Database Develop

Looking for good plain case and (possibly) keyboard case

Recently bought a Nook Color, and already have a 32GB microSD card for it and have a pack of anti-glare screen protectors coming in on Saturday. I'm looking to add a plain case and a keyboard case (if possible) to complete my "accessory" set for it.
For the plain case, I'm just looking for something along the lines of the Otterbox Commuter case for it - something that will look nice and be able to protect it should it fall; I want to comfortably carry it on the street and not worry if it falls out of my hands. Just wondering, though - is it worth ~$40? I don't care about it covering the microSD card slot (I don't intend on removing it much), I'm just talking purely about protection and whether there's a better case for the price that would offer a similar level of protection. I don't need a "folio-type" case that will actually cover the screen, and I'd actually prefer that it isn't.
As for the keyboard case, I'm looking at something like this:
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B004OB0EBQ/
And I remember seeing one with a microUSB connector at the end, but I can't find it at the moment. Anyway, I'm wondering if there's such a keyboard case that would work via USB with the Nook Color (and if there's anything specific I need to do in terms of software - I have CM7.2 on it right now), since I've read that certain such devices won't work without a powered USB hub, and I'd rather not deal with that. I'm not too interested in Bluetooth keyboard cases both due to price and the hassle of Bluetooth (pairing, battery life, etc.), but if somebody knows of a cheap one that works well with the Nook Color then I'd be very interested.
Thanks!

I too have given up on bluetooth keyboards and I'm using this case:
http://www.caseyfrennier.com/nook-color-keyboard-case/
I like it. I've dropped it a few times too. On carpet though.

Peoplephobic said:
I too have given up on bluetooth keyboards and I'm using this case:
http://www.caseyfrennier.com/nook-color-keyboard-case/
I like it. I've dropped it a few times too. On carpet though.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I found that case here, with a microUSB plug (meaning the miniUSB plug and converter is unnecessary):
http://www.ebay.com/itm/170783937772
Great to know that it only requires an app to work. Think I might go with that and the Otterbox, since it seems like it should still fit according to the specs.

Nobody makes a micro usb female to usb male adapter that I've found so you won't be able to use that keyboard and a mouse and usb drive using a usb hub.
Good find though.

Peoplephobic said:
Nobody makes a micro usb female to usb male adapter that I've found so you won't be able to use that keyboard and a mouse and usb drive using a usb hub.
Good find though.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I thought about that (after I bought it =P), but I don't even have a wired mouse at the moment, or the need to plug in a flash drive. Just the keyboard plugged in is fine for me.

So I finally received the case this week and I've been using it a bit...I love it. My only two complaints are that it doesn't hold it well enough to prevent it from slipping out on the sides, and that the Nook Tweaks app to enable USB host doesn't always work properly (might have to re-enable settings and refresh a few times) - but certainly not a dealbreaker.
I'm still looking for a decent regular case, though, as the Otterbox is kinda pricey at ~$45.

magus57 said:
My only two complaints are that it doesn't hold it well enough to prevent it from slipping out on the sides, and that the Nook Tweaks app to enable USB host doesn't always work properly (might have to re-enable settings and refresh a few times) - but certainly not a dealbreaker.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Which case are you talking about here? Just for complete clarity, so I know what not to get.
--bornagainpenguin

bornagainpenguin said:
Which case are you talking about here? Just for complete clarity, so I know what not to get.
--bornagainpenguin
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The one I linked to:
http://www.ebay.com/itm/170783937772
From what I understand, the full-size USB version that can be bought on Amazon is identical in the way it holds the tablet. Again, I certainly wouldn't call it a dealbreaker especially since you can probably make some DIY straps to hold it better or something.

eBay has lots of cases. Got mine from a seller named letsshopdirect. $10 shipped. Whoo.

I bought a keyboard case, even with Nook Tweaks app and both USB settings checked, it wont work with my NC. I know its not the keyboard, cuz it works with other tablets. What am I doing wrong?
Oh, this may help: http://www.ebay.com/itm/310961491593?ssPageName=STRK:MEWNX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1497.l2649 its the link to the listing on ebay for my keyboard

I've used a universal case from Walmart which has yet to fail me.
Sent from my Touchpad using XDA Free mobile app

Case with built-in OTG

Do these exist for any device?
I don't know why you couldn't have a case that allows for the installation of an SD card while allowing you to physically mount your device within it..so everything looks flush, even if it makes your device an extra 1/2" long or w/e.

