
Guide
My Google Pixel 10 slips, I curse - and a piece of tape saves the day
by Luca Fontana
Magnets and a fold-out stand: my favourite smartphone case has two features that I would never want to be without. I was disappointed at first.
I'm a case person. Ever since a smartphone slipped out of my hand on the first day of testing years ago, well before the official market launch (sorry, Samsung!), the first thing I do with new devices is put them in a case.
Not only because the mobile phones are better protected, but also because a good case has a better grip than the glass back of the smartphone. But only a well-made case - as our colleague Luca experienced with his new Google Pixel 10.
At the beginning of the year, I was looking for a case for my Google Pixel 9 that would fulfil a special requirement. It had to be magnetic, as I like to use Magsafe chargers to which the smartphone is attached with magnets. By chance, I came across the Torras Upro Ostand Spin, which is available for many smartphone models from Apple, Samsung and Google. You can find an overview here.
However, I was a little disappointed at first when I unpacked it. The case for around 35 francs or euros is clunky, doesn't feel particularly high-quality - and turns my already black Google Pixel 9 into a dark grey mouse. Beautiful is different.
Nonetheless, more than nine months later, I wouldn't want to be without the cover. And there's one main reason for that.
Primarily I was only looking for a magnetic case, the second feature is just a nice extra - or so I thought at first. The magnetic ring can be folded out and used as a stand. I can place the smartphone in portrait or landscape format, and the angle can be adjusted as required.
I now use the feature almost every day. It's handy for watching videos - and also when I want to keep an eye on the device. I often film or take photos of myself. The Torras Upro Ostand Spin serves as an amazingly stable tripod that I always have with me and can adjust for all viewing angles. This is particularly practical when I'm holding something in my hands for the shot - a gadget, for example.
I totally underestimated another side effect: I can open the ring and use it as a holder when I have the phone in my hand. Simply loop one or two fingers through it - then the mobile is guaranteed not to fall out of my hand, no matter what I'm doing.
Of course, the case also fulfils my actual requirement, namely that the Google Pixel can be attached to magnetic chargers or holders. This works with Magsafe products as well as with Qi2 accessories. Qi2 is based on Apple's Magsafe, so the magnets are in exactly the same place.
The smartphone holds perfectly on magnetic chargers or other accessories such as car mounts with the case.
I am pleased that the Torras Upro Ostand Spin is non-slip in itself. Even without the ring folded out, the cover sits comfortably in the hand. The somewhat coarse, not quite as high-quality material is actually an advantage here.
Luckily, I don't know how well the case protects against drops. It seems robust, but doesn't have any special certification like outdoor models, for example.
Two weeks ago, I treated myself to an upgrade - unfortunately not for the case. Because the Torras Upro Ostand Spin is not yet available for the new Pixel 10 Pro. Perhaps also because Google now builds magnets directly into the smartphone and into its own cases, making a third-party manufacturer's offer unnecessary.
I don't want to miss out on the fold-out stand and have therefore ordered the expensive Pixel Snap Ring.
Nevertheless, I will order a Torras Upro Ostand Spin again if it comes onto the market for the Pixel 10 Pro. Because the fancy Google ring has one big disadvantage: it blocks the magnetic docking point and always has to be removed first before I can charge wirelessly.
What is your favourite case and why? Write it in the comments!
Gadgets are my passion - whether you need them for the home office, for the household, for sport and pleasure or for the smart home. Or, of course, for the big hobby next to the family, namely fishing.
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