Dubbed by Mashable as a sort of Swiss Army Knife for smartphones, a new, multi-use iPhone 5 accessory proves that expanding on your phone's functionality goes way beyond apps. Sometimes you need a physical tool, and the new Kickstarter campaign for the XiStera iPhone 5 accessory promises just that.

This nifty, multi-purpose tool works in tons of ways to let you get more out of your iPhone and to make your daily life just a bit easier. As far as iPhone 5 accessories go, the XiStera's got most of what you could desire.

About the size of a wine bottle opener, it works as a multi-position stand for your iPhone, a lens adapter, a wrap for your headphone cord, a tripod mount, and doubles as a stylus and optional LED lighting system. Oh, and it's also a bottle opener and keychain too.

XiStera iPhone 5 accessory with optional LED lighting system

So essentially, the XiStera offers 8 different functionalities in one, allowing you to position, wrap, adapt, secure, illuminate, attach – and our favorite – celebrate.

When it's idle, this iPhone 5 accessory neatly attaches to the upper corner of your iPhone, with only about a quarter of the bulk of a regular iPhone 5 case. And it looks like it's going to be pretty affordable too.

Meanwhile, XIStera seems to be eyeing the countless possibilities for optional add-on accessories. And they're already at work on compatible iPhone car mounts and bike mounts, as well as a range of lenses and stylus covers in different colors.

One of the coolest iPhone 5 accessories to come out in so many months, it's no surprse that the XiStera has already reached its initial Kickstarter goal of $19,000 in just three days. They're now pushing toward their second fundraising target of $100,000, and something tells us they'll get there.

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At the Pure Mobile blog, we're pretty fond of carrying cases and skins. Let's face it, they're something we use day in and day out. But today's Mobile accessory of the week is one of the unsung heroes of the cell phone accessory world. Yes, we're talking about chargers, and about PureGear's latest iPhone 5 Car Charger.

High tech cases are great and all. But if you've ever run out of battery on your iPhone, you'll know why chargers really hold the power in the grand scheme of things. Not much you can do witha dead phone huh?

But that's something you won't have to worry about too often with this new iPhone 5 charger. Since it's a car charger, you can power up while you're on the go. Just sit back, hook up your device, turn on the radio, and go. You'll be set when you reach your destination.

That alone isn't enough to make this charger our Accessory of the Week. But did we mention that PureGear's also built this charger kit with an extra USB port?

PureGear iPhone 5 Car Charger with Extra USB

Yep, it's a simple addition to a pretty standard product, but it makes all the difference, since you'll be able to power up your iPhone as well as your iPad, iPod – or any other device that charges via USB connection – simultaneously.

Oh, and PureGear's patented circuit board is especially designed to protect your gadgets from short circuits.

Your iPhone, iPad and iPod aren't much more than lumps of plastic, glass and metal if they're not charged. And this iPhone 5 car charger with extra USB from PureGear will help you make sure it never comes to that. May not sound as exciting as a new camera lens for your iPhone or a sexy new carrying case, but every bit as important, if not way more so.

We at Pure Mobile are pretty excited about the new arrival at our shop of the latest from one of the best iPhone accessories makers. Incipio's DualPro iPhone 5 case has just hit the shelves. And not only is it every bit as tough and protective as the older models for iPhone 4 and 4s, this newest line of Incipio carrying cases comes in a super fun assortment of bright colors.

Incipio DualPro iPhone 5 Case in Grey and Yellow

First off, let's delve into the practical side of things. Incipio's carrying cases are notoriously slim and streamlined considering the level of protection they offer. That's an especially importnat point when it comes to accessories for iPhone 5, since one of the high points of the device itself is its slim and sleek design.

If you want specifics, the carrying case is only one millimetre thick, so it really won't add any bulk to your phone. And though the DualPro isn't quite as light as Incipio's Feather carrying case (it's still light, however), that's only because it's slightly sturdier.

Designed with a shatter-resistant polycarbonate outer layer and shock-absorbing silicone inner layer, the Dual Pro carrying case is notably one of Incipio's toughest and best iPhone 5 accessories.

Incipio DualPro iPhone 5 Case in Purple and Gray

Now onto looks. Putting the polycarbonate layer on the outside rather than the inside means the DualPro has a sweet matte finish that's soft to the touch and shows up colors in a really nice way. And boy, did Incipio have fun with colors this time.

Whether you're a classic black kind of person or your favorite color is hot pink, you'll find your hue in this bright and colorful lineup of cases. For our part, Pure Mobile's carrying it in purple, pink, and a fun grey and yellow combo that works just as well for guys and girls.

