Abstract: A ferromagnetic accessory for a handheld device is disclosed. Embodiments include a housing having a first side and a second side, the first side adapted to be coupled to and cover at least a portion of a handheld device, and a ferromagnetic layer coupled to the housing and forming a planar pattern of alternating areas defined by ferromagnetic material and nonferromagnetic material. In at least one embodiment, the ferromagnetic material comprises elongate members and the ferromagnetic layer comprises a plurality of spaced-apart elongate members defining nonferromagnetic material areas therebetween. In other embodiments, the ferromagnetic layer is embedded within the housing. In other embodiments, the ferromagnetic accessory is a contiguous layer, a composite of an elastomer and ferromagnetic material and can be coupled directly to a handheld device or to the outside of a housing.

Abstract: A bistable spring stand and housing for a handheld device which can be reliably mounted in environments where users commonly mount handheld devices is disclosed. Embodiments include a housing and a bistable spring stand coupled to the housing. The bistable spring stand is moveable between a first position and a second position. In the first position, the bistable spring stand is substantially flat between its first and second ends and in the second position the bistable spring stand defines a longitudinal curve outward from the housing between its first and second ends. At least one embodiment includes a plurality of raised members forming a perimeter around the bistable spring stand, the raised members defining a planar support surface to provide a stable resting surface for the housing and handheld device when the bistable spring stand is in the first position.