Kensington's KeyFolio Adds Keyboard to iPad
By Ed Oswald | Friday, September 17, 2010 at 11:07 am
Accessory maker Kensington has debuted the KeyFolio, essentially an iPad case with an integrated Bluetooth keyboard. The $99 accessory is slated to debut by the end of the October, the company told me.
The KeyFolio offers some handy features, such as iPad-specific keys to access functions (such as home, etc.) and a stand that allows you to use your device much like a laptop. The battery within the keyboard itself must be charged; Kensington says it would last through about 90 hours of use before needing another charge.
It’s not too heavy–it only adds another pound or so to the overall weight. The keyboard is a tad small, think of it as close to netbook size- a bit larger maybe, but still comfortable to type on.
If you’re worried about the keys scratching the screen itself, don’t. This is because the keyboard itself is rubberized — a good feature too just in case you spill that cup of coffee on it early in the morning.
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September 17th, 2010 at 12:48 pm
That looks suspiciously like my old Vadem Clio. I think Apple should just steal the industrial design of the Clio for an iOS-based notebook…
September 17th, 2010 at 12:50 pm
Why not just use a Macbook/netbook/laptop. They are trying to take advantage of the touch screen, minimalistic interface and form factor away and recreate it as a laptop. I don't want to carry this thing around. If you want an iPad case, make it functional (protects the iPad) yet minimal so you still have the advantage of carrying around a lightweight tablet. Crazy.
September 17th, 2010 at 6:54 pm
This is close to half the price and weight of a MacBook. The same argument for getting an iMac instead of a Mac Pro. iPad works with keyboards. If you need a keyboard, that is not a reason to get a Mac. Requiring a keyboard some of the time doesn't get rid of the many benefits of iOS over Mac OS or Windows for some tasks or some users.
September 17th, 2010 at 12:59 pm
It's not for everybody. But some people may want from time to time to use the iPad in a notebook like manner. Kensington is also going to sell a version without the keyboard for $39.99, they said.
September 17th, 2010 at 5:24 pm
Good to know. I have spilled coffee and other liquids on my computer keyboards. What are your thoughts overall on the iPad, Harry? Especially interested to hear your review on using its WiFi or 3G. Was thinking about getting one since my work laptop is so awful and bulky to use remotely, like at conferences and such.
September 18th, 2010 at 9:08 pm
Umm… The story was written by Ed Oswald. LOL.
September 18th, 2010 at 9:34 am
Bet when computers finally go voice only I/O someone is still going to want a keyboard. Bet they will still use chisel on stone to print out a hard copy.