I have been a big fan of the Joby Gorillamobile since it was first released for the iPhone. I love the bendable flexible tripod that allows me to have my iPhone securely attached to just about any surface and then held there for pictures. One of the best uses for it is to set up the iPhone in a specific place using the tripod and then allow the iPhone to take a series of time-lapse pictures. It works beautifully and, because of the excellent design and build quality of the tripod, I feel secure that my iPhone isn’t going to drop and fall to an untimely death.
I was interested when the company released a new Gorillamobile for the iPod touch. I was especially curious when I read on the back of the box that it’s useful for — watching TV, listening to music, playing games, surfing the net, and (this is what raised questions for me) capturing pictures. Why would it refer to capturing pictures when the fact the iPod touch doesn’t have a camera. (Thanks Steve Jobs for pulling it at the last second last fall.)
Well, it turns out there is a good reason why it mentions capturing images on the box. I’ve been using the GorillaMobile for iPod touch for about two weeks now and I’m really quite impressed. Let’s take a look.
The only iPod touch case that comes with its own set of flexible, bendable legs.
Soft-touch iPod touch case quickly clips on and off the Gorillamobile
A lock ring provides extra security to ensure your device is safely attached.
Over two dozen leg joints bend and rotate 360°.
Rubberized ring and foot grips provide enhanced stability on difficult terrain.
Universal camera adapter (1/4” tripod screw)
Removable adhesive clips detach without leaving residue behind.
Okay, so first things first. The reason the box includes mention of taking pictures is that they wisely include additional inserts for holding devices besides the iPod touch. Most specifically includes a personal camera adapter that allows the tripod to be used with just about any small camera. I checked and it works with everyone that I own. In addition it comes with two adhesive clips which can be placed on the back of just about any iPhone case (or other device case as well) so that the tripod can be used with an iPhone in exactly the same manner that I’ve been using it since the original device came out quite a while ago.
In other words, this is a tripod that you purchase specifically to work with your iPod touch but it doesn’t limit you to only use it with your iPod touch. No, instead you can use it with any camera, your iPhone and a much any other small electronics device that you can think of. That makes it a good deal from the beginning.
What makes this Setup specific to the iPod touch is the fact that it comes with A soft-touch iPod touch case that can quickly be clipped on and off the Gorillamobile.
The case makes the iPod touch about the same thickness as an iPhone 3GS but with far more tapered sides. On the back is a “clip” for securely attaching it to the tripod.
The case is not of the “lay on the table” designs so it does not offer any protection for the screen. At the same time it does mean that there is no interference with actually using it.
When using the tripod the iPod touch is secure, stable and raised to a better height for watching video.
Here is a shot from the side…
And from the back…
The Joby Gorillamobile for iPod touch has an MSRP of $39.95 and is available directly from Joby’s Web site.
What I Like:
Holds the touch securely, usable with cameras and The iPhone so that it is not limited to any one or two devices
What Needs Improvement:
Nothing! This is a great product that does what it says… And more.
AND NOW FOR THE CONTEST PORTION OF OUR REVIEW…
We have two to give away. We’ll do so on Monday (hey, Saturday and Sunday we’ll be a bit too busy playing with our iPads…).
In order to enter to win simply leave a comment telling us how you would use the Joby Gorillamobile for iPod touch with… Your iPod touch.
Simple. Fun. And thanks to Joby for making this giveaway possible.