Incipio DualPro iPhone 5 Case in Pink

This is one of those rare times when a carrying case brings together a cool look, reliable protection and sleek design. And we'd definitely rank the DualPro Incipio carrying case among both the coolest and best iPhone 5 accessories.

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Incipio already makes some of the best iPhone accessories out there, with a huge line of protective carrying cases that run the gamut from slim and lightweight to ultra tough. But with today's mobile accessory of the week, the cell phone accessories maker has turned it up a notch. Meet the Atlas, Incipio's new waterproof iPhone 5 case.

Incipio Atlas Waterproof iPhone 5 Case in White and Pink

This newly released accessory is perfectly timed for summer, when you'll probably need a waterproof iPhone case. Meanwhile, the Atlas is well-geared to take on any other wear and tear your phone might see during your summer adventures.

The tempered glass front on this iPhone 5 case is the secret to its waterproofing, while its high-density silicone skin provides shock absorption and proetcts from drops, even on hard surfaces.

Incipio Atlas Waterproof iPhone 5 Case in White and Pink

Probably one of the most protective cases Incipio's ever made, the Atlas not only offers top-notch protection from water, but is otherwise perfect for a day at the beach, since it also protects your phone from dust and dirt.

A quick look at Incipio's campaign video for the Atlas will show you the kind of abuse this carrying case is designed to handle. We see a skier drop his iPhone into a pile of snow, and a beach-goer kick sand all over hers.

If you're an active type who likes to get out and bout, it's nice not to have to worry about whether or not your phone is safe all the time. And with the Incipio Atlas, you'll be able to just go about your day and know your phone is well protected. Not to mention the case is really compact and is easy to snap on and off

Because it provides so much protection from so many different dangers, we'd even venture to say that the Atlas is the best iPhone 5 case Incipio has ever made. And with the company's already impressive lineup of iPhone accessories, that's saying something.

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OtterBox's Armor Series iPhone 5 Cases in Bright Summer Colors

Ah, summer! It's right around the corner and for us at Pure Mobile, that means it's time to start rounding up some of the best cell phone accessories for the warmer months. Whether it means a waterproof carrying case, or somewhere to stash your cash and cards for a day at the beach, we're bringing you our top picks with this list of the 5 best iPhone 5 cases for summer 2013.

Read on for our favorite accessories to keep your phone dry and looking hot, from leading brands like OtterBox, Incipio, LifeProof and Griffin.

5: Incipio Stashback iPhone 5 Case

Incipio Stashback iPhone 5 Case in Pink and Gray

Warm summer weather probably means you've got a lot less pockets to stash your phone, cash and credit cards. But with Incipio's Stashback iPhone 5 case, you can keep everything together in one place.

This iPhone 5 carrying case doubles as a wallet, with an exterior compartment for cash and cards, so you won't miss your winter jacket's pocket space. We especially like it in hot pink for the summer months.

2: Griffin Reveal iPhone 5 Case

Griffin Reveal iPhone 5 Case in Pool Blue

Again, since summer means fewer pockets, you probably want to go with a slim and compact phone case this season. And Griffin's Reveal iPhone 5 case offers a compact "barely there" option that's super portable but also quite protective.

WIth a clear back and bright color options "Pool Blue" it simply screams summer.

3. OtterBox Pursuits 40 Dry Box

OtterBox Pursuits 40 Dry Box for iPhone 5 or Galaxy S4 in Blue

Now, onto the waterproof accessories.

If you're planning on doing any water sports or outdoor activities like hiking or camping this summer, an accessory that keeps your phone and valuables dry and safe is a must. More than just an iPhone 5 case, OtterBox's Pursuits 40 dry box actually fits a bunch of other essentials as well, keeping all the important stuff safe in one place.

But it does feature a rubber mesh compartment specifically designed to keep your iPhone 5 (or any other device) securely in place. And it'll protect your phone from all manner of mishaps, like drops, shocks, bumps and, of course, water.

4. LifeProof Fre iPhone 5 waterproof case

LifeProof Fre Waterproof iPhone 5 Case in Black

If you'd rather just keep your phone dry, and don't need a whole dry box, accessories maker LifeProof has built a name for itself with its signature waterproof accessories. And their Fre iPhone 5 case is among the most reliable in this department.

It doesn't just protect your phone from spills and rain, it actually allows you to totally submerge your phone, which means you can easily take pictures and video underwater. We couldn't think of an accessory that's more suited to poolside summer days.

