhone, and the edges have stayed down perfectly. No problems to report.

There is nothing better than the look and feel of the iPhone without a case. :)

[TB07-NJ]

My Bodyguardz experience was pretty good. I'm not a perfectionist and can live with minor imperfections due to my install (not their product). After all, it's only a phone. Black phone by the way.

Screen: Flawlessly went on and once dried can't even tell it is there.

Back: First problem was when I peeled off the film from the backing it "broke" the thin connecting point where the top fold over connects to the back on 1 side because it was so stiuck to the paper. No big deal. Aligning it was a b1tch. When too wet it slides all over the place, when not wet enough you can't repostion it. Again, it's just a learing curve. This would happen with any of these skins. Corners, a tough job. Alignment is everything and with the curved back it ain't easy. Ultimately, when it dried the front is flawless and the back shows some carelessness on my part. A couple dried "pimples" and the corners aren't as flat and smooth as I would have liked.

All in all, the final "look" depends entirely on your patience and acceptance of minor blemishes caused by imperfect alignment or a dried bubble or 2.

I'd give it a B+ overall. I'm not anal over getting an absolutely perfect installation, I just want the protection from my keys and moving around the desk. For protection it does it's job perfectly. For looks, no matter what skin you get it's going to depend 99% on your patience and skills in application no matter what anyone says.

[cutta2k4]

New to the Board (well newly registered)

Apple convert from WM...........More on that at another time!

I am currently using the bodyguarz on my 16GB black........It looks and feels great. Here are some tips and my overall opinion of the product....

Tip #1: TAKE YOU TIME!(wish I took more time and had more patience) apply and re-apply until you get the alignment as perfect as you need! use the spray to keep the skin wet and use the post it notes Trick if you can (wish I knew about this before).....

Tip#2: The hardest thing is getting the alignment part perfect from left to right(this is were I went wrong,slightly off on left to right aligment)....this can throw off the skin and cause little imperfections at the corners (etc. raised little corners, overlap of skin)....Use the camera and other aspects as a guide! but dont rely solely on camera hole!

Tip#3: If even after careful application you have air bubbles!.......LEAVE THEM ALONE......once device dries they usually shrink and then you smooth them out carefully by pressing them and smoothing them out with provided little card.

Tip#4: On front screen protector application..........make sure aligment is spot on! if your off on aligment then little areas of dust will gather around the home button and even the ear microphone..........and around screen borders.........it looks awful when dust collects......but this is hard to avoid...specially around home button.....nit picky I know lol

Overall I love the skin and as time passes it looks better and better as it forms around the unit............the screen protector is absolutely great! You really cant go wrong with bodyguarzd..........plus you have one more skin to use down the line.

Pictures will be added tonight! Can see were I went right and were I went wrong lol

[cutta2k4]

:cool:New to the Board (well newly registered)

Apple convert from WM...........More on that at another time!

I am currently using the bodyguarz on my 16GB black........It looks and feels great. Here are some tips and my overall opinion of the product....

Tip #1: TAKE YOUR TIME!(wish I took more time and had more patience) apply and re-apply until you get the alignment as perfect as you need! use the spray to keep the skin wet and use the post it notes Trick if you can (wish I knew about this before).....

Tip#2: The hardest thing is getting the alignment part perfect from left to right(this is were I went wrong,slightly off on left to right aligment)....this can throw off the skin and cause little imperfections at the corners (etc. raised little corners, overlap of skin)....Use the camera and other aspects as a guide! but dont rely solely on camera hole!

Tip#3: If even after careful application you have air bubbles!.......LEAVE THEM ALONE!.......I kept playing with them and making them worse!.....once device dries they usually shrink and then you smooth them out carefully by pressing them and smoothing them out with provided little card. Many of the air bubbles I had (that I did not tinker with initially) just smooth out within couple days!

Tip#4: On front screen protector application..........make sure aligment is spot on! if your off on aligment then little areas of dust will gather around the home button and even the ear microphone..........and around screen borders.........it looks awful when dust collects......but this is hard to avoid...specially around home button.....nit picky I know lol

Overall I love the skin and as time passes it looks better and better as it forms around the unit............the screen protector is absolutely great! You really cant go wrong with bodyguarzd..........plus you have one more skin to use down the line.

Pictures will be added tonight! Can see were I went right and were I went wrong lol

[JackSpearo]

I think there are a lot of sketchy reviews!

it baffles me companies would put up reviews and what not...

about a freakin film for an iphone...

[Donz0r]

I think there are a lot of sketchy reviews!

it baffles me companies would put up reviews and what not...

about a freakin film for an iphone...


Yeah, pics don't lie though, and there's pics of invisible shield and bodyguardz and ghost armor in this forum, so you can compare for yourself. I got bodygaurdz because Invisible Shield is not "Invisible" :rolleyes: looks like ''orange peel'' finish, and Ghost Armor has an army of trolls in this forum pimping their product. Bodyguardz shipped in 1 day and these pics make it look sweet.

[JackSpearo]

yea well, they could be fixed too...

but whatever, if the pics look good, they look good...

I came super close to buying the invisibleshield but didn't because of the freaking 25th ship date... So I joined the forums, started browsing, came close to buying the ghost armor, but then saw this review about bodyguardz, went to their site and was sold (for some reason the news thing really dragged me in, I figured if it was on the news and it passed their test, then why not)

it shipped on the 16th from Utah, and I'm in SC...ARGHHHHH

praying it comes tomorrow, but I think it will be monday...and no, I won't be posting pics lol, it's just a freakin cover, but I am appreciative to the guys who do post pics! Plus, I'd be labeled as a new guy who joined in July with X amount of posts therefore I'm a spy or something, so I'm just gonna say yes I like it, no I don't like it, and how difficult it was to put on...

Cheers!

Jack

[pyrodex]

New to the Board (well newly registered)

Apple convert from WM...........More on that at another time!

I am currently using the bodyguarz on my 16GB black........It looks and feels great. Here are some tips and my overall opinion of the product....

Tip #1: TAKE YOU TIME!(wish I took more time and had more patience) apply and re-apply until you get the alignment as perfect as you need! use the spray to keep the skin wet and use the post it notes Trick if you can (wish I knew about this before).....


Whats the post it note trick?

[chas0001]

I am a big fan of Bodyguardz skin as there appears to be less dimpling. As with all skins they can be a complete git to apply. I have tried other skins too.

[brandonzar]

I installed my bodyguardz about 2 days ago and I managed to get it pretty good on the first try. The back is a little difficult but its manageable. I did end up with a few large air bubbles but just as they say in the video the bubbles are fading with time. I also had some very small bubbles on the corner edges due to my misplacement of the back but I managed to cut them off very cleanly using a sickle shaped exacto blade. Overall I like the look of these better than the invisible shields I have seen on other iPhones, they are just as hard to put on though. I used nitrile gloves that were three sizes too small to avoid finger prints and it worked very well, if you try this make sure the gloves are very tight, that they aren't powdered, and wash them before you start. I also did the application near an open flame (bunsen burner) to keep the dust in the air down and it worked really well (be careful if you try this) I don't see anything trapped under the film. I'd post some pictures, but my camera won't focus well enough to get any good ones.

[kleinishere]

I installed my bodyguardz about 2 days ago and I managed to get it pretty good on the first try. The back is a little difficult but its manageable. I did end up with a few large air bubbles but just as they say in the video the bubbles are fading with time. I also had some very small bubbles on the corner edges due to my misplacement of the back but I managed to cut them off very cleanly using a sickle shaped exacto blade. Overall I like the look of these better than the invisible shields I have seen on other iPhones, they are just as hard to put on though. I used nitrile gloves that were three sizes too small to avoid finger prints and it worked very well, if you try this make sure the gloves are very tight, that they aren't powdered, and wash them before you start. I also did the application near an open flame (bunsen burner) to keep the dust in the air down and it worked really well (be careful if you try this) I don't see anything trapped under the film. I'd post some pictures, but my camera won't focus well enough to get any good ones.

That sounds like quite an arsenal of tools. You wouldn't happen to be some kind of chemist would you?

[brandonzar]

That sounds like quite an arsenal of tools. You wouldn't happen to be some kind of chemist would you?

Yeah, I'm a bio-organic chemist, I installed it in the lab. I also used dry nitrogen gas instead of a hair dryer, it worked great. Being in a lab has lots of advantages. :D

[JackSpearo]

I just got my bodyguardz in the mail...

ordered on the 16th, and arrived here in SC today all the way from Utah, not bad!

but, i'm freakin' scared to even start it!

long day at work, and I dont need any more frustration!

think I might get some latex powder free gloves and do it tomorrow!

[meagain]

I don't see the value in gloves. Just wash your hands well and keep any regular towels and papertowels away from everything. Only dab around the edges with microfiber or a good quality. Wet your fingers thoroughly and they'll be fine without gloves. I never heard of anyone using gloves before. :)

[brandonzar]

The gloves are probably totally pointless for the front, but for the back I was really glad I had them on. The liquid won't dry as quickly from the gloves, and you will probably have to pull the film up a few times which is when the finger prints will start to appear. I'd get nitrile though, latex gloves are really stretchy and may be a pain if they start sticking to the back.

[JackSpearo]

hmmm I guess you are right, I dont need gloves...

did you put it on in a very dry environment?

I've read to do it in a steamy bathroom too...

hmmm

how did you clean your iphone? just with the microfiber cloth? or with any other solution?

thanks!

Jack

PS, i dont have a microfiber cloth, but I do have a super soft cloth for sunglasses!

[pflau]

I would like to point out that not all microfiber clothes are lintless!!!

Actually I am putting BodyGuardz on my iPhone 3G right now. I will post a blow by blow afterward.

[cheapa55]

Looking forward to more pics. I also ordered on 16th, just 3 minutes before their cutoff time, it did ship that day and I received it today. Amazing speed!!! FYI, I ordered IS on 4th and still not here. LOL

[JackSpearo]

alright, i started the process

and it sucks so far...

not that bad, just vastly time consuming...

it's not easy like the freakin' box says...

I did wear gloves, which has helped A LOT

secondly, I accidentally scratched the back near the silver apple logo while trying to put on the front...which really makes me so mad...because I barely did anything, must have been microscopic debris on the table...

anyways, I put on the back, and the scratch has seemed to have disappeared..

however, I CANT KEEP THE CORNERS DOWN, only 1 side, the other corners KEEP COMING UP and I don't know what to do

they seem really dry

arghhhh any thoughts?

[brandonzar]

just do as the instructions say and let it sit for 15 min. as long as no dust gets under the corners they will get sticky and go down just fine. Mine didn't look that great at first, but the longer I've waited the better it has gotten.

[kovalchuk71]

Has anyones looked straight up bad and turned out great? I have a LOT of bubbles, and was wondering if they will all go away or not.

[JackSpearo]

my back has some bubbles in it too, man I'd hate to redo the darn thing..

does anyone think they'll come out?

how the heck do they come out on their own?

[acrahm]

i did mine last night in about 10-15 min, and the front was perfect, looks awesome, the back is about 75-80% good, the corners are a little rough, but all and all i am not too worried about how the back corners look as long as it protects, i was very impressed by how easy the whole process was. i would highly recommend it!

[brandonzar]

I had several large bubbles with that hazy appearance and they are almost completely gone after three days.

[iPhoneJunky]

I'm still waiting on my iPhone but I wasn't planning on getting any front and especially back cover …until reading this forum that is. Now, I’m confused.

