Element Case's Soft-Tec iPhone 5, Galaxy S3 Wallet Case Now Out

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Known for its machined aluminum cases, Element Case's new Soft-Tec line of synthetically-made cases for the iPhone 5, Galaxy S3 and the iPad mini are finally available for purchase. We first reported on the Soft-Tec cases back in January where Element Case first debut its new offerings at CES 2013. The company has released a $50 Soft-Tec wallet case for both the iPhone 5 and Galaxy S3 which is made using a new non-slip, grippy rubber material from Element Case called Tech Grip. The supposedly high-tech material is a coating with a matte rubbery finish made to enhance the grip and feel of the case. We've seen a similar material used in the TidyTilt iPhone cover.

Element Case's Soft-Tec case has a slim protective profile with two card slots located on the inner flap. The Soft-Tec wallet case also features a magnetic closure and an embedded snap-on polycarbonate hard shell that can be folded into a horizontal viewing stand much like Twelve South's SurfacePad cover.

We can't help but think about how this case opens almost like an old-school Velcro wallet, with lots of excess flap left to deal with while you're using your device Luckily, there's an earpiece cutout to enable you to talk on the phone whilst the Soft-Tec's flap remains closed. Both Soft-Tec models for Apple's and Samsung's handsets are designed exaclty the same, while Element Case's $65 Soft-Tec case for the iPad mini understandably leaves out the credit card slots. 

Element Case Soft Tec iPhone 5 Wallet, iPad mini Folio Cases

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Element Case showed some of its new and upcoming iPhone and iPad accessories at CES 2013, some including an iPhone 5 wallet case and an iPad mini folio-style case with stand features and a thin profile called the Soft Tec. Each designed with a polycarbonate hard shell that snaps onto the back of the iPhone 5 or iPad mini. What's interesting is how unique Element Case managed to make its iPhone 5 wallet case. The wrap-around design incorporates a magnetic closure, complete bottom and top opening, a camera and earpiece speaker cutouts - and a durable rubbery textured exterior that matches that of the iPad mini Soft Tec folio case. Element Case will also release a Soft Tec wallet case for Samsung's Galaxy S3.

The interior of the Soft Tec series is covered with Element Case's iconic soft, Ultrasuede material. The Soft Tec iPhone 5 wallet case will only let you store two credit cards and should retail for around $45. The iPad mini Soft Tech folio case has built-in magnets that will work with the iPad mini's magnetic sleep and awake function. It'll retail for $70. Element Case is expected to make its Soft Tec series of cases available in February.

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