TL:DR - for the generally careful, mindful user of tech, this may be the minimalist protection you've longed for. If you're not, these aren't the droids you're looking for. Longer: So I've been rocking an 8 Plus for several years, replaced the battery, etc. Finally time for an upgrade to the 16 pro. And over the years I've gotten to know myself. As a phone user, I'm pretty careful. As a past Dir. of Technology, I tend to be gentle on my tech and conscientious about daily care to prolong the lifespan. So putting the requisite screen protector and camera lens protectors on the new phone, I went to a leather case similar to what I've been rocking for about a decade. Hated the bulk. Went to a clear thin case. Hated the bulk. With Applecare+, decided to try this "terminator-style bumper" option. Pros: very minimalist. get to enjoy the titanium of the iPhone. Buttons have nothing between me and the metal. Both the rear and the front screen are protected from tabletops by raised lip. Width in the hand is simply the width of the phone...nothing more. It feels great in the hand - the way God and Tim Cook intended. The fit is VERY snug, and I have no fears of it slipping off. The bumpers provide just enough tactile surface that my fingers feel "something to grab" if that makes sense. Cons: I've not dropped it yet (I seldom do), but I figure I've got Applecare+ if there's a serious mishap. And a screen protector. And camera lens protectors. The bumpers cover the four corners...not the top, bottom, or side edges. I'm skeptical of the protection provided in a major oops. Only time will tell on that. So for me, I wanted a VERY minimalist / bare titanium experience. This option provides it, and it looks nice to boot. We'll see how I feel about it after the first inevitable slip up.