Did the old iPhone get scratched easily or what am I missing? I figured that after 1-2 years I'll have to replace the phone anyways, right? So how bad does it scratch? I never had any screen cover on my Verizon Treo and it looked just fine – are you saying that iPhone scratches more easily?

[brandonzar]

No the screen of the iPhone is actually more durable than the Treo. It can scratch if rubbed with something hard like tungsten carbide or diamond. The film is basically just a little extra insurance, I personally don't think the screen needs the protection, I just put it on to practice for the back. The back is plastic so if you want to keep it looking like new I would definitly cover it with something. The main benefit is that as long as you don't drop it, the phone will look like new when you need to sell it because the next iPhone came out.

[iPhoneJunky]

No the screen of the iPhone is actually more durable than the Treo.
I see, thanks it makes me feel better. Maybe I'm being sacrilegious here ;) but I am not going to use any screen or back protection on my phone, it's only $299 and if I have to get a new one a year or two later - well, heck I'll spend more on gas in a month, sometimes week than that... :D

[jjahn]

I put the BodyGuardz on two different black 3G iPhone.
The first one went on better with no bubbles, but the corners are raised at the junction between the two edges. Very frustrating because the edge sticks up and is irritating.

On the other iPhone the corners worked better but some of the bubbles haven't disappeared after 72 hours.

I was going to try again because the skins do look and feel nice.

[pflau]

I put the BodyGuardz on two different black 3G iPhone.
The first one went on better with no bubbles, but the corners are raised at the junction between the two edges. Very frustrating because the edge sticks up and is irritating

That is EXACTLY the problem I am having at this time. They should really cut the corners the way InvisibleShield does, with a little circular cutout at the junction to relieve the pressure.

[cambridge1807]

I'm not sure if this has ben covered been asked/covered yet or not, but what do you use to clean off your iPhone before applying? Do you just spray the phone with water and wipe with a microfiber towel? Did you cover up the headphone jack, to make sure no water/solution gets inside to trigger the water sensor?

[meagain]

Maybe stick the tip of a q-tip in there

[Ouhei]

How does it do for not letting the phone get smudges? I got the PS anti-glare now but I'd like to stop smudges on the back and find something tht was a little more clear for the screen.

[brandonzar]

I'm not sure if this has ben covered been asked/covered yet or not, but what do you use to clean off your iPhone before applying? Do you just spray the phone with water and wipe with a microfiber towel? Did you cover up the headphone jack, to make sure no water/solution gets inside to trigger the water sensor?

I couldn't find the water sensor so I didn't worry about it (if you look in the headphone jack their doesn't appear to be one). I found that even after wiping the phone down with a microfiber cloth there was still some lint so I blew it off with some canned air, this seemed to get rid of all the lint.

[MiniMini]

I just received my Bodyguardz in the mail today. I order the B.G. (even after my Best Skins Ever one has already been shipped) because after checking out the forums, I realized that B.G. ones got the chrome part covered.

So the trickiest part is:
1) Lining the firm up. Especially the left and right side, making sure the entire chrome is covered.

2) Keeping the dust away.


I ended up using BOTH sheets. For the 1st time, the sheet is placed more to the camera side (instead of the volume button side), hence one side of the chrome is not completely covered. As I wanted to use my iPhone with this shield on ONLY, after some hesitation (as it was getting close to my bed time), I decided to do everything againi to make sure that I got ALL of the chrome part covered.

After knowing how the firm is cut, I managed to line it up "perfectly", except that this time I wasn't careful and patient enough and I quite a lot of dust under my B.G. (probably because it'd took me some time to line things up perfectly and dust happened to slip under the firm as time went by).

So I got the first one, 90% perfectly lined up, and almost free-of dust, and the 2nd one, 98% lined up, but with a few noticeable dust-spots. Am I going to get another firm? Yea, I will get one for my future replacement (my I.S. on my MBP is turning yellowish) but I'm going to settle with what I have for now. I'm a perfectionist but I really don't feel like spending so much energy, HOPING that my next application will be better than the previous ones.


Tips:
1) Get the firm WET! WET! WET! (so that you can realign it again and again)
2) Clean your work area first! (you can be lazy, but you are going to live with the dust that is buried underneath)
3) The firm is cut so precisely that there is no excess part to any side of the chrome. Make sure that you don't line the firm a little more than you needed to cover a side, otherwise, you will realize that there isn't enough firm to cover the other side.


P.S. I have applied a Invisible Shield on my MBP and two iPod Touches and one Best Skin Ever on my Apple Remote.

[pflau]

As I have mentioned I already got the BG since Friday and I will give a blow-by-blow soon after everything settles down. I would have addressed the fit and the dusts situation. You all just need to be a little patient.

[dawg521]

This will be my first iPhone and I was reading all the reviews for the various skins (BSE, IS, GA, and BG). After seeing photos of them all and reading all the posts and reviews, I decided to go with the BG. Even though the application may look a little tedious, it seems to be the best fitting (covering the entire phone) and best looking. I do plan on getting a PS-Anti-Glare for the screen though to supplement.

Has anybody had any trouble with putting your phone in a case with the BG applied? Just wondering...

BTW, I ordered my BG at 2:40 PM today and I got a shipping confirmation at 5:40! Still waiting on my Black 16 GB though, but it'll be here soon...hopefully before Christmas :cool:

[Jager1726]

What's the advantage of the power support crystal/anti-glare films? Why get one over just using the front BG film? And what's the difference between the crystal and the anti-glare?

[meagain]

The Power Support Crystal Shield is just like the glass. That's the advantage.
I've no experience with the Anti-glare.

[Jowl]

I'm *still* trying to find a UK supplier of Bodyguardz :(

[joshysquashy]

I'm *still* trying to find a UK supplier of Bodyguardz :(

Same here! Anyone know where to buy it in the UK?

[drew0020]

I purchased these, Zagg and also the BSE. I consider myself very good at applying these types of shields. Bodyguardz and BSE shipped very fast! Just got the Zagg yesterday (very slow shipping) and havent installed that yet.

The Bodyguardz is VERY difficult to install. I finally got all of my corners applied (almost perfectly with no creases), but every now and then they bubble out a little bit which annoys me to no end. The bigger problem is the air bubbles on the back of the phone. I cant get rid of these. Its only been 24 hours, but I am losing hope that they will go away. I am thinking about using my 2nd cover and reapplying tonight, but not sure what if anything I can do better?

Any other installation tips? Like I said I have applied over 10 of these types of covers and consider myself very good at this process, but Bodyguardz is truly testing me!

[CKtoph]

I also just applied my BG skin. Everything looks great except for the same exact problem that everyone else seems to be having...the corners are raising at the junctions. There's one corner that I actually cut a little bit because it was causing some issues during application, and that's the one corner that's currently perfect.

Luckily, I still have one more skin. I'll probably cut all 4 corners this time and see how it turns out.

By the way, I like the plastic BG uses much more than the Invisibleshield

[drew0020]

I also just applied my BG skin. Everything looks great except for the same exact problem that everyone else seems to be having...the corners are raising at the junctions. There's one corner that I actually cut a little bit because it was causing some issues during application, and that's the one corner that's currently perfect.

Luckily, I still have one more skin. I'll probably cut all 4 corners this time and see how it turns out.

By the way, I like the plastic BG uses much more than the Invisibleshield

How did you get the bubbles off from the back?? I can live with my corners. 3/4 are excellent. One is giving me a slight problem, but the bubbles on the back are awful!

[CKtoph]

How did you get the bubbles off from the back?? I can live with my corners. 3/4 are excellent. One is giving me a slight problem, but the bubbles on the back are awful!

I got rid of all of the larger bubbles during installation. I basically did it like the video on the BG website. Using the card to get out bubbles as I applied. There are still a few small bubbles left, but it's been less than 24 hours since I applied the skin, so I'm still trusting that they will go away over the next day or two.

[BLACK MAC]

The bubbles will go away with time. If you want try the blow dryer as they mentioned. That should speed it up.

[brandonzar]

The bubbles will go away with time. If you want try the blow dryer as they mentioned. That should speed it up.

x2 The bubbles really do disappear after a few days. I had several large bubbles on the back after I did the install but they are all gone now, just be patient. I also had problems with bubbles on the inside edges of the corners and I just used a sickle shaped exacto knife blade to cut them off. The film now looks great with no bubbles anywhere.

[HaroldC]

I just installed the BG last night, and while it was a pain (as everyone who has installed a film knows) it was better than the IS I recently had on the iphone. I think a lot of the improvement had to be on the installation part of it rather than the actual film itself.

I did notice a few differences:
1. the BG was already cutout, making removal from the backing relatively easy. On the IS, the cutouts are only perforated, not removed from the backing. The backing was also perforated, making removal challenging with wet fingers!
2. The IS film is a little tackier than the BG film. I actually like the tackiness of the IS, it didn't slide as easily on a smooth surface or my hand.
3. as stated before, the BG covers the entire chrome trim, while the IS leaves around 1-2mm of the chrome exposed.

A few tips & tricks that I discovered:
1. instead of spraying the film with the solution, I made my own out of dish soap and water and filled a tupperware container with it. I then dunked the film into the container, getting the entire film wet. This made it easier to slide around and I didn't need to grab the spray bottle.
2. once you have it aligned perfectly, then squeegee a small portion of the center of the back, this will adhere the film to the phone. Then work towards each corner/side from the center - thus reducing the likelihood of getting bubbles trapped in the film.
3. if the corners are wet and won't stay down, let it dry for 15 - 30 minutes. I actually had dinner while I waited for the corners to get tacky.
4. when working the corners, it helps to push down on the film and hold it there for ~1 min or more. Watching tv or listening to music helps pass the time.

I'm no expert (2nd time) and my BG is not 100% aligned, but it's pretty close. Good enough for now, there's just one side where a little of the film is protruding past the chrome. If it stays put, then I'll just leave it alone. If not, at least I have a 2nd film to use.

Good luck! and more importantly - Be Patient!

[dawg521]

can anyone who has had their BG on the front screen report how it does to reduce the smudges and fingerprints?

[Jager1726]

After reading as much as I could on these forums and checking out iLounge's reviews, I decided to go with the FullBodyFilms Protection Pack (http://www.fullbodyfilms.com/The_Protection_Pack.html). They don't say it directly on the website, but according to iLounge, this is basically the back piece from BodyGuardz, and both the Crystal and Anti-Glare front pieces from PS (you can choose which you want to put on), all for just $17+$2 shipping for the 3G. There are pros and cons, but I decided that this gave me a chance to try the most number of different products for the least price. Based on another thread about the PS Anti-Glare's smudge/fingerprint-removing properties, I am very excited, and if it doesn't work out I'll always have the Crystal.

[SimplyBlue]

So people are reporting the BG skins being scratcheable -

http://forums.macrumors.com/showthread.php?t=527473

Any other users experiencing this?

[Next Tuesday]

So people are reporting the BG skins being scratcheable -

http://forums.macrumors.com/showthread.php?t=527473

Any other users experiencing this?

I have the IS and BG. I used the same key to scratch both skins. The IS shows not one scratch. The BG shows every single key scratch i made. Im returning the BG.

[dawg521]

I have the IS and BG. I used the same key to scratch both skins. The IS shows not one scratch. The BG shows every single key scratch i made. Im returning the BG.

Was this on the front or back piece?

[Next Tuesday]

Was this on the front or back piece?

