I still cannot start a new thread when in the wap site forums, and does anyone know if the 8700 knows it is in a holster if using one other than the oem? How does it know when holstered and when not?

You can't start a thread in the wap forums...only reply.

The 8700 knows it is holstered because there is a magnet built into the hoster. No magnet=No way of knowing

HTH
Ventmore

So if I want to use a different holster, as long as it has a magnet, like for the flip tops maybe, will it still function the same?

If, and only if, the magnet is in the right place. Be very careful with OEM holsters and cases.