I'd never thought of that before. That's a rather clever idea; a case that is also a dock, perhaps. I suppose the various iphone battery cases are similar in execution, but since it is usb OTG, the opportunities are a lot more interesting with Android.

I think it would be awesome IF OTG didn't require root & stickmount. I doubt most accessory makers are going to go through the trouble of serving such a small market. Yes, most people at XDA will root, but we are probably less than 1% of the market.

I was thinking this too but have little hope we will see something come to market. I'm gonna order a few thick cases and see if I have room to cut out a spot for a lil built in microusb reader and think otg cable.

It would be nice if some manufacturer made a USB otg case with a battery built in also. Make it the ultimate media device, but able to shed the extra bulk whenever by simply removing the case.
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus using xda premium

You have to consider that using USB host uses some extra battery, so even if you aren't using any USB ports but have the case on it might decrease battery life.

omg
i just thought of this.
i took it a bit further tho.
having charging capabilities would be wonderfull
my thread
you beat me by a few hours
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1792704

I would just be happy with a good case that has a backup battery built in, I would also like one of those for my galaxy s2. Why do they only make those for the iPhone ? Does apple own the patent or something?!

proud_whovian said:
I would just be happy with a good case that has a backup battery built in, I would also like one of those for my galaxy s2. Why do they only make those for the iPhone ? Does apple own the patent or something?!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Apple owns the patent on the rectangle & the touch screen. And they're all lawyered up........be afraid.

I think what I'll end up doing is trying my hand at tearing apart an OTG cable and connecting with one of these:
http://www.usbfirewire.com/usb_cables_a_to_micro-b_up_angled_a_to_up_angled_micro_b_64.html
http://www.usbfirewire.com/usb_cables_a_to_micro-b_down_angled_a_to_down_angled_micro_b_66.html
http://www.theandroidsmartphone.com...-i9100-galaxy-s-ii-2-gt-n7000-galaxy-note.htm
Still not as low profile as I'd like, but if I can get a hard case with a little thickness, I might be able to make it look like 1 piece. It's not perfect, but it might be the best we've got (unless somebody already makes an OTG cable with an elbow). Be nice if I can peal back the rubber and expose just the plug and then set it up with a flat ribbon cable or something straight to an SD card.
It's amazing we can fit a bluetooth radio into the USB port and hardly add anything size wize, but looking for a microusb cable that's very low profile turns up nothing fruitful. . . Anybody know where to find bare microusb connectors?
Edit: Hmmmmm. . . http://www.foxlink.com/_en/2_product/2pro_detail.php?ID=137

[Concept] Case w/ built in OTG/Rear Camera/Memory/SD Slot

Ive seen posts about the usb cords/dongles that you can use to connect any usb device to ur tablet,
if any case manufactures are listening, maybe you can make a semi hard case that has this functionality built it. kinda like the battery cases you see for iphone, but without the crappy large battery
while retaining charging capabilities....
1. with usb connection built into the case, to plug in a thumb drive, or any other device.
2. with built in 32gb or 64 gb into the case, and with charging capability's.
3. with built in rear facing camera
many people would buy any of these, or possibly one with all of the above
i dont have the motivation or knowledge to get something like this rolling, but im sure it would be a hit with the nexus 7 crowds because we have limited storage.
just saying, i would like to know what other people think...
and if any manufactures to decide to use my idea, please send me a demo to review since used my idea

From a modding perspective I can already think of several ways for this to be achieved pretty easily (minus the camera, I don't really know those too well). If you're comfortable with a soldering iron and have a bunch of time on your hands, most of these things can be achieved pretty cheaply.

Would love to see/build/buy this.
(brainstorm activated)

No company will make these because people are already crying about a 40$ tag price for a quality case. All they want is to pay 5$... With these features the price is gonna be too high for alot of people.
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus using xda premium

I wonder if you could use the pogo connectors to get USB OTG to work for more storage?