The front and back pieces are the same on both skins. I carry my phone in my pocket and scratch resistance is what i want and need. I will put the IS on. BG gives u two skins because apparently, it will scratch and look like crap after a few weeks. I had the IS on my gen 1 iphone for over 8 months and not a single scratch or anything. I removed the skin when i purchased my 3g iphone and it looked brand new. Zero scratches.

[nizmoz]

Had a Invisible Shield for 10 minutes on my iphone 3g. Removed it. It looked like CRAP. What a waste of money.

[Next Tuesday]

Had a Invisible Shield for 10 minutes on my iphone 3g. Removed it. It looked like CRAP. What a waste of money.

10 MInutes? LOL. You prolly did it wrong or something. It takes a day to dry and cure. Also, you can send the IS back and get a full refund. Next time, follow directions and wait the allotted time for curing. IS is the only skin that u cant scratch. I tested the BSE, IS and BG.

[nizmoz]

10 MInutes? LOL. You prolly did it wrong or something. It takes a day to dry and cure. Also, you can send the IS back and get a full refund. Next time, follow directions and wait the allotted time for curing. IS is the only skin that u cant scratch. I tested the BSE, IS and BG.


I tried the directions to a T. It is almost the same film that use on cars for clear front end protection. I have installed those as well. This film look like crap and didn't exactly cover everything well.

[Next Tuesday]

I tried the directions to a T. It is almost the same film that use on cars for clear front end protection. I have installed those as well. This film look like crap and didn't exactly cover everything well.

It looked like crap from user error. Mine looks super nice and covers everything. YOu have to take your time with these things. Took me about 30-45 mins.

[nizmoz]

It looked like crap from user error. Mine looks super nice and covers everything. YOu have to take your time with these things. Took me about 30-45 mins.

Seems I am not alone about it not covering well. Yes I am well aware of it taking time to put on. Wish it was user error. :rolleyes:

[Next Tuesday]

Seems I am not alone about it not covering well. Yes I am well aware of it taking time to put on. Wish it was user error. :rolleyes:

Ehh, to each his own.

[brock2621]

Would somebody be so kind as to post pictures of the scratches on their bodyguardz? I got mine in today and am debating on whether to send it back. I HATE the orange peel on the IS but like the protection. I HATE the scratches on the bodyguardz but love the clarity.

Anywayz, if anybody has time i'm sure everyone would greatly appreciate it! :)

[SimplyBlue]

Would somebody be so kind as to post pictures of the scratches on their bodyguardz? I got mine in today and am debating on whether to send it back. I HATE the orange peel on the IS but like the protection. I HATE the scratches on the bodyguardz but love the clarity.

Anywayz, if anybody has time i'm sure everyone would greatly appreciate it! :)

The orange peel/texture is what turned me off of the IS skins.

[BLACK MAC]

I'd rather use saran wrap then IS! :D

[dawg521]

The orange peel/texture is what turned me off of the IS skins.

+1 on the photos...that would help me out a lot when i decide to put the skins on.

[uicandrew]

one advantage of the BodyGuardz is that they include 2 sets, right off the bat. If you mess up (regardless of fault), you can replace it right away, instead of having to wait.

i waited too long to "squeegee" the big bubbles on the front, so there are ripples on the front of the phone. i'm hoping it will go away in a week or 2 but if it doesn't, then i can replace it right away.

[heyp]

i thought i had done a pretty decent job on the back with a few bubbles but the corners are poking up a bit, pretty annoying... i may have to give it another go tonight with the second back film

for those that installed it, roughly how many hours until all the bubbles disappeared? how long did you wait until you began using the phone again?

[kmay37]

I have installed my BG on the 3g and it looks and works great. It has been 36 hours, and I still have some bubbles on the back but they are gradually getting smaller. My corners are still kind up up which makes me kind of upset. Because after I put it on i kept pushing the corners down for like an hour after and they would lay down flat and look amazing then 5 min later they were back up...oh well i am just going to cut them. The screen is amazingly clear and works and feels great still.

[dawg521]

2 questions for those with BG's applied already to their iPhone:

1. How does it do with repelling fingerprints and smudges (front and backsides)?

2. How well does it prevent against scratching (especially the screen) since there are conflicting reports on the forums?

If you can post pics of any defects, scratches, etc., or even more finished application photos that would be great (i know there are some at the beginning but more would be nice). Thanks! :apple:

[drew0020]

I have installed my BG on the 3g and it looks and works great. It has been 36 hours, and I still have some bubbles on the back but they are gradually getting smaller. My corners are still kind up up which makes me kind of upset. Because after I put it on i kept pushing the corners down for like an hour after and they would lay down flat and look amazing then 5 min later they were back up...oh well i am just going to cut them. The screen is amazingly clear and works and feels great still.

Same problems with the corners on my bodyguardz. They were all down last night and now they pop up slightly. I have no idea how to get them to stay down?

[born4sky]

Just applied mine, it's not that hard took me about 30 min. Looks good though however there few bubbles I hope they will go away tomorrow or so.

Hint: start applying it from volume button ... than its very easy

[SimplyBlue]

+1 on the photos...that would help me out a lot when i decide to put the skins on.

Can see them in this thread -

http://forums.macrumors.com/showthread.php?t=525250

[calvy]

I want to thank the OP for this thread. I have decided that I do not want to waste my time on BodyGuardz or BSE or any of the similar brands. I can tell from your pictures I won't like this. The corners and the edges look like crap in my opinion. You can always see the edges, they collect dust and crud, and the corners don't wrap very well.

I guess to each their own obviously. But I still view these things the same way I view people who put plastic covers over their furniture....you are ruining the enjoyment of the item you are trying to protect. Just 2 cents, carry on.

[BLACK MAC]

Would somebody be so kind as to post pictures of the scratches on their bodyguardz? I got mine in today and am debating on whether to send it back. I HATE the orange peel on the IS but like the protection. I HATE the scratches on the bodyguardz but love the clarity.

Anywayz, if anybody has time i'm sure everyone would greatly appreciate it! :)

The scratches on the bodyguardz fades away within time. I scracthed mine on purpose last night. In fact scracthed it over and over again. I woke up this morning and every single scratch was gone! Mind you I took a key to it to do this. So I feel like it will stand up to the beatings of your pockets.

[dawg521]

The scratches on the bodyguardz fades away within time. I scracthed mine on purpose last night. In fact scracthed it over and over again. I woke up this morning and every single scratch was gone! Mind you I took a key to it to do this. So I feel like it will stand up to the beatings of your pockets.

Thanks Black Mac, thats what I wanted to know!

[born4sky]

I want to thank the OP for this thread. I have decided that I do not want to waste my time on BodyGuardz or BSE or any of the similar brands. I can tell from your pictures I won't like this. The corners and the edges look like crap in my opinion. You can always see the edges, they collect dust and crud, and the corners don't wrap very well.

I guess to each their own obviously. But I still view these things the same way I view people who put plastic covers over their furniture....you are ruining the enjoyment of the item you are trying to protect. Just 2 cents, carry on.

so far what I c it's not that bad

[qwik3r]

looks to better than InvisibleSHIELD, please post more pics I loved my InvisibleSHIELD on my first gen iPhone but this really looks as nice if not better can't wait to see the back on it to see how it fits on it.

lol how can you even say that it looks better then the invisible shield, the post you made was directly after he showed pictures of the film covered in water, it looked horrible...

[heyp]

so I got some thread stuck underneath the film near the power button... it's been less than 24 hours since I applied that part, any chance I can lift up that section and redo it or should I not even bother?

[kmay37]

Does anyone know if the bubbles can still disappear after 72 hours or are they just there forever? I guess I didn't do a great job because it has been about 60 hours now and I still have quite a few bubbles on the back....although they are fairly small, I was just wondering if they will still disappear?

[BLACK MAC]

Does anyone know if the bubbles can still disappear after 72 hours or are they just there forever? I guess I didn't do a great job because it has been about 60 hours now and I still have quite a few bubbles on the back....although they are fairly small, I was just wondering if they will still disappear?

They should. You can take a hair dryer to them if you want. Make sure you set the temp to low/cool.

[gdeputy]

so my bodyguardz came in the mail today. I'm off to work, but when I get home I plan on putting it on. I'll update with what I think of it, i sure hope it works out alright and covers everything. If this isn't what I want either I'll just buy a pouch (like a foofpod), because at this point i've already spent like 60$ on protection for my phone.

[pflau]

so I got some thread stuck underneath the film near the power button... it's been less than 24 hours since I applied that part, any chance I can lift up that section and redo it or should I not even bother?

Yes you can lift it up and redo it. Use the film's original backing paper to get underneath the film to lift it up. Wet your finger and use the finger nail to remove the thread. Wet the film under and reapply.

[gdeputy]

so my bodyguardz came in the mail today. I'm off to work, but when I get home I plan on putting it on. I'll update with what I think of it, i sure hope it works out alright and covers everything. If this isn't what I want either I'll just buy a pouch (like a foofpod), because at this point i've already spent like 60$ on protection for my phone.


Applied the bodyguardz. It's about 30 minutes after.. and i dont have that much haze.. or bubbles.. but im sorta upset that one side of my chrome bezel is like 80% covered but a tiny amount isn't. I think i'm just going to get a pouch for the phone or like a microfiber sleeve. I'm pretty happy with the way it turned out after all the horror stories i read on here, but the bezel was like really important to me so for it to be a tiny bit off is dissapointing. I'm pretty sure it's the BG and not me because ALL my holes line up perfectly and every other side of the bezel is PERFECT.. like not even a tiny bit more than necessary,

that leads me to beleive it was cut a TINNY bit off. Oh well, for the most part aside from the corners (they arent fully covered.. its just the nature of the case) im happy.

Theres also some .. fuzzy stuff on one of the bezel covers (surely some sort of fiber from when I was repositioning the back..which is sort of dissapointing, but since the install went pretty good aside from that i think i'll leave it.. as long as it doesn't scratch
My question is, when can I turn my iPhone on again??

[gdeputy]

Applied the bodyguardz. It's about 30 minutes after.. and i dont have that much haze.. or bubbles.. but im sorta upset that one side of my chrome bezel is like 80% covered but a tiny amount isn't. I think i'm just going to get a pouch for the phone or like a microfiber sleeve. I'm pretty happy with the way it turned out after all the horror stories i read on here, but the bezel was like really important to me so for it to be a tiny bit off is dissapointing. I'm pretty sure it's the BG and not me because ALL my holes line up perfectly and every other side of the bezel is PERFECT.. like not even a tiny bit more than necessary,

that leads me to beleive it was cut a TINNY bit off. Oh well, for the most part aside from the corners (they arent fully covered.. its just the nature of the case) im happy.

Theres also some .. fuzzy stuff on one of the bezel covers (surely some sort of fiber from when I was repositioning the back..which is sort of dissapointing, but since the install went pretty good aside from that i think i'll leave it.. as long as it doesn't scratch
My question is, when can I turn my iPhone on again??

So i've let the iPhone sit for 13 hours, finally powered it on. There is still MINOR haze.. and a few bubbles.. quite small though. And my corners are nearly perfect. There is a 'hair' on the back, which is sorta annoying but if my phone is scratch proof im cool with that. The bezel like I mentioned ealrier has some fibers underneath it too, but no big deal..

I don't have a digital cam handy so i took a pic in a mirror with the iPhone, hopefully its clear enough to give you an idea. The back is nearly flawless you really can barely tell its on only cause the haze.. im sure in 24 hours it will look awesome.

