I don’t think I have to go into a long-winded explanation of why the iPad’s keyboard dock is probably the first and most important accessory any new iPad owner will want to acquire. And it’s more than just a simple input device, this modified version of Apple’s newest aluminum keyboard doubles as a charger for the iPad and can also be used to synch it with your Mac or PC – a couple of nice “extras” that make it more than just another keyboard. This keyboard also includes function keys to control media playback, adjust the brightness of the iPad display, quick activation of the search and home screens as well as a few other shortcut keys. It is a full-size keyboard and being from Apple I must say it is quite comfortable and easy to get accustomed with.
The iPad itself does offer a near full-size touch screen keyboard however for users performing more keyboard-intensive work on their iPad like serious emailing, blogging or any other type of word processing – you’re going to want a “rea” keyboard as this will make your life much easier by increasing your typing speed considerably as the touch screen keyboard is simply not designed for heavy-duty word processing.
Aside from Apple’s own keyboard dock, there is support for Bluetooth 2.1 compliant wireless keyboards devices, so expect many manufacturers to jump on this opportunity to produce their own iPad keyboard. Whether it be for Apple’s keyboard dock or a third party manufacturer, there is sure to be great demand as one of the biggest complaints from iPhone users has been over the lack of a full sized keyboard attachment, Apple have certainly solved that problem this time around with the iPad keyboard dock.
How Much?
The list price for the iPad keyboard dock is $69 and I think this is certainly reasonable considering the convenience and comfort this accessory will provide in certain circumstances. Bottom line is that if you’re doing any amount of typing on your iPad, you’re gonna wanna want to have one of these things – we’re expecting this to be one of the most popular iPad accessories, it serves a basic yet important function and the added features are certainly handy and were well thought out – good job Apple!
Is keyboard dock included with iPad package or separate?
Parrot Toys
The ipad keyboard dock is sold as a separate accessory – it retails for around $70.
Jason
Can’t wait for the release of the ipad, I think this could really change the netbook/PDA space the same way Apple changed the cellphone and personal music player markets with iPhone and iPod.
Littermaid
I’ve been a fan of Apple for sometime, they produce products that is aesthetically beautiful while working like a champ. Alot of companies aren’t like that, it’s usually one or the other. Tech businesses don’t usually take aesthetics seriously like Apple. With that said I’ve got to say that I’m anxious about the new Tablet. One thing I question though, is it too soon? I’m afraid that this may be ahead of our time. What do you think?