5. OtterBox Armor iPhone 5 Case

OtterBox Armor iPhone 5 Case in Black and Green

Another waterproof OtterBox iPhone 5 case, the Armor goes beyond protection from water to offer protection from drops, bumps, scratches, shocks and even crushing force.

It's the all-around package, and therefore a great accessory for anyone planning an active summer. We also like the hot shades it comes in, from bright green or blue, to vibrant orange.

Summer's a great time to get out, and you want to make sure you've got an accessory that lets your phone go everywhere with you. And with any one of our top 5 iPhone 5 cases for hot summer days, that should be no problem.

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OtterBox already has a reputation for rugged protection. With ultra-tough, super-engineered accessories like their Defender case for Galaxy S4, iPhone 5 and more, it's a reputation that's more than earned. But today's Pure Mobile accessory of the week, the OtterBox Pursuits 40 Dry Box, takes things even further than everyday protection.

A hardcore carrying case for real adventures, the Pursuits 40 is a modern reinvention of the classic outdoorsman's dry box. And of course, being the 21st Century, that means it's designed to hold your smartphone, as well as other survival gear. It's even got a mesh panel that can accomodate a slew of phone models, from the iPhone 4S and 5, to Galaxy S3 and Galaxy S4, BlackBerry handsets and way more.

OtterBox Pursuits 40 Dry Box in Blue

With an internal volume of about 30 cubic inches, this totally waterproof case can take on a Galaxy S4 or iPhone 5 that's already in a case, with lots of room left over for  other things you'll need to keep safe and dry – valuables, bandages, ID, and small electronics.

Rubber mats on the interior cushion the contents from shocks and impact, while the rubber mesh panel keeps your phone snugly in place.

OtterBox Pursuits 40 Dry Box in Black

And since this is after all an OtterBox case, the Pursuits 40 Dry Box is built like a fortress. This carrying case is not only completely waterproof up to 100 ft., it's also drop proof, dust proof and crush proof, tested to withstand up to 1,000 lbs. of force.

But just in case you're still worried about dropping it, the Pursuits 40 comes with carabiner loops that make it super easy to secure to a backpack or to otherwise keep close at hand.

We've already seen the level of protection OtterBox can offer when it comes to accessories for single devices, like iPhone and Galaxy Carrying cases. SO we can only assume that they've applied the same thoughtful design and rigorous testing to this larger, more robust case.

Perfect for adventurers, outdoorsy types and every kind of traveler imaginable, the Pursuits 40 Dry Box is a one-of-a-kind accessory that not only protects your smartphone the way only OtterBox could, but lets you go new places with total confidence in the safety of your valuables, electronics and survival gear. And that makes it our accessory of the week.

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PureGear's line of funky retro cases is available for iPhone 5 and the Galaxy S4

After their latest collection of carrying cases for iPhone 5 and the new Samsung Galaxy S4, mobile accessories maker PureGear should really change its name to Pure Fun. Pure Cool or Pure Awesome would work too, since that pretty much describes their new line of retro game-inspired cases, arriving any day now at Pure Mobile.

Probably some of the coolest iPhone accessories or Galaxy S4 cases available, these carrying cases are modeled after old-school games, like the portable, pocket-sized plastic ball mazes most of us remember from childhood.

Puregear Amazing Gamer Case for Samsung Galaxy S4 in Red and Blue

Bright colors and funky design add to the retro effect of models like the Amazing Gamer Case and Groovy Gamer case. And all the models in this latest PureGear collection are available as either iPhone 5 cases or Galaxy S4 cases. It's a perfectly practical and sensible excuse for some 80s and 90s nostalgia.

PureGear Groovy Gamer Case for iPhone 5 in Blue and Green

Aside from protecting your phone from scratches, dirt and everyday wear, PureGear's Retro Gamer cases will transport you back to a simpler time, when the height of pocket gaming consisted of getting a little metal ball to go in the direction you want.

When we first posted about PureGear's Retro Gamer Cases on our Canadian blog back at the beginning of March, we said they were bound to be some of the coolest iPhone accessories of the year. And now that they're also making these cases for Galaxy S4, they're going to be some of the coolest accessories, period. And, now that they're starting to arrive at Pure Mobile, we feel pretty cool by association.

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New iPhone 5S and entry-level iPhone rumored to come in different colors

The biggest story of the week in mobile tech is hands-down the collection of rumors surrounding Apple's upcoming iPhone 5S and cheap, entry-level iPhone. There's no solid proof to support or deny anything yet. But, there's already been talk of possible new colors, a date for unveiling, and even size options, which would of course mean a whole range of fun new gadgets and accessories for iPhone's next incarnations.