[meagain]

It looks nice. I'm going to do our 2 phones tomorrow. I'm going to try to not worry about imperfections as we can always yank it off in a few months and re-do. The product is affordable enough.

[xandui]

After getting sick of waiting for my invisibleshield preorder to ship (which i had placed on July 1st!) i decided to cancel it and just stick with my case. The problem became that my brother's white iphone doesnt show scratches at all on the back so he was comfortable using it without a case which made me extremely jealous because my case ridden black iphone looked chubby and not as cool by comparsion. After seeing the orange peel effect on my bro's IS which he got from bestbuy (obviously the front only) and hating the orange peel effect i ordered a front back pack from bodyguardz a couple of days ago and shipping it via priority got it to my place today (friday, only a couple days later) so not too shabby on the shipping.

Anyways i plan on trying to apply it today and will post my impressions on the whole process and whether it's worth the hassle later. And even though i feel like theres enough pics out there if people ask for them i will post.

[JackSpearo]

I have had my bodyguardz on for about a week now, I initially had 10 bubbles in the back, all of them disappeared!

there are a few, slight, wavy things in the back (only can see it if you look closely)

I've had SOOOO many people ask me, why don't you have a case on it :-)

each time it makes me happy!

the only thing bad about it is that one of my corners didn't go down all the way, and i have about 2 mm of dust that has collected on the corner, so I called bodyguardz and they will replace the back because the second back they sent me, was completely stuck to the second backup front!

arghhh!

so I think I should get that tonight!
It's a PAIN IN THE BUTT to put on, but soooo worth it!

-Jack

[UCLAkers]

After getting sick of waiting for my invisibleshield preorder to ship (which i had placed on July 1st!) i decided to cancel it and just stick with my case. The problem became that my brother's white iphone doesnt show scratches at all on the back so he was comfortable using it without a case which made me extremely jealous because my case ridden black iphone looked chubby and not as cool by comparsion. After seeing the orange peel effect on my bro's IS which he got from bestbuy (obviously the front only) and hating the orange peel effect i ordered a front back pack from bodyguardz a couple of days ago and shipping it via priority got it to my place today (friday, only a couple days later) so not too shabby on the shipping.

Anyways i plan on trying to apply it today and will post my impressions on the whole process and whether it's worth the hassle later. And even though i feel like theres enough pics out there if people ask for them i will post.

yes, would love to see pics. your bro isn't putting it on his white one too by any chance, is he? I know you said he had the IS skin on it already. but would love to see it on the white.

[cambridge1807]

When you ask for replacements, do you still have to pay a fee. I think I read it was something like $5 for shipping, but I wanted confirmation on that.

As for the Bodyguardz itself, I think it's a great product. I installed the back almost flawlessly except for a couple pieces of dust, but it's hard to tell on a black back. I got 2 of the corners down almost perfectly, but the bottom two still has a little bit of lift, and has accumulated some lint over a couple days. I might redo it with my 2nd black film this weekend. The texture is pretty good and I'm completely satisfied with the product.

[BLACK MAC]

When you ask for replacements, do you still have to pay a fee. I think I read it was something like $5 for shipping, but I wanted confirmation on that.

As for the Bodyguardz itself, I think it's a great product. I installed the back almost flawlessly except for a couple pieces of dust, but it's hard to tell on a black back. I got 2 of the corners down almost perfectly, but the bottom two still has a little bit of lift, and has accumulated some lint over a couple days. I might redo it with my 2nd black film this weekend. The texture is pretty good and I'm completely satisfied with the product.

Yes you do have to pay a $5 shipping fee. That includes one set (front and back) and the solution to apply it.

[xandui]

yes, would love to see pics. your bro isn't putting it on his white one too by any chance, is he? I know you said he had the IS skin on it already. but would love to see it on the white.

He only has IS on the front so assuming I dont destroy my first BG back in the install process i was planning on offering the second one to him and if i end up doing that id be more than happy to post some pics of the results. But frankly my black phone is the priority so i cant guarantee pics of the white one

[xandui]

Wow, cant say that wasnt the most hellish experience ive ever had.

Right off the bat i can recommend this over IS for one lone reason, forget the fact that both have that lifetime warrenty, if you want a protector on your phone the same day you start applying you will need 2. I am a pretty careful guy, good with my hands, and i used both protectors till i was happy. While the first set arent destroyed or anything and i even set them aside, you almost need them to practice until youre ready for the real deal.

The best tip i can give anyone for the back is START AT THE SIDE WITH THE VOLUME CONTROL AND THE SILENT SWITCH. Honestly i started going using the camera headphone jack method over and over and was always slightly off. After realizing most of my problems were that the BG was sitting on top of the volume rocker and the silent switch i started using those as my launching point and then orienting it to the camera and the headphone jack afterwards.

I didnt have as many corner problems as i had simply lining the back up. Honestly once youre confident you have it lined up as perfectly as you can just start using your hands and address each corner individually. They wont stay down at first but take your time and keep rotating the device going from corner to corner and i found that this approach led to the corners staying down a lot sooner than i was expecting.

Also more advice i consider important for corners is dont be afraid to trim a tiny bit off of one of the flaps at a corner. I say this as someone who planned on never cutting this thing before i started but honestly a couple of corners had flaps overlapping by about one millimeter which was keeping both flaps from being able to stick properly. Simply shortening one of the flaps by as little as possible solved the problem.

Now i DO have several air bubbles on the back and streak marks on the front so im gonna wait for this whole "curing" witchcraft to do its thing before posting pictures and going too heavy with any praise/insults.

Regards of how that works out let me say that this isnt for the feint of heart or the weak of stomach. IT will require incredible amounts of patience and incredible amounts of you spraying tons of liquid over your two to three hundred dollar iphone. If you are missing either component save yourself some money and dont do this.

One comment i can make on the whole IS vs BG is that i found the bodyguards adhearing to the phone much more quickly than the IS i installed for my brother. Even with insane amounts of spray it would almost instantly start sticking to a point and only after forcing it to slide around alot was a able to align it properly.

I didnt find the same issue to be as bad on the IS but the famous orange peel effect on the BG is next to nothing compared to the fruit my bro refers to his iphone so im still happier i went with this one.....so far.

Also make sure to triple check your front before moving on to the back. I looked mine over a million times and found no problems then after finally finishing the back and thinking i was done i looked and saw a fairly noticeable hear stuck underneath the front. Knowing myself i knew it would drive me insane so i carefully lifted up the side of the front it was under, removed it, and resparyed and reapplied that side. Didnt streach or anything so i was relived.

Ill post a couple of photos of it now and then take some more in a day or two so we can find out together if these bubbles do really disappear on their own.

[xandui]

Some pics, help me pray for the back to get better, front already seems better then when i finished.

[pflau]

To line up the back PERFECTLY so that you don't have any of the flaps overlap follow this procedure VERY CAREFLULLY.

You need to line up the back basically along three directions. Vertically, horizontally on the upper half, and horizontally on the lower half.

FIRST align the back horizontally on the upper half. You do that by lining up the camera hold PRECISELY around the camera. You HAVE TO make sure there is no plastic not covered. The camera hold is cut EXTREMELY PRECISE so that ALL SURROUNDING PLASTIC is covered and only the silver ring around the camera is exposed. If you don't make sure of that your placement would be off and you will have to redo it either because your flaps overlap or you have extra film material on one side sticking out from the bezel and not enough material on the other side to cover the bezel and all that.

SECOND align the bottom horizontally using the speaker and the mic openings. The speaker/mic cutout of the bottom of the film must surround the speaker and mic precisely with equal distance between the edge of the film's cutout and the speaker or the mic.

THIRD align the film vertically using the volume switch. Carefully bend the film over the volume switch and make sure none of the film covers any part of the volumn switch. If you have positioned the camera opening precisely as I mentioned the film would fold over the volume switch exactly.

Now when everything is perfect. You can leave the film alone for 15 min for it to set so when you squeegee the bubbles out you don't move the film out of position.

[xandui]

Well I can say that after one night the front already looks perfect while the back is definitely making progress. Less air bubbles already and the only remaining ones are noticeably smaller.

[Dizle]

my front went on well and looks almost perfect only after about 10 hours, are you guys doing it in a steamed bathroom or no steam from the shower? The first back I put on 3 out of the 4 corners were effed and I couldnt get them to sit down even after the blow drier and lots of time. Will go at it again later today.

[pflau]

For those who are having PROBLEMS getting the CORNERS down.. I have just thought of a SOLUTION. I would not know if it will work until I try it. I have not posted a blow-by-blow of how I applied my BodyGuardz precisely as I have not solved the corner issue.

But I will need to try out my new plan first. I say it has about 90% chance of working. Let me just say it does involve cutting the skin but it does not involve removing of materials and it should be invisible after all is said and done.

[brock2621]

I have a crapton of bubbles on mine. Some are quite large. Will they go away or should i just try again.

Also, does anybody know the solution amounts to mix your own? I used all of mine VERY quickly...

[gdeputy]

well, the corners aren't peeling up it's the crease part of the corners have baby little bubbles and lint and dust is gonna gather there i know it. It's really minor, but its buggin me lol.

[csleee]

How does it affect the touchscreen? How does it feel?

I had the IS on my old iphone and it had a bit of a tacky feel, which was great for holding it but not so great for using the screen. How does the feel of the BG compare to the feel of IS?

[xandui]

How does it affect the touchscreen? How does it feel?

I had the IS on my old iphone and it had a bit of a tacky feel, which was great for holding it but not so great for using the screen. How does the feel of the BG compare to the feel of IS?

Ive had a chance to use both IS and BG on an iPhone and I can say that the BG honestly almost feels as if youre touching a naked screen while the IS very prominently featured its own texture that must be gotten used to. Another reason im glad i went with BG for my iphone.

[gdeputy]

Ive had a chance to use both IS and BG on an iPhone and I can say that the BG honestly almost feels as if youre touching a naked screen while the IS very prominently featured its own texture that must be gotten used to. Another reason im glad i went with BG for my iphone.

feels fine theres no texture to the film.

[D35P3R4T0]

i dont know how you guys got bubbles in the back of your bodyguardz case. i just got done adhering mine to my iphone, which was a tedious process, and didnt even come close to getting airbubbles. it think the trick to it is to liberally spray the bodyguardz plastic with the water/baby shampoo mixture and just slide it on and slowly wait for it to dry while trying to keep the edges down.

ps my bodyguardz cover looks awesome!

[pflau]

i dont know how you guys got bubbles in the back of your bodyguardz case. i just got done adhering mine to my iphone, which was a tedious process, and didnt even come close to getting airbubbles. it think the trick to it is to liberally spray the bodyguardz plastic with the water/baby shampoo mixture and just slide it on and slowly wait for it to dry while trying to keep the edges down.

ps my bodyguardz cover looks awesome!

The key is not to get AIR BUBBLES on the back by using enough solution to drive out all the air.

If you get BLACK BUBBLES, which are water, and not WHITE BUBBLES, which are air, the bubbles WILL disappear after about 48 hours. Even HUMUNGOUS ONES.

Trust me, I speak from experience.

[meagain]

Well, My install was a complete nightmare. I swear I worked it for hourS. Corners are a biatch. In the end, I have 2 opposing corners with little those little crimps. Could not get them to lay down for anything and they popped up over night again. I'm going to cut them off.

More disturbingly, there are divots in the back here & there. Round dents and also what looks like a fingernail indent. I did not put them there & they are not coming out. Looks bad. Very puzzling.

