I Like It: Mirror Back Protector for the iPhone 4

I have a love/hate relationship with reflective screen protectors. To me, it’s just an intrinsically wacky product category. The problem starts with its fundamental reason for being — to turn the iPhone screen into a mirror. That’s great for applying makeup, scoping out the scene behind the user, or sporting something slick and vaguely futuristic. But forget viewing photos, vids, texts, phone calls, or anything else the smartphone is actually intended to feature. All you can see is yourself reflected in the display.

Poor quality films are even worse. They bubble up, move around or flap out the corners — resulting in air pockets, lint or even creases that further obscure the display. In a problematic product category, however, my favorites have been from Speck and iSkin. I find that they offer decent quality and easy application. But now, I may have a new favorite to add to the top of the list.

I got a press release from Green Onions Supply (the U.S. branch of ROTA America Inc.) about its new product, the Mirror Back Protector for the iPhone 4. This gives me plenty of “happy” for one simple reason: Just as the name suggests, the reflective side goes on the back. And why not? The new iPhone has no curves or other physical impediments that get in the way. It’s just flat, making it the perfect surface for a mirror (which, I may add, is pretty handy for taking self-portraits with the higher-res rear camera).

So simple, so brilliant: The Green Onions Supply Mirror Back Protector for the iPhone 4

Sure, you could buy a full set of reflective films for the front and back, and then use half of it — there are plenty of those around, like the Ideal Case screen protector and others. But why pay for a front piece you’re not using?

This Mirror Back Protector is just the rear reflective sheet, which you can pair with an anti-glare, privacy, or clear front film (sold separately). The backing itself was designed not to block that precious Apple logo, and the company kept the depth super slim, so it can still guard against scratches without getting in the way of the Bumper cases.

Of course, if you still want to see your lovely mug looking back at you from the front of your phone, Green Onions Supply makes a Mirror Film Set, which has a clear back and mirrored front, as well as other screen protectors for various iPhone models.

No pricing or specific availability has been published yet (though it will hit retailers sometime this month). I can’t wait to get my hands on this. If the final cost is reasonable, and it really doesn’t get mucked up with a case on, then this product is going to shoot up to the top of my must-have list.