iPad Cases

Replies to This Discussion

Permalink Reply by Paul Roggendorff on April 26, 2010 at 2:39pm

Dwayne,

I agree with you that the case is an overlooked but a very important part of the whole iPad experience. As has been noted elsewhere (http://www.engadget.com/2010/04/03/entelligence-the-ipad-as-a-produ...), and as my limited experience seems to back up, this tool will most likely replace the laptop for student's day-to-day use, so long as you still have a desktop for syncing.

Assuming this, an adequate carrying case is vital. The key function the carrying case must do is match the startup performance of the iPad. I need to be able to walk into a class, unfold the case, slip out the keyboard in very few movements, and be ready to take notes on an ebook or in pages in under 10 seconds. My must-have check list include: 1) multi-angle holder, 2) wireless keyboard, 3) handle and 4) knick-knack pocket.

The multi-angle holder is nicely executed by the standard issue neoprene holder and by Incase convertible book jacket, both available through the Apple store. This is a great feature for using the built in keyboard in landscape mode, which is great for emails, ok for taking notes, but I would imagine would get in the way for annotating books. I want to keep as much of the screen real estate on the page of the books, rather than take it up with a keyboard.

Which brings up the second point: a wireless keyboard holder. I have not yet come across any of these that incorporates a keyboard. Honestly, I'd prefer a pen (see the Courier in action WITH A PEN http://www.engadget.com/2010/03/30/switched-on-courier-courts-the-c...). Livescribe's next move should be to give their Pulse pens (http://www.livescribe.com/) BlueTooth connectivity to an iPad app (since Apple doesn't have a USB plug). In the meantime, a wireless keyboard is the best accessory out.

Many have handles, so this is easy to find, as are the accessory pockets for cords and earphones. Throw in a shoulder strap and an ACU logo and this case would be the choice carrier across campus.

Permalink Reply by Dwayne Harapnuik on April 26, 2010 at 4:57pm

I personally would like to see the audio/voice input being aggressively developed for the iPad. I have been playing with MacSpeach on my Mac (Dragon Naturally Speaking on the PC) and like this form of input. I have never had great penmanship so personally the Livescribe really isn't a useful tool--I have tried it and didn't really find it effective but paring it with the iPad is sound interesting.

By the way - That Courier video is much older than the March 30th date on the engadget article and the author is assuming that Microsoft is really making the device. From what I have read this isn't really on the horizon.

I can see the need for a high customizable case for the iPad that enables the user to have everything they may need in one place and as something that will contribute to the user experience. I am just wondering if the case designers are really taking this into account. From what I have see so far they are treating the iPad just like any other computer.

Permalink Reply by Matt Dodd on April 26, 2010 at 3:48pm

To carry/protect my iPad, I went over to Office Depot and bought a "Netbook" (mini laptop) carrying case. It's made of neoprene, about 11" X 9", and has an outside pocket to include my Think Outside bluetooth keyboard, pens, pencils, charger, and connection cable. It cost about $21.00 after tax. It works great for me, and fits nicely in my larger briefcase with my laptop and various cables/accessories. Picture attached.

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Permalink Reply by Paul Roggendorff on April 26, 2010 at 5:15pm

Your solution looks brilliant for what is out right now. How would you compare your Think Outside keyboard to the official Mac keyboard? The Mac keyboard is flat, except for the battery cylinder on one edge, which also props the thing at an angle. It looks like the Think Outside can lay flat for storage.

Permalink Reply by Matt Dodd on April 27, 2010 at 11:42am

I have both the Apple Bluetooth keyboard and the iGo Stowaway Bluetooth keyboard. They both work fine with my 15" MacBook Pro (2-3 years old), and the iGo keyboard works with my iPad, although I have not tested the Apple Bluetooth keyboard with the iPad yet. For me smaller is better with keyboards, and I don't think I'll attempt to carry the unfoldable Apple keyboard around with my iPad. The iGo BT keyboard folds up to a size that is slightly larger than the iPhone, so I can conceivably put the keyboard in my pocket if needed. I just wish Apple would add BT keyboard support to the iPhone/iPod Touch.