Considering trying IS on my 2nd phone despite it clearly won't cover the bezel well. It seems thicker to me. Might even cut the bezel part from the BodyGuardz to use and create my own thing.
I found IS to be very easy to install on my Air, very moveable. BodyGuardz despite being drench just seemed to immediately cling to the phone to where I had to lift it off a few times vs. sliding it around.

Only install when you have TONS of time, lots of light, in a good/relaxed mood. Lots of patience.

I want a spray on product.

[Donz0r]

Well, My install was a complete nightmare. I swear I worked it for hourS. Corners are a biatch. In the end, I have 2 opposing corners with little those little crimps. Could not get them to lay down for anything and they popped up over night again. I'm going to cut them off.

More disturbingly, there are divots in the back here & there. Round dents and also what looks like a fingernail indent. I did not put them there & they are not coming out. Looks bad. Very puzzling.

Considering trying IS on my 2nd phone despite it clearly won't cover the bezel well. It seems thicker to me. Might even cut the bezel part from the BodyGuardz to use and create my own thing.
I found IS to be very easy to install on my Air, very moveable. BodyGuardz despite being drench just seemed to immediately cling to the phone to where I had to lift it off a few times vs. sliding it around.

Only install when you have TONS of time, lots of light, in a good/relaxed mood. Lots of patience.

I want a spray on product.

I could slide my BodyGuardz around pretty easily after it had been put on. The bodyguardz installation took about 40 minutes or so to get perfect for me, but I think I stretched the film a little while taking the backing off because although the top half of it is perfectly lined up, the bottom part is just barely off a tiny bit, just enough to make the bottom corners crimp up, although it's hardly noticeable, I'll be trying again using the 2nd skin.

This is not that hard to get on right, just make sure taht everything's dust free and line up the CAMERA HOLE and the VOLUME ROCKER, i found that to be easiest. I didn't use a squeege or anything really, the water bubbles taht were left went away after a couple days, it looks great now!

[redcupr]

Hey all,

After reading this review I ordered up the Bodyguardz cover for my 3G. It was in my mailbox two days later. I put the screen cover on right away, so easy, and it looks soooo good. No more worries about scratching the glass.

I waited until this past weekend to put the back cover on, the curves just scared the ___ out of me.

I tackled it last night and I'll give myself an 8 on a scale of 10 as far as my install. I ended up with a couple water bubbles on the back (hoping they go away over the next few days), and a small crimp up by the sleep/wake switch. I may take an XActo knife to it when my hands are feeling steady.

Thanks to everyone for they're posts and review, I almost orded the Ghost Armor, ack!

[pflau]

I may take an XActo knife to it when my hands are feeling steady.


To all those people who mentioned using a knife to trim the corners... aren't you afraid of the knife cutting the back???

[Cross2]

I've gone through 3 back pieces and noticed that the corners are quite defective. No matter how well I set it, a bubble would appear. I've tried palming, blow drying, and rubber banding, nothing works to keep the corners down.

[pflau]

I've gone through 3 back pieces and noticed that the corners are quite defective. No matter how well I set it, a bubble would appear. I've tried palming, blow drying, and rubber banding, nothing works to keep the corners down.

That is why I am trying slitting. It is still work in progress as I am experimenting on a used piece (yes you can reuse them and no they do not stretch if you take them off) and see how it turns out before I put one on permanently.

The slittingI'm doing is.. think of the joker's lips. I'm essentially giving the film more room to breath by making the corners deeper.

[netjack]

what is the post-it trick I keep reading about?

thx

[thor79]

Sorry...I've heard of the post-it trick but I have no idea what it is...like you.

Here's some of mine own tips though for applying any of the invisible skins.

In my experience it's best just to ditch the bottled solution and make up your own batch of solution with water and dawn dish soap (or another mild dish soap or baby shampoo as they suggest). I got a cereal bowl full of RO (reverse osmosis) water and put in just a little bit of dawn. Mix it up and let it sit until most or all of the small amount of suds disppear (you shouldn't have much in the way of suds...if you do...do it again, you added too much soap). To do the job properly you need more solution than they provide. In my experience I would have to use up the entire bottle provided with the bodyguardz kit to do one backing properly...and even that probably wouldn't do the job I bet.

Use that solution for your hands (in a bowl makes it easier) to ensure you hands are wet.

When applying the skins...no matter what skin you have...dunk the entire skin in the solution so it's entirely wet. Shake off as much extra solution as you can (make sure it's still wet though). Whenever you have even the slightest hint of dryness on your fingers dunk them again to make sure you don't leave finger prints.

You may have extra water to deal with (shouldn't be too much extra) but the the end result turns out better and it makes the skin easier to apply. I originally tried the BodyGuardz kit and screwed up with fingerprints on both of them...running out of solution on the second backing....which means lots of fingerprints. Since I simply threw the skins in the trash instead of holding onto them I couldn't get my money back..but whatever...my mistake. I went with BSE instead due to their 2 piece back and had a much easier time. I think mostly due to the 2 pieces (easier to position a smaller piece, but you have a seam on the back some may not like) and due to the solution I had to mix up since they don't provide it with the skins. IMO it's better just to make up your own solution...just don't go crazy with the soap you add. I used RO water to make sure no minerals from tap water were left...seeing how I'm on a well sometimes the iron levels can be a bit much.

[pflau]

When applying the skins...no matter what skin you have...dunk the entire skin in the solution so it's entirely wet. Shake off as much extra solution as you can (make sure it's still wet though).

Dunking has the benefit of cleansing the skin. A sponge can be used to soak up extra water. A sponge is lintless.

[netjack]

is the black cloth the comes w/ the iphone considered a lint free cloth?

[Blown01NJ]

Are all of you guys using these skins as a replacement for a normal case, or just a suppliment?

[geraldo]

By the way, I challenge anyone to get theirs applied as well as I did.
You aren't kidding! I went through 3 tries before I got mine mostly right -- and I've documented my embarrassing results!
http://www.flickr.com/photos/geraldoh
I tend to agree with one who said starting at the mute and volume buttons might be part of the trick to better alignment. I agree with the hair dryer use -- if you let it dry naturally, the film doesn't appear to be soften enough or be sticky enough to lie down complete flat on the corners. My rear corners (apart from one) are in no shape or form as nicely done as yours.

The good part is that with the lifetime bodyguardz warranty, I'll eventually do this again -- hopefully with much superior results around the corners. For the record, I don't use a case, it just goes into my pocket. However, for the few times when it goes into a laptop bag (airport security), I either use an Incipio leather case, or just slip the iPhone into a microfiber pouch. And yes, this is _definitely_ one of the more difficult and frustrating things I've done in recent memory! But, my imperfect results aside, I think film is definitely the way to go.

[meagain]

Are all of you guys using these skins as a replacement for a normal case, or just a suppliment?

Using the skin AS a case. Using old 2g Incase Rubber case or similar cheaper case for when I'm in a rambunctious situation - gardening, concert, etc. etc. over the skin.

[JajoPGH]

I tried my second back application last night. I made my own solution and dipped the skin. It came out great except two corners where there are 2 minute wrinkles. I want to get bodyguards for my brothers white iPhone but I want to make a small incision in the film at the corners. Maybe then it won't wrinkle

[Cross2]

Has anyone been able to perfectly align the corners to avoid bubbles? After a week, I noticed a few more bubbles forming around the corners. Any advice on fixing this would be great.

[HaroldC]

Finally got up the nerve to rip my first one off and try the second one. (first one was too close to the power switch and was pulled up)

Did the same full soak in homemade solution and got the alignment perfect! Corners stayed down after letting them dry a bit and pressing/palming for a min or two on each one. (that's the key - to let it dry enough and then press/palm/hold)

The only bummer - just have a few bubbles, but they're liquid not air. I'm hoping that they'll disappear after a day or so. Funny thing is that I didn't get them on the first one I did, oh well. I hope they disappear........

btw - instead of doing this in the bathroom with the shower on, I did this in a room that was air conditioned, thus low humidity. It allows the film to dry faster and thus tackier, making the corners easier.

[pflau]

Finally got up the nerve to rip my first one off and try the second one. (first one was too close to the power switch and was pulled up)


Common error. For others reading this again you must check and double check all the switches to make sure they clear the film.


The only bummer - just have a few bubbles, but they're liquid not air. I'm hoping that they'll disappear after a day or so. Funny thing is that I didn't get them on the first one I did, oh well. I hope they disappear........


As long as they are liquid you are OK. Just give them two days.


btw - instead of doing this in the bathroom with the shower on, I did this in a room that was air conditioned, thus low humidity. It allows the film to dry faster and thus tackier, making the corners easier.

The reason to do it in the bathroom is to avoid having dusts trapped beneath the film. Once the film is on properly you can take the whole thing out of the bathroom to dry.

[adamerr]

threw my bodyguardz on.
i like it so far.


then i noticed a fibre underneath the bodyguardz on the screen.
and im like :(

ah well.
its not that bad.

[pflau]

threw my bodyguardz on.
i like it so far.


then i noticed a fibre underneath the bodyguardz on the screen.
and im like :(

ah well.
its not that bad.

You just wet your fingers and the backsheet. Use the backsheet to lift up skin, all the time keeping the underside of the skin wet, and use your fingernail to scratch off the fiber. reapply the skin and make sure there is enough solution under the skin to drive out all the air.

You just lift the part of the screen closest to the fiber. You don't remove the entire skin so there is no repositioning. It's a simple matter. Do it in a steamy bathroom so you don't get more lint underneath while you try to remove what's already there.

[Espo]

Im returning bodyguards because the back plastic is absolutely horrible. The corners never stay down and dust/lint gets stuck in there... I wouldve liked it to work though.

[jen4t25]

I put my BG on about a week ago. After the 2nd or 3rd day all the bubbles were gone & the screen is clear & I'm not really noticing any probs with the touch screen. I didn't line it up the greatest so the corners look bad & all lint & stuff got stuck underneath so on a white phone it really sticks out. I still have the 2nd one & I'm a bit nervous to rip this one off, afraid it will look worse (if that's possible). It doesn't seem like it *completely* covers the chrome part & I don't think it was me because one side seems like it is good but the other has a big gap...who know, it probably was me.
Sorry for the bad pics, hope they come out, I never posted here before.

[adamerr]

I put my BG on about a week ago. After the 2nd or 3rd day all the bubbles were gone & the screen is clear & I'm not really noticing any probs with the touch screen. I didn't line it up the greatest so the corners look bad & all lint & stuff got stuck underneath so on a white phone it really sticks out. I still have the 2nd one & I'm a bit nervous to rip this one off, afraid it will look worse (if that's possible). It doesn't seem like it *completely* covers the chrome part & I don't think it was me because one side seems like it is good but the other has a big gap...who know, it probably was me.
Sorry for the bad pics, hope they come out, I never posted here before.

i botched mine as well.
dont worry, all though im glad i got the black iPhone as the dust/lint doesnt show up as well.

and no, on one side of mine it doesnt cover the entire chrome part...
wonder why....

[cambridge1807]

I just installed my 2nd set because I wasn't happy with my first install. For the front, I had dust and lint in the middle of the screen and it got really annoying when I would be on a white page like browsing this forum. It's drying right now, so I'll try to add my pictures tomorrow. The back took more time, but I'd highly recommend using a blow dryer to help on the corners. It dries up the solution and gets the film sticky, which makes it easier to stick. I'm pretty satisfied with my second try though. First set, got the top 2 corners to stick with the bottom 2 lifting a bit, accumulating lint from pocket. Second try, I got all corners to stick with ease, but 1 corner has a little mishap. Fixed it with an x-acto knife and nail clipper to trim the excess. I will post pictures tomorrow when they dry to show how well the fitment is, when installed correctly.

