Emphasis is given on material quality to enhance design, performance and durability.

TOP TRENDS

• Boosting visual appeal: China suppliers are introducing models that match the iPhone and latest smartphones. Several releases enable users to check the handset directly through a clear window. Variants with an armband structure, which are typically for sports use, are increasingly becoming popular. For added appeal, cartoon patterns are incorporated in some items.
• Added functionality: Under efforts to enrich selections, makers include pockets for coins or earphones. Several models may also come with stylus pen sleeves.
• Material safety: Aside from passing industrial tests such as SGS, manufacturers ensure that the neoprene adopted in mobile phone cases are azo-free and meet international standards, including EN 71 and REACH.
• Sales & price projections: Most China suppliers forecast sales will remain steady in 1H12, thanks to robust orders in end-2011. The popularity of neoprene mobile phone cases in Australia and North America will likewise spur demand. Meanwhile, quotes are projected to stay at current levels in 1Q12 on the back of stable raw material costs.

Product gallery Canfine Toys Ltd Model: CF-1647 Description: Neoprene, SBR; silk-screen, heat-transfer printing; water-resistant; custom designs accepted

Dongguan Prince Products Co. Ltd Model: PMP01-1 Description: Neoprene; for iPhone 4; water-resistant; 43cm armband length

Dongguan Saivlon Sports Goods Ltd Model: MPB247 Description: Neoprene, 3mm thick; for iPhone, BlackBerry mobile phones; pouch, adjustable belt; water-resistant

Myx-Games Interactive Co. Model: BH-IP16201 Description: Neoprene; for iPhone 4; slip entry/closure system; with stylus; blue, orange, silver

Shenzhen IT GSM Technology Co. Ltd Model: IPH4-BRW-FNL-ZIP Description: Neoprene, flannel; for iPhone, BlackBerry, HTC, Motorola, Samsung mobile phones; 140x85x25mm

Wuxi Super-Strong Sports Products Co. Ltd Model: SS-5015 Description: Neoprene, 2mm thick; for iPhone; two zippers; various colors

Note: This article "Suppliers of mobile phone cases improve visual appeal, functionality" was originally published by Global Sources, a leading business-to-business media company and a primary facilitator of trade with China manufacturers and India suppliers, providing essential sourcing information to volume buyers through our e-magazines, trade shows and industry research.

All price quotes in this report are in US dollars unless otherwise specified. FOB prices were provided by the companies interviewed only as reference prices at the time of interview and may have changed.

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