There are so many accessories available for the iPad now that it’s becoming increasingly difficult for manufacturers to stand out in the crowd and get their product noticed. Oh, and then there’s the small matter of actually getting consumers to hand over money for it.
California-based iPort is one such outfit hoping to grab the attention of iPad users, unveiling a new version of its wireless Charge Case and Stand for the iPad Air and Mini with Retina display at CES on Tuesday.
Its designers appear to have really thought this one through, coming up with a solid-looking yet attractive piece of kit that not only keeps your Apple tablet fully charged but also offers multiple viewing angles for ease of use, and peace-of-mind protection with its durable case.
The case, which is compatible with Apple’s Smart Cover and designed to stay permanently attached to your tablet, contains two charging points – one on the long side and one on the short side – enabling you to charge and use the tablet at the same time in either portrait or landscape mode. The charge case, incidentally, hooks up to the iPad’s lightning connector, with power entering the tablet via the contact points on the case.
Three different mounting angles – for FaceTime, watching movies, and typing, for example – increase its versatility, while magnets inside the stand help align your device and prevent it from sliding about while you’re using it.
All in all it’s a neat little unit; we particularly like the way you can wirelessly charge the iPad in both portrait and landscape orientations, with the three mounting angles sufficient for most uses.
The product has been on the market for other iPad models since November, with Tuesday’s announcement bringing iPad Air and Mini with Retina display compatibility.
The Charge Case and Stand combo begins shipping in February for $119.95 (iPad Air) and $99.95 (new Mini), and will also be available at the Apple Store as well as at iPortProducts.com.