[netjack]

does the sticky/adhesive residue eventually disappear? There seems to be some white residue on the edges of my front shield. I hope I don't have to peel it off at that edge and wet it down to get rid of it. It's only been on for a couple hours.

Thx

[netjack]

plz delete

[netjack]

does anyone else feel that the shield doesn't provide 100% coverage? I mean the slits/folds on the back leave probably 5% of the back exposed. Why did they have to build a slit/fold design. Couldn't they have created a full form fitting shape that works w/ a convex back? Just my 2 cents.

Also, it seems because there are edges all around the phone, lots of lint/scuff is going to get caught in there. And not to mention, coming out of a pocket, any of those edges could snag and rip. No?

ps. I got all my corners lined up and to sit on my very first try and i've never applied any film like this before. I couldn't have done it without all the advice posted on here. Thanks everyone!

[Cross2]

Here's my fourth attempt at sticking the corners. After applying the film, I made small slits on each of the corners and used a blow dryer on and off for about 1 minute. Then I wrapped it with multiple rubberbands to hold it into place. Now I'll wait 48 hours and see what happens...

[xandui]

So i decided i wasnt happy with the couple of crease airbubbles i had that other people seem to be reporting as well so i sent out for a replacement set from NLU and decided to give it another try.

Well let me say that while it is very difficult it is possible to avoid those little crease bubbles in the corners that collect lint if left alone.

This isnt going to sound like the most amazing advice ever but honestly if you reapply the back and are constantly aware of keeping those creases flat they will eventually stay down as things start drying. Its easy to adjust the flaps accordingly so you wont mess anything up by prioritizing the creases and now my device looks perfect, just needs to dry.

Also i found that applying it the third time around was a breeze. All that practice really does help so if youre like me and going to give it another try dont be too daunted by the idea that its gonna be as hard as the first try was. Ill post pics once it drys a bit.

[pflau]

Here's my fourth attempt at sticking the corners. After applying the film, I made small slits on each of the corners and used a blow dryer on and off for about 1 minute. Then I wrapped it with multiple rubberbands to hold it into place. Now I'll wait 48 hours and see what happens...

All I can say is good luck and I hope that those rubber bands ain't going to leave impressions on the still wet still drying back.

[theotherrogue]

I have a crapton of bubbles on mine. Some are quite large. Will they go away or should i just try again.

Also, does anybody know the solution amounts to mix your own? I used all of mine VERY quickly...


I used about 2 oz. of water mixed with just a tiny drop of hand-soap. You need very very little soap in the mixture.

To all those having problems with bubbles: you need to use a lot of solution!! I used a very generous amount on mine and I don't have a single air bubble under mine. So, if you have any bubbles initially, they should be liquid bubbles and not air bubbles. It's very easy to smooth out liquid bubbles.

[xandui]

I used about 2 oz. of water mixed with just a tiny drop of hand-soap. You need very very little soap in the mixture.

To all those having problems with bubbles: you need to use a lot of solution!! I used a very generous amount on mine and I don't have a single air bubble under mine. So, if you have any bubbles initially, they should be liquid bubbles and not air bubbles. It's very easy to smooth out liquid bubbles.

While that is good advice i will say to those who finished the application process, have everything lined up exactly how they want it, but still have noticible AIR bubbles under their BG, give it a few days. I had a ton of bubbles on the back after my first try, most of them were air bubbles, and even the largest one out of them all went away with me resqueeging over it once a day after about 5 days. That was the largest one though, pretty much all the other ones were gone within 3 days.

[Cross2]

So rather than wait 48 hours, here are the results from 4 hours of rubberbanding immediately after applying BG. There are still a few line impressions from the rubberbands; however, they are slowly fading. I am actually quite surprised that it turned out this well. I'll post more results after a few days.

[uiop.]

I put my BG on about a week ago. After the 2nd or 3rd day all the bubbles were gone & the screen is clear & I'm not really noticing any probs with the touch screen. I didn't line it up the greatest so the corners look bad & all lint & stuff got stuck underneath so on a white phone it really sticks out. I still have the 2nd one & I'm a bit nervous to rip this one off, afraid it will look worse (if that's possible). It doesn't seem like it *completely* covers the chrome part & I don't think it was me because one side seems like it is good but the other has a big gap...who know, it probably was me.
Sorry for the bad pics, hope they come out, I never posted here before.

Oh wow....that looks terrible. Is there any way you can send it back?
I think I am just gonna have to go for a bulky case as I haven't heard to many good things about the BodyGuardz or InvisibleShield. :(

-uiop.

[pflau]

Well, here are some pics from my BodyGuardz experience. The first pic is a BG that I ripped off of my iPhone 3G after I noticed that I had misaligned it after it dried. After I ripped it off I did my best to stretch the skin using only my fingers. However, after I put the skin back on the backing sheet (you need to send it back if you want free replacement in the future) it basically returned to its original shape as it dried. You can tell from the picture the skin is totally flat with no sign of stretching.

http://i110.photobucket.com/albums/n105/pflau/bg.jpg

To alleviate the corners’ tendency to lift, I made cut on the junctions so that the corners have more room to spread out and lay flat.

http://i110.photobucket.com/albums/n105/pflau/bg1.jpg

To remove the last little bit of lift, I press the little bubble against the sole plate of an iron set to Synthetic. That basically deforms the skin enough so that it stays down.

http://i110.photobucket.com/albums/n105/pflau/bg2.jpg

You can tell the corner is a little distorted. But it stays the hack down for good!!

BTW, that piece of plastic on the back is an egrips non-slip strip.

http://i110.photobucket.com/albums/n105/pflau/bg3.jpg

These are the other two corners that got the same treatment. I challenge anybody who did a better job!!

http://i110.photobucket.com/albums/n105/pflau/bg4.jpg

[TWLreal]

Wirelessly posted (Mozilla/5.0 (iPhone; U; CPU iPhone OS 2_0 like Mac OS X; en-us) AppleWebKit/525.18.1 (KHTML, like Gecko) Version/3.1.1 Mobile/5A347 Safari/525.20)

Has anyone ordered from Canada?

I'd like to know if there are duty fees involved. Shipping alone is $10. :|

[mavis]

I've used Invisible Shields on my iPods for years (starting with a 20GB 3rg gen iPod four or five years ago) so naturally I pre-ordered two (I always buy them in pairs, in case I mess up!) as soon as the iPhone 3G was announced. Unfortunately, after ruining both of them (botched installations on both of them - and I'm an IS veteran!) I decided to just go 'naked' as they say. Bad move. Within a few days my iPhone had numerous scratches on the back, most of them impossible to see unless you really studied it - but the Apple logo: scratched to hell and back. And I was VERY careful with it. So, I decided to order some more shields and have another go at it. After seeing this thread and checking some other online reviews, I decided to try my luck with the BodyGuardz film as it doesn't suffer from the 'orange peel' effect but is supposedly as scratch-resistant as the IS. While I waited for the BGs to arrive, I actually got my iPhone replaced and spent the last six days babying the new one - I never once set it down on a hard surface, and was EXTREMELY careful with it.

Yesterday my BG arrived. I cleaned my iPhone off and looked as hard as I could for scratches on the back - there were none, not even on the logo! So, yay. :D Anyway I applied the BG last night using my 'clean room' (steamy bathroom) but still managed to get tiny black fibers under the film, I guess from my microfiber work surface. Figures. But instead of just letting them be (and it bothering the heck out of me) I wet my fingers with the spray, pulled up the film (already slightly tacky at this point) and cleaned it off. I had to do this several times, but ended up with a perfectly clean install. I spent literally two hours getting the corners down perfectly but they look fantastic now, in fact they look so good that you cannot tell there's a film on there at all unless you look VERY closely. The BG is smooth, almost as smooth as a naked iPhone. It isn't as grippy/tacky as the IS but then again there's no more orange peel effect.

Below is a pic I just took (14 hours after applying the film) ... The DOF is very shallow and I tried to focus on the top corners, so the center of the iPhone's back (the Apple logo and the text at the bottom) appears to be slightly OOF. Anyway, here's the pic:

VERY HIGH RES! Click to enlarge:
http://www.mavisxp.com/iPhone/IMG_2007.jpg

After years of buying InvisibleShields for all of my electronic devices (four iPods, a DS and a PSP) and tolerating that orange peel texture, I'm happy to say the BG looks MUCH better than the IS (and at half the price, considering you get two in each pack). I won't be buying IS again, that's for damn sure. ;)

[heyp]

so i've noticed that my 3 of my corners are starting to poke up a bit... i've tried rubber banding but it didn't work... any other tips for trying to get these things to stay down?

i'd re-apply but this was my second attempt and i'm out of back films

[cambridge1807]

so i've noticed that my 3 of my corners are starting to poke up a bit... i've tried rubber banding but it didn't work... any other tips for trying to get these things to stay down?

i'd re-apply but this was my second attempt and i'm out of back films

I've done the back application twice now, and I think I got it down...except for this one corner. I have all 3 down pretty much perfectly, except one, which lifts up a little bit. I have found that making a slit with an x-acto knife helps. You can also use nail clippers or those scissors for your nails. I find that using a hair dryer helps to get the film sticky. Just have it under in short interval so you don't risk damaging your phone. I'll add pictures in a second.

[cambridge1807]

Here are some pics I took. Basically to show the texture of the film on the back part and how the fitment is on the corners and bezel. The screen film is pretty much cut like every other company, so I didn't show any pics there. Well here you go, if you need more pics, I'll try to get them for you. There aren't the best of pics either...
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v315/cambridge1807/Bodyguardz/IMG_8022.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v315/cambridge1807/Bodyguardz/IMG_8026.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v315/cambridge1807/Bodyguardz/IMG_8036.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v315/cambridge1807/Bodyguardz/IMG_8037.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v315/cambridge1807/Bodyguardz/IMG_8039.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v315/cambridge1807/Bodyguardz/IMG_8033.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v315/cambridge1807/Bodyguardz/IMG_8034.jpg

[thor79]

Dunking has the benefit of cleansing the skin. A sponge can be used to soak up extra water. A sponge is lintless.

That's a good tip...never thought about that...I just had a small piece of bounty paper towel to wick away the excess water at the bottom.

Dunking it also ensures it is completely covered in the solution. The sprays leave too many gaps unless you absolutely soak it...and if you do that you will run out quick.


Also in my experience with both the BodyGuardz and BSE...they leave no residue when you take them off...you can have it looking exactly the same as when you put it on in the first place. The only exceptions to that are where dirt might have collected at the corners where it wasn't covered...but that can be wiped away.

[netjack]

anyone bothered by the fact that front face of the bezel (approx. 1mm metal ring) is totally exposed?

[jen4t25]

anyone bothered by the fact that front face of the bezel (approx. 1mm metal ring) is totally exposed?
Yeah, I emailed them about that asking if it should be completely covered (because mine isn't) & here is what they said...

"Yes you should be able to cover the chrome bezel. It will need to stretched a bit to do this. We cut it specifically about 1mm short, so it doesn't overlap the front and make it hard to install."

I don't really like the fact you have to "stretch" it, what if you stretch a little too much??

[netjack]

i think that is bs..there is definitely no way of that stretching that much..can anyone else confirm or deny this?

