Update: Here’s the official word from OtterBox regarding Touch ID compatibility: “The Preserver Series for the iPhone 5s incorporates a thin layer of a specially formulated material that allows for full functionality of the Touch ID fingerprint scanner technology while keeping the case completely sealed from water.”

One of the the most well-known tough case manufacturers, OtterBox, today announced their new Preserver Series waterproof cases for the iPhone 5/5s/5c and Samsung Galaxy S4. It aims to provide peace of mind for smartphone users in wet, dusty, and messy environments. Most notably, it provides protection in up to 6.6 feet while keeping a stylish slim-line design.

“About 70 percent of the Earth’s surface is covered in water, and technology is almost as pervasive,” said OtterBox CEO Brian Thomas. “We take our smartphones with us everywhere, and OtterBox is dedicated to making these activities as worry-free as possible. The Preserver Series is dependable, seriously waterproof protection that you can trust.”

The Preserver Series is also dust proof and drop proof for tumbles as high as 6.6 feet. All functions remain accessible through the case even though each port and button are fully protected. It is unclear how OtterBox is achieving a complete waterproof solution for the iPhone 5s while keeping access to the Touch ID sensor. It appears the entire screen is covered by a built-in screen protector except for the Touch ID sensor which could be waterproofed with the same technology found in Lifeproof Nuud cases. This would make sense as Otterbox recently acquired Lifeproof. We have reached out to OtterBox for clarification and will update this post when we have more information.

The iPhone 5 Preserver Series case is $89.95 and is available for shipping now. The iPhone 5s/5c cases are not yet available for order and pricing information is not currently known. Save up to 15% on any OtterBox.com order with coupon code AM2012.

Full press release follows:

LATEST APPLE AND SAMSUNG SMARTPHONES GET SERIOUSLY WATERPROOF WITH NEW OTTERBOX PROTECTION Tuesday, October 15, 2013 9:00 am MDT FORT COLLINS, Colo.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Today’s top smartphones can do just about everything, and with the newest case from OtterBox, they can go just about everywhere. From the No. 1 trusted case brand for smartphone protection comes a new line that allows technology users to embrace all the wet, messy, spontaneous fun life has to offer.* Introducing the OtterBox® Preserver Series® available now for the Apple® iPhone® 5 and coming soon for the iPhone 5s, iPhone 5c and Samsung® GALAXY S®4. The OtterBox Preserver Series allows smartphone users to take on life’s daily adventures and extraordinary pursuits without thinking about the safety of their devices. This slim-line case provides the following protection**: Waterproof: fully submergible up to 6.6 ft. for 30 minutes (IP-X8) Drop proof: protects device from drops up to 6.6 ft. (MIL STD 810G-516.6) Dust proof: blocks entry of dust and debris particles (IP-6X) “About 70 percent of the Earth’s surface is covered in water, and technology is almost as pervasive,” said OtterBox CEO Brian Thomas. “We take our smartphones with us everywhere, and OtterBox is dedicated to making these activities as worry-free as possible. The Preserver Series is dependable, seriously waterproof protection that you can trust.” The two-piece case snaps together for easy installation. It boasts a solid plastic frame lined with device-cradling foam and overmolded bumpers to absorb and deflect shock away from the device inside. The built-in screen protector guards the vibrant display from scratches without inhibiting touch sensitivity. Protection doesn’t come at the cost of functionality with these precision-engineered GALAXY S4 and iPhone waterproof cases. All features are fully accessible and audio quality is uncompromised. The Preserver Series includes an adjustable lanyard for convenient, confident carrying. The Preserver Series is seriously waterproof protection for every moment in life. To learn more, visit otterbox.com. About OtterBox: Starting with something as simple as a box, OtterBox® was founded in 1998 with a line of indestructible dry boxes. Today, OtterBox is the No. 1-selling case for smartphones and offers an extensive lineup of premium screen protectors and other device-enhancing accessories that complement various consumer lifestyles.* OtterBox’s strong relationships with the leading mobile device manufacturers, retailers and wireless services providers delivers unrivaled value, world-class customer service and a continued commitment to premium product quality. OtterBox has been a six-time honoree on the Inc. 5000 ranking of fastest growing private companies in the U.S., recognized by Forbes Magazine on ‘America’s Most Promising Companies’ and is a repeat honoree in the Great Place to Work® annual survey published by FORTUNE Magazine. The family-owned, private company has global headquarters in Fort Collins, Colo. and offices in Boston, San Diego, Cork, Ireland and Hong Kong. For more information, visit otterbox.com. We’ve Got Technology Covered. Note: *Source: The NPD Group/Retail Tracking Service/November 2010 – March 2013 **Results may vary

0 0

FTC: We use income earning auto affiliate links. More.

Check out 9to5Mac on YouTube for more Apple news: