JOBY SeaPal Waterproof Case for Mobile Phones Introduced

Smartphone Filmmaking

by Alexandra ThompsonJanuary 22^nd, 2024

In today’s world, mobile phones are our loyal companions, enduring everything from our cheesy sunset captures to recording spontaneous dance videos. So, of course, nothing draws our attention quite as much as a new accessory for our little tech buddy that can push it to do even more. Enter the JOBY SeaPal, a waterproof phone case that lets you take your phone on an underwater adventure. As the SeaPal Waterproof Case steps into quite a diverse field of underwater mobile phone case offerings, let’s have a look and see where this one can take us.

Originally based in the San Francisco Bay area, JOBY, acquired by Videndum in 2017, has collaborated with AQUATECH, specialists in diving and scuba gear, to create the SeaPal for shooting all things underwater.

Providing you stay above 10m/33ft, the case should protect your mobile phone whether you’re in the ocean, your swimming pool, or just looking to shield your phone from the elements during activities like fishing, boating, or any other situation where water damage is a concern.

The SeaPal supports 3 lenses – ultra-wide, wide, and telephoto. Note that with some phone models, ultra-wide might produce a vignette – simply zoom in slightly to remove it. Shouldn’t be a problem since you have full access to your touchscreen, which SeaPal claims is more flexible and touch-sensitive than similar phone cases on the market.

As stated above, the depth is rated at 10m/33ft with the glass lens port, which is scratch-resistant, and if you have an iPhone, you will have full access to the Macro and Cinematic Mode via the touchscreen.

The case has a dual-lock closure for extra protection, and a glove-friendly grip so you can work with your diving gloves on. Two ¼”-20 accessory ports support the optional Beamo lights.

Accessories

Accessories include a Bluetooth Shutter Grip, which allows you to take a photo with one hand. The SeaPal 6” Dome port lets you take images both above and below the phone. Also optional is a protective cover for the Dome, the SeaPal Sports Leash, the Beamo Mini light, the Beamo light, the GorillaPod® Arm Kit, and the SeaPal GoMount.

Finally, you can light everything up by connecting the optional Beamo LED light with the GorillaPod® arms to your case (the Beamo is waterproof up to a depth of 30 feet). Interesting to note that the founder of JOBY, Joe Ben Bevirt, actually invented the GorillaPod as he was frustrated when looking for a tripod that he could use on all terrains and in any environment.

Alternatives

One of the main things I’ve noted is that many mobile phone waterproof case alternatives simply have a deeper dive rate. Your choice will likely depend on whether you are a diver, whether you spend your time in the ocean snorkeling, or whether you just want to take some shots or a video of your kids in the pool. In other words, the one you choose will depend on how you plan on using it.

For deeper dives, there is the Divefolk SeaTouch 4 MAX Underwater Housing, which goes to a depth of 60m/196.8ft, but of course, it gets more expensive once you start with the add-ons – however, if you’re really into diving, there are some great kits and accessories. The SeaLife SportDiver Underwater Housing for Smartphones has a depth rating of 39.6m/130ft and operates via Bluetooth and an app. There is no handle included. The ProShot Dive Universal iPhone Case is the less expensive alternative (for iPhones only), and it will take you down to 40m/131ft. However, you control the camera using the volume buttons and a camera app (it is NOT touchscreen compatible). As I said, there are multiple choices and accessory options, and it depends on your needs.

Specs at a glance

• Compatible with the iPhone 15, 14, 13 (excluding the 13 Mini), and 12 and Galaxy S23 and S22 mobile phones
• Material / Composition: Fiberglass-reinforced polycarbonate, Glass, Stainless Steel, TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane)
• Dimensions: 9.5 x 5.3 x 2.5in / 24.1 x 13.5 x 6.3cm
• Weight: 570g/20.1oz
• Depth Rating: 10.06m/33ft

Price and availability

The JOBY SeaPal Waterproof Case is available now for $239.95. All accessories for the SeaPal can be purchased directly on the JOBY website.

What do you think about this new waterproof casing? Do you think you could have some fun with it? Are you a diver, and if so, what casing do you use? Let us know in the comments!