These cases are new to the iPhone 4. They were not available for earlier models of the iPhone, since the launch of the iPhone 4 including media frenzy gave headlines for the antenna issues rising with the new iPhone 4. Bumper cases were given out to resolve this issue since and then bumper cases have become a new style of cases that you can use to protect the corners and sides of your iPhone in case of an accidental impact. Bumper cases, however, do not cover the rest of your iPhone. The back and front are open so you can use the iPhone but will provide protection on the corners from impact.