Tech Talk: Pimp Your Phone

We're all on that recessionista tip these days. If I don't need it, I don't buy it (ok, so I really NEEDED those boots…whatever... back to business!). Anyway, if you're tired of staring at the same ole phone, why not upgrade it! But, on a BUDGET!

Two new gadgets help you pimp your phones without actually having to buy a new one.

First, there's the sleeve that helps you turn your iPhone into something like a Blackberry. The iTwinge sleeve covers the touch screen with a real keypad. Makers of the gadget say it can increase your typing speed by 30-40% but it does make the iPhone a bit bulky. It also plugs into the phone (which we all know doesn't have the world's best battery life). The iTwinge will run ya about 30 bucks.

If you have an actual Blackberry and want to give it a lil makeover, then try changing the faceplate. Hong Kong-based TrueSupplier.com offers full Bberry "housings" if you want to switch things up. Or, you can just change the color of the keyboard or the trackball. Replacing the trackball is really easy and most Bberry users will have to do it at least once (those things get dirty).

Or, you could just suck it up and use the dang phone to make calls and not care what it looks like. But, hey, we like to offer you some options here at the Brew. Consider it a public service.

(iTwinge photo: Mobile Mechatronics)