With the popularity of the new Apple iPhone 6 and 6 Plus comes a raft of new cases. A random survey of several iPhone 6 cases follows (Plus cases are also offered in most instances):
Catalyst Waterproof Case: This ultra-slim case (0.42 inches) is waterproof to 16.4 feet submersion, has an integrated touch-screen film and offers impact protection up to 6.6 inches, a rubber bumper and access to the Touch ID feature of the phone. Available in a variety colors, $69.99; www.catalystlifestyle.com.
Fortress 3 Aluminum Bumper Case: Crafted from a solid block of aluminum, the Fortress is coated with a satin finish to match your iPhone (gold, silver, slate). The bumper, whose locking device needs no screws, is so light that it virtually retains the size and weight of the phone. $19.99; www.xgearlive.com.
Pong Case: Pong's calling card, according to its manufacturer, is its "intelligent antenna" technology that reduces exposure to what some maintain is dangerous-to-your-health wireless energy while at the same time optimizing the outbound signal and thereby extending battery life. The Pong cases come in sleek and rugged styles and a variety of colors. $49.99 and $69.99; www.pongcase.com.
Seidio Obex Case: Waterproof up to 6.6 feet for 30 minutes, the Obex is designed to protect your iPhone under most imaginable circumstances. It is impact-proof, dust-proof and element-proof (resistant to extreme temperature changes). Other protective attributes include a screen protector, integrated rubber flaps that cover the audio and charging ports, and easy-on and easy-off access. Available in several color combinations. Weight: 1.9 ounces. $64.99; www.seidioonline.com.
BuQu PowerArmour Battery Case: BuQu (pronounced boo-koo) Tech, a California-based firm, is responsible for this case, which features an integrated, 2,800 AH battery to keep your iPhone powered when you most need it. Its virtues include a slim, lightweight design, an LED gauge to monitor battery power, a power-saving on-off switch and a micro USB cable to charge both the phone and the internal battery from a standard USB outlet. $79.99; www.buqutech.com.
Macally Tank 6MB: Easy to grip and reassuringly rugged, the Tank offers a nonslip rubberized exterior, a hard-shell casing and complete access to all buttons, connections and controls. It is available in black. $12.99; www.macally.com.
Trentium 6S: This shock-proof case weighs only 1.5 ounces yet sports a two-piece thermoplastic polyurethane shell and a polycarbonate cover. The ultra-thin case (it adds only 5mm to the naked iPhone 6) enables the user to employ interchangeable black, silver or gold back plates to accessorize the look. $21.95; www.newtrent.com.
Mujjo Leather Wallet Case: This case comes in gray, black and tan, and is a painless way to stylishly protect your iPhone while at the same time enabling you to carry up to three credit cards in a stitched card pocket with an easy-access slanted opening. The gray case, like the tan made of quality vegetable-tanned leather, has been relieved of its color to create a unique monochrome aspect. From a Dutch designer label, the Mujjo is as classy-looking as it is practical. $49.95; www.mujjo.com.
OtterBox Symmetry System: A product from OtterBox, one of the most reliable names in smartphone protection, the one-piece Symmetry cases are slim, protective and colorful, featuring a full array of wrap-around colors and graphics. A raised-beveled edge adds to its built-in shock and drop protection. $39.95; www.otterbox.com.
Kenu Highline: This snap-on case comes with a reinforced elastic coil leash that keeps you and your iPhone securely connected to a belt loop, stroller straps, purse handles and the like. It is the ideal case to keep your phone safe from accidental drops or theft when deploying it while skiing, rock climbing or other physical activities. The Highline system plugs into the iPhone's Lightning port and a tiny notch in the case. $29.95; www.kenu.com.
PureGear PX360 System: Made for the intrepid traveler, this case (its full name is the PX360 Extreme Protection System) boasts a rugged, impact-resistant, screw-on design that includes covers to keep dirt and dust out of your iPhone's ports. In addition, an attached carabiner enables you to attach your phone to a backpack, purse, etc., for hands-free security. The PX360 also comes with an installation tool that doubles as a kickstand. It is available in matte black and several other colors. $39.99; www.pure-gear.com.
TaskOne G3 Case: What sets this case apart is a built-in tool kit that includes a 2.5-inch serrated knife, a 1.8-inch saw blade, a flint fire starter, six hex keys, small and large flathead screwdrivers, a Phillips screwdriver and a bottle opener. This handyman special is completed by six box wrenches, pliers with wire cutters, a 5-inch ruler, a wire stripper, a reciprocating saw-blade mount, and landscape and portrait kickstands. The case's blade is removable in seconds with no tools so it can be placed in your checked luggage or left at home. The case, which is available in black, red and orange, weighs less than 3.5 ounces. $74.95; www.thetasklab.com.