The first rumor, that of possible production and unveiling dates comes from a pretty reputable source, the Wall Street Journal (WSJ). They reported recently that Apple is planning to begin production of the new iPhone "in the second quarter of this year," or sometime between now and June.

They also allude to the upcoming iPhone 5S as "similar in size and shape to its current one." So maybe Apple isn't going to make you ditch your iPhone 5 cases just yet, as you had to do with the upgrade from the 4s.

Meanwhile, the WSJ says that Apple is still working with parteners in Asia on making a cheaper version of the iPhone, a 4-inch device that "that could be launched as soon as the second half of this year." They also say that the "cheap" iPhone may be available in different colors.

But people are also speculating that the iPhone 5S, as well as the rumored entry-level iPhone, will be available in different colors. Citing Macotakara, 9to5Mac reported that the iPhone 5S could be launching in up to three additional colors, as well as standard black and white.

And though the report from the WSJ left us hopeful that maybe some of our current iPhone 5 cases could convert as accessories for iPhone 5S, a report from BGR says the iPhone 5S will likely be available in at least two, if not three different screen sizes. So we really can't be sure until Apple decides it's time to let the cat out of the bag.

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Sometimes you can find earth-shattering new technology on Kickstarter, gadgets so revolutionary, they change the way we think about tech. Other times, it's just a case a of a good, simple idea that fills a need. Definitely not a work of genius, the FlipGrip, a new multi-function iPhone carrying case falls into the latter category.

That's not to say that this iPhone accessory isn't a worthwhile Kickstarter project. Sure, there are already plenty of iPhone cases and skins out there. But the FlipGrip does have a simple yet practical twist that'll let you keep a handle on your phone – literally.

Its design centers around a unique, multi-function handle that acts as both a grip and multi-position stand. Why should you need a handle for your phone, you might ask? Well, you may have already found yourself in the same position that led the FlipGrip's creator to make the case in the first place:

"FlipGrip was born out of the necessity to get a better "GRIP" on my smartphone. One day while lying in bed reading the news, the idea hit me!"

And so the FlipGrip was created, a protective plastic iPhone carrying case with a handle that doubles as a stand but which can snap shut to rest flush with the case when it's not in use.

See what we mean about simple and practical ideas being worth their while? And though the current FlipGrip prototype is a model for iPhone 4/4S, models for other iOS devices, like iPhone 5 and iPad carrying cases, are on their way.

On top of that, FlipGrip says theu'll be applying the same concept to cases for "other popular devices from Samsung, Google, Amazon and Microsoft in early 2013."

Sure, the FlipGrip is hardly revolutionary in terms of iPhone accessories. But sometimes it's less important whether you're doing something someone else has done before, as long as you're doing it better.

In our mobile accessory of the week feature, we often review practical and handy accessories that simplify your daily life. But this week, we've left the grown-up world behind to focus instead on a fun new gadget that'll make you feel like a kid again, with a spotlight on Griffin's Moto TC Monster Truck.

It doesn't matter whether you're 5 or 55, this remote controlled truck is pretty hard to resist. And it'll probably be the coolest piece of tech to hit your life since the iPhone, iPad or iPod you use to control it. Just imagine ripping down the office hallway with this thing or tearing up the living room, and you'll get the picture.

Griffin's Moto TC Monster Truck for iPhone, iPad and iPod

Basically, this awesome little gadget works by using your iPhone, iPad or iPod Touch as a remote, via a free app that lets you "wreak havoc," from your touchscreen.

Definitely not the remote-controlled car of your childhood, the controls for this baby are pretty sweet: You can maneuver by touch, using a virtual steering wheel, or by motion, when you tilt your device to steer. Or, slide your fingers across your display to direct the truck.

You can even pre-program routes, like figure-eights and track loops or "record your own trail of destruction and relive the madness."

As for specs, this is one truck that's designed to go anywhere. It's got a high-clearance chassis with knobby tires and four-wheel independent suspension. And you don't have to worry about batteries, since it's powered by an internal rechargeable NiMH battery pack.

Sure, it may not be a total necessity for your responsible, adult life. But this awesome little truck is one of the most fun and coolest accessories for iPhone (or any other device for that matter) that you can find. As its maker Griffin aptly notes: "Anyone can fling birds at pigs. But do you have what it takes to tame the Moto TC Monster?"