I thought about this Saturday morning minus the camera. I might have to build a prototype and put it on kick starter. I wish that I had a partner, I have a few ideas how to build it. I guess I need moral support lol.
Sent from my Nexus 7 using Tapatalk 2

sadoway said:
Ive seen posts about the usb cords/dongles that you can use to connect any usb device to ur tablet,
if any case manufactures are listening, maybe you can make a semi hard case that has this functionality built it. kinda like the battery cases you see for iphone, but without the crappy large battery
while retaining charging capabilities....
1. with usb connection built into the case, to plug in a thumb drive, or any other device.
2. with built in 32gb or 64 gb into the case, and with charging capability's.
3. with built in rear facing camera
many people would buy any of these, or possibly one with all of the above
i dont have the motivation or knowledge to get something like this rolling, but im sure it would be a hit with the nexus 7 crowds because we have limited storage.
just saying, i would like to know what other people think...
and if any manufactures to decide to use my idea, please send me a demo to review since used my idea
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Why a rear camera? nothing looks lamer than someone taking a picture with a bulky tablet. thats what your phone is for.

I always thought Cameras were for taking pictures?

IIIPowerIII said:
No company will make these because people are already crying about a 40$ tag price for a quality case. All they want is to pay 5$... With these features the price is gonna be too high for alot of people.
Sent from my Galaxy Nexus using xda premium
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
A case with these capabilities is much different than a flap of material made in china.

add in extra battery haha. The Nexus Galaxy has the Hyperion case. If you made something similar for the nexus 7 and attach a micro USB to it. I would buy it. I dont need the extra battery power, but why waste extra space.
http://www.amazon.com/Hyperion-Rech...UTF8&colid=YT73S9A1ZS7X&coliid=I37XIVYNH3HLTI

Cont'd
I'd like a "case" with these features in the following order
1. OTG USB Hub
2. Stand of some sort
3. Full Size SD Card Slot
4. Extra battery
5. Decent Speakers (extra bass when in standing position)
6. 3G/4G module (like the IPOD to IPhone case, or perhaps a MiFi, or optional USB stick)
7. Built in battery charger
8. Keyboard
9. Camera
10. Solar Cell for charging
Cost = more expensive than the tablet but I'd still buy it

That is called a netbook! Hehehe! Peace!

I bought this tablet so that I didn't have all the bells and whistles and found I've used it so much more than the TF101 I have now sold. If I wanted all of those features in a case, I would have stuck with my original tablet .
Maybe I'm alone on this one... but I love that less is more and a case like that seems far too niche/defeats the purpose of the Nexus 7.
Sent from my Nexus 7 using XDA Premium HD app

Sorry you are behind. I bought two cases and I built in the otg cable and a 16GB flash drive into the case ad well and will be adding a small switch to build in a hub on the side for more USB on the side.
Sent from my Nexus 7 using Tapatalk 2

cmsjr123 said:
Sorry you are behind. I bought two cases and I built in the otg cable and a 16GB flash drive into the case ad well and will be adding a small switch to build in a hub on the side for more USB on the side.
Sent from my Nexus 7 using Tapatalk 2
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Post some pics! I've had this idea rattling around in my head for a couple weeks, just not enough initiative to do anything about it.

neilrl79 said:
Post some pics! I've had this idea rattling around in my head for a couple weeks, just not enough initiative to do anything about it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I would like a bit more info on this as well.
cmsjr123 said:
Sorry you are behind. I bought two cases and I built in the otg cable and a 16GB flash drive into the case ad well and will be adding a small switch to build in a hub on the side for more USB on the side.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Which parts did you use to make this? I am unsure on what case would be suitable as well as the OTG cable. I would think you would want one as thin as possible as well as a USB type hub to allow charging

I would like a bit more info

I am an experienced leather worker and have created many cases for tables. 3 for my mexus 7. if you have any more concrete ideas (drawings) and find someone to do the electronic work I can do anythingyou may need.
I can upload pics of some of my work if you want.

Androidrew said:
Why a rear camera? nothing looks lamer than someone taking a picture with a bulky tablet. thats what your phone is for.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I agree with you, but a rear camera would be nice for adding pictures to notes during a seminar, lecture or presentation.
FWIW, my grandma prefers her iPad for pictures because she can see the people and frame the picture better than a 3" screen on a point and shoot.
Back to the topic, I'd be in for an Otterbox type with the camera, SD card (can always convert micro to normal), and extra battery to drive the accessories would be a great kickstarter project. Leather would be a great bonus. The challenge would keeping the entire package small.
Would be an interesting project on a 3D printer.

