Windows Phone Thoughts: French Riviera Elegance - a Noreve Case Review

Belting Up
Unfortunately, I didn't find the belt clip very useful. The clip itself is awkward to attach to the belt since it doesn't have the usual hinged tooth which you squeeze and fit over your belt while you're wearing it.


Figure 11: A view of the clip portion which attaches to your belt. While there is a spring-loaded release for the case (at the top), you must thread the belt through the slot on the right, as there is no way to fit the holder over the belt.

Instead, I had to take off part of my belt, thread it through the clip, then back into my belt loops. There were no included instructions as to how to install the belt clip button on the back of the case, but it was pretty straightforward, and a screwdriver is supplied. Even with the mounting screw tightened down though, the button does not cinch up tight to the case, so there is a little bit of 'rattle' to it. Removing the PDA from belt clip is also difficult as the release button is very close to the PDA and blocked by the top cover. I consistently needed two hands to push down the button and remove it.


Figure 12: Here's a view of the belt clip with a belt inserted. At the red arrow, you can see the very narrow space available between the release button and the top flap of the cover. It's difficult to get at the release to get the case off your belt.

I think this needs some time back at the drawing board.

Conclusions
This is a beautifully crafted case and should do a good job of protecting your PPC/Phone from the normal bumps of everyday life. I love the fact that there is appropriate storage for Mini and MicroSD cards included, as well as a couple of credit cards or business cards. For the next version, I think a cutaway should be included for access to the USB port, and the belt clip needs some re-working of its ergonomics.

Don is an Associate Director with Fujitsu Consulting and the Lead for its Mobility Community of Excellence.