[pflau]

i think that is bs..there is definitely no way of that stretching that much..can anyone else confirm or deny this?

There is just no way..,

[JackSpearo]

cambridge, the corner near your cam looks like it will collect lint. this is what happened to mine, I have to redo it :-(

[iphoneheaven1]

Does anyone know if the bubbles can still disappear after 72 hours or are they just there forever? I guess I didn't do a great job because it has been about 60 hours now and I still have quite a few bubbles on the back....although they are fairly small, I was just wondering if they will still disappear?
Which skin do you have? In my case, the bubble has gone completely after 48 hours. Now, mine looks the same as a naked iphone with the skin on.

http://i348.photobucket.com/albums/q358/estrva/3gshield_pp.jpg

[pflau]

Well it's been a week since I got the BG on and even though I carry it in my pocket whenever I'm out and that my iPhone is black there is absolutely no issue with the corners getting unsightly due to lints or dirts getting trapped under the skin edges.

[Espo]

When applying the BG, I know the volume,mute,camera must be alligned perfectly because the skin was cut that way. However has anyone noticed that the semi-circle that is cut for the headphone jack does not line up exactly? Or it may be my mistake. Also when applying the skin to the corners, should the film overlap, or be placed with a small gap or sit very close together without a gap?

any help would be appreciated, I'm having a rough time trying to get the corners to fit without lifting. This will be my 4th try & I'm trying to just get this right.

[pflau]

The skin around the headphone jack must also be perfect. If not it means your skin is shifted too much toward one side or another and as a result you would either have extra skin sticking out above the bezel or the flaps at the corner would overlap.

The flaps at the corner might have a small gap or might touch each other, depending on the exact position of the skin. But they should never overlap.

[Espo]

To alleviate the corners’ tendency to lift, I made cut on the junctions so that the corners have more room to spread out and lay flat.

http://i110.photobucket.com/albums/n105/pflau/bg1.jpg

To remove the last little bit of lift, I press the little bubble against the sole plate of an iron set to Synthetic. That basically deforms the skin enough so that it stays down.

http://i110.photobucket.com/albums/n105/pflau/bg2.jpg

You can tell the corner is a little distorted. But it stays the hack down for good!!

BTW, that piece of plastic on the back is an egrips non-slip strip.

http://i110.photobucket.com/albums/n105/pflau/bg3.jpg

These are the other two corners that got the same treatment. I challenge anybody who did a better job!!

http://i110.photobucket.com/albums/n105/pflau/bg4.jpg

You did do a very good job, I have some questions though. You cut the junctions on all sides? Did they stay down? I can see that they may get stuck on something an lift accidently.

Also I don't understand what you did with the plate to synthetic? Can you be please elaborate?

Also you say the strip on the back is an egrip? Meaning you didn't use bodyguardz? Thanks for the help, I would really like for my bg to turn out like yours, or without bubbles and creases at all.

[pflau]

You did do a very good job, I have some questions though. You cut the junctions on all sides? Did they stay down? I can see that they may get stuck on something an lift accidently.

No. As I have mentioned in a follow-up post, there was no lift what so ever nor was there any lint getting under the flaps. One caution though, do not cut too deep (1/4" max) or you might have a hard time getting the cut to not overlap on itself.


Also I don't understand what you did with the plate to synthetic? Can you be please elaborate?

Synthetic refers to the iron heat setting. Every iron has heat settings from synthetic (lowest) to linen (highest) for you to control the temperature.


Also you say the strip on the back is an egrip? Meaning you didn't use bodyguardz? Thanks for the help, I would really like for my bg to turn out like yours, or without bubbles and creases at all.

Yes I use BodyGuardz. The egrips is applied ON TOP OF the BodyGuardz. That allows me to put the iPhone on the center console of my car without it flying off whenever I take a corner.

[Espo]

No. As I have mentioned in a follow-up post, there was no lift what so ever nor was there any lint getting under the flaps. One caution though, do not cut too deep (1/4" max) or you might have a hard time getting the cut to not overlap on itself.



Synthetic refers to the iron heat setting. Every iron has heat settings from synthetic (lowest) to linen (highest) for you to control the temperature.



Yes I use BodyGuardz. The egrips is applied ON TOP OF the BodyGuardz. That allows me to put the iPhone on the center console of my car without it flying off whenever I take a corner.

Thanks for the reponse. How did you make the slit? Would a box cutter/razor be okay? After you applied the bodyguardz with the junction slit, how long did you wait to apply the iron, & how long did you apply the iron for ? The iron didn't melt the film in any way? I'm surprised to see it sit so well.

Thanks for the help again.

[pflau]

Thanks for the reponse. How did you make the slit? Would a box cutter/razor be okay? After you applied the bodyguardz with the junction slit, how long did you wait to apply the iron, & how long did you apply the iron for ? The iron didn't melt the film in any way? I'm surprised to see it sit so well.

Thanks for the help again.

I use a box cutter blade. But I would definitely recommand using an x-acto knife instead, and of course a small ruler with a metal edge to guide the knife.

The important thing about cutting the slit is that use only one cut. After which you can carefully lift the flap from the backing sheet to separate the cut in case you did not cut it all the way through.

You apply the iron after 24 hours when it is evident that the corner is not going to stay down. The iron does not melt the film, but it does softens and deforms it. It does sit well because the film has been deformed so it loses the tendency to lift. When you are convinced that the corner is not going to stay down press the corner down one last time, wait a little while for the corner to start to lift up again, and then you apply the iron to preceisely the spot where it starts to lift. You can actually see that one tiny spot in the picture where it was lifting. I was actually doing it when I took the picture, not afterward. You might need to do it several times because you would want to set the iron heat setting low and control the time when the sole plate presses down on the corner.

[n8236]

I don't know about you guys, but I got a poor set of film. It had bulges, indentations, cut was not "perfect." I had to make modifications by cutting small pieces out for it to fit right. Corners are still difficult to straighten out. I royally messed up on my first piece. Second piece proved to be much better, so the fact that it comes in 2 sets is great. The ugliest part of doing this is having to res-eat the corners and making them filled with contaminants or deforming it since it's so hard to get right.

Here are a few tips.

1. Totally use more solution (make ur own if you have to). Makes it much easier.

2. When peeling corners, use a tweezers. That'll minimize contaminants when re-seating the corners.

3. Cut overlapping areas (as I have needed to do so a few times) along with the bridged areas for the top and bottom small pieces for ease of applying.

[pflau]

Here are a few tips.

1. Totally use more solution (make ur own if you have to). Makes it much easier.


Agree. Make your own by using a drop of Johnson baby shampoo in a cup of water. You can get tiny travel size Johnson baby shampoo in drug store/super market.


2. When peeling corners, use a tweezers. That'll minimize contaminants when re-seating the corners.

I disagree. Use the backing sheet wet. Slide the backing sheet underneath the corner and lift it up. The trick is to keep the corner wet while you are detaching it so dirts don't stick to it. Do it right and you have zero chance of contaminating the corner.

Also, the corner is not difficult to apply. You just need to follow these simple steps:

1. Wait for the corner to dry. Failure to do this is mistake number one. If the corner is not completely dry, it would stick in one place and not stick on another. BIG MISTAKE. As I will describe why in 2.

2. When you get the corner to stick down, do it in a circular motion. That is, imagine the corner is a quarter of a CD or a vinyl record. You stick it down one track at a time, from the inner most track to the outer most track. You need to do this to evenly distribute the tension of the skin. If you do not do it this way and you have tension concentrated in one spot, that spot is going to lift. This is impossible to do if the corner is not complete dry. And as a result whichever spot drying last would get the most tension built in and will lift.

3. Only after the corner has complete stick do you stick the flaps. You do that to make sure there is no extra materials at the corner/flap junction that would make any lift worse. Yes there will be some lift, but why make it worse.

4. Use the iron method to eliminate that little tiny lift that remains if you don't want to do what some people do which is to trim the lift with tiny scissors/nail clippers.

[n8236]

Even by re-lifting an area, one runs the risk of creating a visible "white" residue in that area regardless of contaminants.

It is highly recommended that each corner have a small incision, it will make your life 100x easier when applying. The back piece is too perfect at certain areas which makes this process difficult.

And I'm not sure if anyone else is having this issue, but there are little contaminants in the chrome. It looks like really really really small air bubbles. And I worked in a clean room, what's up with that!?

I've also found that BG isn't very good for the front because it's not truly clear. You can see little ridges and ripples at an angle. Apple sells Power Support film and I've used that on my 2G iPhone and I swear by it. :apple:

[Espo]

It is highly recommended that each corner have a small incision, it will make your life 100x easier when applying. The back piece is too perfect at certain areas which makes this process difficult.

Do you mean making cuts at the junctions?

[Espo]

Also, the corner is not difficult to apply. You just need to follow these simple steps:

1. Wait for the corner to dry. Failure to do this is mistake number one. If the corner is not completely dry, it would stick in one place and not stick on another. BIG MISTAKE. As I will describe why in 2.

2. When you get the corner to stick down, do it in a circular motion. That is, imagine the corner is a quarter of a CD or a vinyl record. You stick it down one track at a time, from the inner most track to the outer most track. You need to do this to evenly distribute the tension of the skin. If you do not do it this way and you have tension concentrated in one spot, that spot is going to lift. This is impossible to do if the corner is not complete dry. And as a result whichever spot drying last would get the most tension built in and will lift.

3. Only after the corner has complete stick do you stick the flaps. You do that to make sure there is no extra materials at the corner/flap junction that would make any lift worse. Yes there will be some lift, but why make it worse.

4. Use the iron method to eliminate that little tiny lift that remains if you don't want to do what some people do which is to trim the lift with tiny scissors/nail clippers.

What flaps are you revering to? Do you mean to make sure the corners are down first, then press down the sides?

[pflau]

What flaps are you revering to? Do you mean to make sure the corners are down first, then press down the sides?

The two pieces of the skins that come together at the corner of the bezel. I refer to them as flaps. Yes I do mean to make sure the corners are down first, then press down the sides. This is to make sure there is no extra material at the corner/flap junction that would make any lift worse.

[pflau]

Even by re-lifting an area, one runs the risk of creating a visible "white" residue in that area regardless of contaminants.


I have re-lifted the corners many times and I never noticed any white residue. The key is always to use the clean backing sheet to lift the skin and to wash your fingers and keep the area wet with soapy water so things do not stick to the skin.

[Espo]

so I'm going to apply the back BG tonight. This is what I plan on doing. Any advice would be helpful.

1. Completely clean the table that I will be using.
2. Completely clean the back of the iPhone. I will be using the cloth that came with the phone.
3. Using a razor blade, I will make 4 1/4 in slits running horizontally ah each corner. (parrallel with tue speakers and headphone Jack/lock button)

4. I will line up the skins with the volume/mute buttons first and then the camera lens after applying the solution.
5. I will then press the corners down first and then the flaps and sides.

Then wait for it to dry, and use the iron method if the corners still rise.

Am I missing anything? Thank you for the help.

[pflau]

3. Using a razor blade, I will make 4 1/4 in slits running horizontally ah each corner. (parrallel with tue speakers and headphone Jack/lock button)

No you do not need to slit the corner where the mute switch is, that corner, because of the mute switch, is already cut deep enough.

[Espo]

I would like to thank everyone for their help.. FInally 3rd time is a success. I made the cuts in the 3 corners, and 2 of them overlapped. I would've prefered for them not to, however for everything to sit flush with no bubbles, I will take it. If they annoy me I will snip them off...