This is something I was thinking about this i ot my tab. Except for the rear cam, this is for myself. Cause I am so piss off of those micro USB that so fragile. Broke already 2 OTG cables and one charger cable (don't had the cables I broke for my phone). After have to be realistic, battery expansion and rear cam would be too big and also expensive. For a 7" tab that only cost $250.
Also have to think about the jack plug that is not so far from the USB. Problem is that with all of it no manufacturer would produce it, not enough margin even if people could buy it about $50/60 non-leather case. But still hope to can find something like that one day ^^. Only way I see it to become real would be to regroup a certain amount of people (a thousand at least), having someone able to design it, then issue a call for tender. sweet dream ^^

[Q] Smart Wireless Charging Phone Sleeve for Nexus 6

Guys, I'm going to be launching a wireless charging phone sleeve on Kickstarter (Novelsys ampere) in January for the Nexus 6. The unique selling point will be the Smart app that communicates with the sleeve.
I'm doing research for the launch now to determine what features to incorporate in this app:
Display estimated battery life in hrs of phone and ampere
Control when charging starts
find your phone or ampere when one is missing
notifications to recharge at time or location
What other features would you like to see? I've recently posted in the S5 and Nexus 5 forums too, and I've been told not to dilute the product, which I agree with heartily. These are the features I've narrowed it down to. What other things do you think we need to bake in? It will probably be open to developers post-Kickstarter.
I myself use a Nexus 4 with Qi built in but I haven't found a satisfactory wireless charging solution yet... that's kinda why I worked on my own.
See more about the product: http://kickstarter.novelsys.co

Just subscribed on your website

Okay so this is meant to protect the phone and charge it at the same time? Im assuming there is a battery inside the case as well as a qi transmitter?

That's right. Paired with an app. And higher build quality than from your typical Qi charger. What do you think about the idea?

Subscribed as well...if you need a beta tester let me know.
Sent from my Nexus 5 using XDA Free mobile app

Looks excellent, but you need to figure out a solution to why sleeves suck, they either have no top and don't hold the phone well or are too tight.
As long as it comes in black so I can keep it on with my uniform!
I'll beta if I need to as well!

Would you like my wallet now, or later?
Seriously, I hope this will be as good as it sounds.

Yes its black, and the internal colour has been changed from orange to grey so its more suitable for corporate environments!
That's an interesting perspective on sleeves. Yes will take that into account when testing.

aiight, im jumping on the bandwagon too. :fingers-crossed:
just subb'ed and am following you cats on instagram...

I think I'm getting a QI enabled power bank for Christmas..... But a sleeve makes much more sense! I think its a great idea. Definitely more secure and will keep the QI aligned to ensure it stays charging.
Any info about the mah of the sleeve for the Nexus 6. Would need to be enough to charge the device at least twice in my opinion.
What about a using magnets to help secure the phone inside the sleeve instead of just tension?
Sent from my Nexus 6 using XDA Premium HD

honestly seems like a pretty good idea, the potential problems I see for this are targeting the correct consumer base. The phone is already big, this will make it huge, therefore its not going in anyones pocket. So, who carries phones around not in a pocket? People that have other places to put them, who has other places to put them?
1. Women (in their purse)
2. Older executives in a briefcase maybe?
3. College kids who might carry a backpack?
I may be wrong, but as much as I would like something like this, its just too inconvenient not to have my phone in my pocket. There's still some clip phone people out there, maybe adding a clip would help? Just my 2 cents, love the idea, just concerned its not being designed for the right demographic aesthetically.

The problem for me as others have mentioned is the bulkiness of the sleeve. When you add in the 3,000mah battery (assuming it would at least be this size) and coils for qi charging it's going to pretty thick. I'm Ok with that because this would be on my visor in my work truck, but wouldn't go great in pocket.

if you are taking the no idea is a bad idea approach, what if you incorporated this into a car mount with the display revealed, so every day I got into my car I could slide it in, and it would charge, then I could slide it out and take it with me, or if I KNEW i was going to need extra battery, I could detach the whole thing and clip it to a belt or throw it in a pack?

ejkeebler said:
if you are taking the no idea is a bad idea approach, what if you incorporated this into a car mount with the display revealed, so every day I got into my car I could slide it in, and it would charge, then I could slide it out and take it with me, or if I KNEW i was going to need extra battery, I could detach the whole thing and clip it to a belt or throw it in a pack?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Agree with this idea!

I don't mean to intercept, but in the meantime and between time...
I've received this pouch/sleeve (handmade) and posted a bit about it here:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=57285596&postcount=42
This pouch/sleeve has a front pocket and I slid in one of the Fone Qi Stone+ wireless portable chargers I use in that pouch and boom! Portable charging on the go.

Very cool idea man. I'll back that.

It looks promising, is there rough price range for the sleeve?

ejkeebler said:
if you are taking the no idea is a bad idea approach, what if you incorporated this into a car mount with the display revealed, so every day I got into my car I could slide it in, and it would charge, then I could slide it out and take it with me, or if I KNEW i was going to need extra battery, I could detach the whole thing and clip it to a belt or throw it in a pack?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's a pretty sweet idea! Maybe that could come as a stretch goal or in the next iteration of ampere. I originally included a pocket at the back of the sleeve for cards and cash but didn't like the aesthetics/ bulk of it. That could actually have been space for a belt clip. Hmm. I could find some way to hack around it maybe.... thanks for the brilliant idea.
marctronixx said:
I've received this pouch/sleeve (handmade) and posted a bit about it here:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=57285596&postcount=42
This pouch/sleeve has a front pocket and I slid in one of the Fone Qi Stone+ wireless portable chargers I use in that pouch and boom! Portable charging on the go.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Please, feel free to share. I've been searching tirelessly for potential competitors too so I can learn how to improve ampere's user experience.
You know what, that's where I got the idea for ampere too, but I think I've made ampere sufficiently sexy, slim, and seamless with alignment + smart charging app that you'll at least consider it over that? If you must know, that was what I put together for the MVP (prototype) to prove product validation. So I guess you can say you just recreated ampere v1.
Pilz said:
It looks promising, is there rough price range for the sleeve?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Too soon to say. Saving the reveal for Kickstarter. Trust you understand

kkl0wn said:
I think I'm getting a QI enabled power bank for Christmas..... But a sleeve makes much more sense! I think its a great idea. Definitely more secure and will keep the QI aligned to ensure it stays charging.
Any info about the mah of the sleeve for the Nexus 6. Would need to be enough to charge the device at least twice in my opinion.
What about a using magnets to help secure the phone inside the sleeve instead of just tension?
Sent from my Nexus 6 using XDA Premium HD
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I thought about magnets too, but the sleeve itself helps with securing the phone and alignment. Magnets would make it harder to get the phone out of the sleeve, and would necessitate some kind of strap to lift the phone out, which in turn adds some to bulk.

tongrhj said:
Too soon to say. Saving the reveal for Kickstarter. Trust you understand
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I completely understand, either way it looks like a nice idea, and a convenient way to charge your phone.

[Q] still buy a dock?

Hi i have owned the tablet for less then a year. Is it worth it to still invest in a dock among other things? Would you still at this stage? Its expensive. Is it like goo? Thnx.

Buy a dock?
Just went with the Zaggs universal. Has no USB, extended battery or hdd but is bluetooth and works very well. No problems with the tablet tipping and very easy to remove the tablet. Unlike many others I've seen this is a hard case and offers better protection. On the downside, it doubles the weight of the tablet .
Still worth it if you want a reliable keyboard and can do without the extras the dock provides.

Personally, I have had no issues with the dock. It's a little rough adding and removing but I want a snug fit. I really like the extra 10 hrs of battery as well as the USB, and sd card slot. To me, the extra battery is the main reason I got it.

SirDevan said:
Personally, I have had no issues with the dock. It's a little rough adding and removing but I want a snug fit. I really like the extra 10 hrs of battery as well as the USB, and sd card slot. To me, the extra battery is the main reason I got it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It looks quite nice I think its just a bit too expensive for me.
Otherwise I guess it would be quite useful.
The thing is I dropped the tablet a couple times and if something were to happen to it, which it could, I would want to fix it myself or say to hell with it.
I just recently replaced the usb port on the nexus 7 2012. Good as new. Thankfully they had plenty of those among other things and guides on how to fix it.

You can get a dock for this right now on Woot for 20$ including shipping.... Highly recommend it.
The extra battery life makes this something you can take on vacation and leave your lap top at home

Here’s your dock and I doubt anything else will come as cheap
Asus Transformer Pad Keyboard Dock TF701T - $16.99 + $5 standard shipping
https://computers.woot.com/offers/a...1t?utm_source=wootappatlanta&utm_medium=share

Looks like you reading are in luck, I am selling one brand new and the date on the back is 2014.04
https://www.ebay.com/itm/ASUS-TF701...-Keyboard-Add-on-Battery-USB-3-0/283565558873