iPhone: The Missing Manual, 3rd Edition

Appendix B. Accessories

Like the iPods that came before it, the iPhone is inspiring a torrent of accessories that seems to intensify with every passing month. Stylish cases, speakers, docks, cables—the list goes on.

This appendix gives you a tiny representative sampling. It also points you in the right direction so you can find iPhone accessories that look good, sound good, and most importantly—fit.

Proper Shopping for the iPhone

This is the most important thing to remember when you're looking for iPhone hardware: Not all iPod and iPhone accessories are created equal. (Or, as Yoda might say:Created equal, not all iPod and iPhone accessories are.)

For example:

• The shape of the iPhone 3G and 3GS is different from the original iPhone's. Form-fitting cases, sockets, and accessories designed for the original iPhone don't fit the newer ones.

• The first-generation iPhone's headphone jack is recessed, so regular headphone stereo miniplugs don't fully connect.

• The iPhone is also a phone, with components inside that can cause static, buzz, and interference when used with external speakers (which have their own electronic innards). So accessories intended for the iPod may not work.

To help you identify products that are compatible with the iPhone, Apple has its own "Works with iPhone" logo program. As the company puts it, products bearing the logo are "electronic accessories designed to connect specifically to iPhone and certified by the developer to meet Apple performance standards."

Getting ...