DLO nano fling

How to judge DLO’s nano fling? I fear I’m not the target demographic for this iPod nano case, which boasts such features as a built-in mirror and an elastic loop that can be used, as the company’s Web site explains, to hold a tube of lipstick. Still, these are features that are unique for cases I’ve come across and, to the case’s credit, they in no way detract from the case’s design or usability.

Coming in a variety of eye-popping designs, the nano fling is a difficult case to miss. I tested a shiny silver model that was among the least ostentatious of the available designs. (The case is also available in a variety of metallic hues, as well as several “snakeskin” and “crocodile” textures.) Like most flip cases, none of the controls are accessible with the nano fling’s front flap closed, though the headphone jack is accessible. When you flip open the front (which is secured with a hidden magnetic clasp), you find a mirror embedded in the inside cover and a sleeve into which you slide your nano. Once seated in place, the nano’s controls and screen are accessible through a clear plastic window. The iPod is fully covered except for the bottom corners, so you’ll have to remove the nano from the fling to access the nano’s dock connector.

Besides the included mirror, the nano fling includes an elastic loop on the back that can hold a tube of lipstick — or, for those not inclined to carry lipstick, a set of earbuds. (I tried using the loop to hold some pens, but they were so much longer than the case that it wasn’t worthwhile.) Unfortunately, the loop increases the case’s otherwise slim profile and in my testing ended up getting in the way more than anything else. The nano fling also includes a matching detachable wrist strap and a little DLO-branded “charm” that was not easily removable.

In the end, the nano fling is a perfectly usable case with a few additional features that might make it appeal to a certain segment of the market. The case doesn’t skimp on protection either; the front flap and the back of the case are both sturdy and well padded, so you needn’t worry about sacrificing safekeeping for looks. And for those who don’t find themselves in need of a mirror for reasons of personal appearance, you can always use it to signal your friends in Morse code or deflect laser beams. Just a suggestion.–Dan Moren