Here are some pics. My cam sucks, so this is the best that I could do.

I just did this about 10 minutes ago, so it may not seem 100% clear, but I know that it clears up over time.

Also, this was the closest i have come without having the corners lift, and the chrome bezel is about 95% covered, which is good enough for me.

[Blown01NJ]

Someone should post up a pic of where exactly to make the slits before the skin is on the phone.

[richxps]

Yea that would be great if someone can post pics of where to make the slits ? I cant really tell in the pictures where the slits are, Its that good :)
Also on my first try i have 2 corners with a tiny bubble, if i do the iron method am i just to hold the corner of the phone on the iron ? or just touch the skin with the iron ? And can this be done 3 days after the skin is applied ?
Thanks guys, All the pics here look great.

[i0Nic]

Someone should post up a pic of where exactly to make the slits before the skin is on the phone.

+1

[JIGPhone]

It seems as if a lot of people are having trouble getting the corners to stick. I've had this exact same problem, got fed up, and emailed NLU for a refund. Their founder, Kirk, was really nice and offered to send me a new skin with a modified design to fix the corner problem. I got the replacement and did notice a slight difference in the cutout compared to the original skin I was sent. I haven't installed it yet, but when I do. I really hope it fixes the problem.

( P.S. I refuse to put a hot iron next to my precious iPhone :eek: )

If you guys are having the same problem, I suggest you email the company. They are pretty receptive and may send you a modified replacement that might just stick!

[Espo]

Well I have not had a problem applying the skins and getting the corners to stick.

Basically, what you do with the iron is put it on the lowest heat setting. Then once you feel the small, apply it on the skin on the corners. It shouldnt do anything to the find (i've done this twice). Just let the iron sit for 2-3 seconds and then press down. It doesnt damage your phone at all, just dont let it sit on the phone for a while.

Also with the cuts, I cant show you a pick because I havent reapplied my skin. Yet, just make 1/4 inch horizontal cuts on the camera corner, and the two bottom speakers. Take a razor/box cutter, and cut the skin while it is on the paper. Press down hard so you dont have to repeat the cut.

It seems as if a lot of people are having trouble getting the corners to stick. I've had this exact same problem, got fed up, and emailed NLU for a refund. Their founder, Kirk, was really nice and offered to send me a new skin with a modified design to fix the corner problem. I got the replacement and did notice a slight difference in the cutout compared to the original skin I was sent. I haven't installed it yet, but when I do. I really hope it fixes the problem.

( P.S. I refuse to put a hot iron next to my precious iPhone )

If you guys are having the same problem, I suggest you email the company. They are pretty receptive and may send you a modified replacement that might just stick!

When did you call them, cuz I called about 2 weeks ago and they did not offer any redesigned skins. Can you post some pics?

[pflau]

Their founder, Kirk, was really nice and offered to send me a new skin with a modified design to fix the corner problem. I got the replacement and did notice a slight difference in the cutout compared to the original skin I was sent. I haven't installed it yet, but when I do. I really hope it fixes the problem.


It would be great if you post a picture of the new design. If they did what I hope they do there might be no need to cut the corners or use the iron.

BTW. The BG on my iPhone is still perfect - no lints caught under the skin, no corner lift. Just as good as the day after I applied it.

[cambridge1807]

If your corners lift a little bit, just take some nail clippers and trim off the excess. It may not look perfect, but it does indeed work. I've done this on 2 of the phones, and the corners are not lifting at all or accumulating andy dust. Maybe give this a shot if you don't want to put an iron to your phone.

[Smacky]

I did the nail clipper thing
Almost had a heart attack when i thought i had chipped off some of the paint with the clippers lol
Its not perfect either. Looking at it, I was thinking about getting a hole punch and puching a semi circular small hole at each corner so that the pressure doesnt build up there. You would do this before u apply it of course

[born4sky]

I returned mine, hate that feeling it's like protective cover always on the pone.

[Smacky]

it is a protective cover

[richxps]

THANK YOU ALL.

My second back skin went on flawless. I used the blow dryer to get my cornors down, let it dry for about 2 days and used the iron to get the tiny cornors that were up. AND IT WORKED. i just touched the part that was up with the iron and it stayed flat. Today the skin is perfect, i will post up some pics tonight.
Thanks for all the tips .........

[macthille]

Wow, I'm impressed with the iron solution! Seems a bit scary but maybe I'll try that one next time I put the skin on.

I used a blow dryer to keep the corners down and held them in place for a long time. But they wouldn't give up so I used a pair of scissors (small and sharp) to cut them off.

Posted a video of how I did it:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=opUAcOHjVzk

It worked but is not as elegant as using the iron.. :P

(sorry for the sloppy language in that video... Everytime I try to edit the text, youtube removes some random annotation... It's a bit buggy I guess..)

[gdeputy]

so i took my back off today and decided to do another one, because i had a few corners sticking up, they had been since the beginning, and they had gotten worse.

I don't wanna speak too soon, but I think (without any modification) i've gotten a PERFECT application. Solid hour after applying and it looks like it's going to be perfect. I'll try and get pictures tommarow in the mirror so you can see, hopefully nothing by then, but i think it's going to sit perfectly.

[J*man]

How is the front screen protector? Does it resist smudges and finger prints or would a Power Support Anti-Glare Film Set do a better job?

[JackSpearo]

I put my body guardz on for the 3rd time, and the corners finally went down...

except I have 1 bubble. I put it on Sunday, and the one bubble is still there...

any solutions to getting it out?

[ismoker]

I put my body guardz on for the 3rd time, and the corners finally went down...

except I have 1 bubble. I put it on Sunday, and the one bubble is still there...

any solutions to getting it out?

i think bubble will be gone in a few days...
mine also did, well mine isn bofyguardz but i think it would work in same way.

and for less cause of bubble, you need to put lots of liquid on the film when you install it...which i don really recommend and didn't do cuz i don want any accidents such as water getting in to my iPhone :o

[JackSpearo]

I put it on last sunday, today is friday night

one bubble still is there :-(

[pflau]

I put it on last sunday, today is friday night

one bubble still is there :-(

Where is the bubble? If it gets to a point where you really do not want to wait any more you can undo the corner closest to where the bubble is and reapply. As long as you keep everything wet (your fingers, the backing sheet you are going to use to undo the corner, and the skin itself) and you do it in a steamed up bathroom the chance of getting the skin contaminated is very very low.

[justinreclicks]

I put it on last sunday, today is friday night

one bubble still is there :-(

hmm how about pop it up with a tiny needle?
half joke, half serious:D

[SethBoy]

I applied the front film some 15-18 hours ago and there are numerous big (about the size of the rounded square of the iPhone's home button) bubbles over the screen. I had no idea how I did such a shoddy job, because I took care to squeegee the film thoroughly. Are these going to disappear or do I have to restick the 2nd film?

Wouldn't be much of a surprise that I screwed up the back, considering how I couldn't even do the front properly. I screwed up my first film, used the 2nd one, and while I finally managed to align 90% of the back nicely, by the time I was down to the bottom, the skin seemed to have stretched and could no longer cover the phone properly.

It's kind of a bummer that I feel like ripping it off and just use the phone without a case, but then I just spent good money on a few pieces of plastic and a vial of soapy water and I feel indignant.

Applying this was like condensing all the trauma I would get from having scratches over the time I use the device into the few hours I spent trying to align the film.

I am now awaiting my replacement so I can try once more. I don't know if I would have any sanity left if I can't get it done this time.

[gdeputy]

just take your time, and the main thing to know (by the way my corners stayed down) is it's going to take at least an hour. I was watching tv and would work every 5 minutes if i couldn't get it to stick.

I concentrated on the corners once i got the skin aligned. You HAVE to have the creases done right. The part that goes o the chrome, make sure it's not 'pinching' the corner or you WILL have corners fraying. Just concentrate on that and most of the other stuff fell into place for me.

[Smacky]

I just got a replacement in the mail, the cut at the corners is different than my first set

http://www.flickr.com/photos/29084067@N06/2807372086/
http://www.flickr.com/photos/29084067@N06/2807371976/

[pflau]

I just got a replacement in the mail, the cut at the corners is different than my first set

http://www.flickr.com/photos/29084067@N06/2807372086/
http://www.flickr.com/photos/29084067@N06/2807371976/

Yup they bascically did exactly what I thought they were going to do. They made the cut at the corner junctions a little deeper and rounder so there is less of a tendency to lift.

[HaroldC]

I just got a replacement in the mail, the cut at the corners is different than my first set

http://www.flickr.com/photos/29084067@N06/2807372086/
http://www.flickr.com/photos/29084067@N06/2807371976/

Nice. Looks like I'll be ordering a replacement today.

Now if I didn't have to go through the install process......:(

[Smacky]

Well this is my best attempt yet, corners look awesome, no lift, minimal bubbles, front is perfect

To keep the corners down try this - get some cling wrap and wrap it around the corners to keep them down.
http://www.flickr.com/photos/29084067@N06/2810375479/

I'll leave it overnight and hopefully by tomorrow it'll be perfect :)

[Linuss]

Best piece of advice for applying the back, but you need a second case. I personally have the DLO slam.



Apply the back, let it sit for a bit, then put it in side a real case and leave it overnight. As long as the case is tight enough, it will force the back part of the Bodyguardz to conform to the iPhone and it will dry all correct.


That's what I did and I have no edges sticking up.

[Smacky]

Woot finally perfect corners

http://flickr.com/photos/29084067@N06/2811628129/

:eek:

[macthille]

Woot finally perfect corners

http://flickr.com/photos/29084067@N06/2811628129/

:eek:

That was awesome ^^
The cling wrap did that??
Good job

[Espo]

That was awesome ^^
The cling wrap did that??
Good job

so you basically wrapped the phone in saran wrap really tightly and it worked?

[Smacky]

Yup just wrapped the corners tight

[Opie]

My Bodyguardz

[Rayfire]

How is the front screen protector? Does it resist smudges and finger prints or would a Power Support Anti-Glare Film Set do a better job?
For BG owners can someone answer this question quoted above? Thanks!

[Smacky]

Theres still a lot of smudges, I'd go for the antiglare if u dont want smudges

[Rayfire]

Theres still a lot of smudges, I'd go for the antiglare if u dont want smudges

Has anyone tried it though? A PS Anti Glare then a BG at the back? If anyone can post a pic of that set-up, it would be much appreciated! I just need feedbacks on people who've used that kind of set-up since I hate smudges.

[Linuss]

In my experience, there are a couple, but no where near the amount that other screen protectors do.

[acousticbiker]

Hi all. I'm currently using a Power Support Air Jacket (very thin rubberized case for the back) and Anti-Glare. I'm considering BG because there is an installer at a nearby mall and had a couple of questions:

1. How does the iPhone feel with BG? Does it still feel a bit slippery and gather smudges or does it feel a bit 'grippier'?
2. Just want to confirm that with a BG on, the iPhone still fits in the 3G dock?

[Rayfire]

Hi all. I'm currently using a Power Support Air Jacket (very thin rubberized case for the back) and Anti-Glare. I'm considering BG because there is an installer at a nearby mall and had a couple of questions:

1. How does the iPhone feel with BG? Does it still feel a bit slippery and gather smudges or does it feel a bit 'grippier'?
2. Just want to confirm that with a BG on, the iPhone still fits in the 3G dock?

I also have the same set-up as yours, considering also to place BG at the back and just leave the anti-glare up front.

I don't want to sacrifice an AG film if it won't fit the BG hehe