Apple probably did not invent the word oleophobic, but they certainly popularized it.  While the word technically means lacking an affinity for oils (oil repellant), Apple has given a whole new life to this somewhat obscure concept.  They both expanded and narrowed the definition of oleophobic when they initially announced the concept for the screens on their then upcoming iPhone 3GS.  According to Apple, their screens (including the iPad) now contain an oleophobic coating, which is fingerprint resistant.  Yup,  thanks to Apple, oleophobic now means fingerprint resistant, but whatever, that is fine.  No matter what you call it, the idea behind the new screen coating is that it will not attract fingerprints the way most mobile screens tend to.

I was pretty excited about this oleophobic coating when I first read about, and even more excited when I had a chance to test it out on the iPad.  Sadly, my excitement did not last long.  It seems that my iPad is oleophobic-phobic.  It is pretty much the opposite of fingerprint resistant.  The screen practically reaches out and grabs my fingerprints right off of the tips of my fingers.  That sure was a disappointment.

Fortunately, there is a cure for Oleophobia-phobia.  A cure which is provided by Invisible Shield from Zagg.com.  We have covered Invisible Shield ad nauseum here at JAMM, probably since they are the greatest thing to happen to mobile devices…since mobile devices. 

Sure, the Invisible Shield can be a bit tricky to apply, but with a little patience (or a very patient wife), you can add virtually unprecedented protection to your iPad.  Not only will it protect the screen from nicks, dings, scratches, and that sort of thing with its military grade protection, with Zagg’s own self healing properties; but the best part is that it brings true oleophobia to your device.  Invisible Shield protectors simply do not trap fingerprints. 

All of this protection, and it remains thin enough not to interfere with any other cases you may be using on your device.  Literally making it an invisible shield on your iPad.  Truly an essential feature for your device. 

The Invisible Shield is available from Zagg.com.  It costs $29.99 for front coverage only (which is what I used) or $39.99 for full coverage.