14 DAY TRIAL // The Apple iPad makes the news often enough on its own, but it looks like products meant to accompany it are getting some attention of their own as well, such as the Keyboard Folio from Belkin.
Apple definitely sealed the deal on the tablet market and its existence as more than a niche market when it released the iPad and prompted notebook and smartphone makers to develop their own products of similar type.
Since then, the second generation of the device has already arrived, along with many devices and other products meant to complement or supplement it.
One of these products is a case from Belkin, case that includes a small physical keyboard inside, so that typing may be done more comfortably and quickly.
“With the explosion of the tablet market and more people using tablets as a laptop stand-in, people really need accessories that provide enhanced functionality and portability while on the go,” said Elgie.
“Thanks to its ultra-thin design, the Belkin Keyboard Folio enables a comfortable, computer-style typing experience wherever and whenever you need it.”
Dubbed F5L090, the Keyboard Folio has Belkin TruType keys, for comfort and a feel similar to that of PC keyboards.
Also, it uses a tri-fold design (protects the screen by tucking the keyboard away), Bluetooth connectivity, micro USB for recharging the battery (life is of 60 hours) and a rigid backplate, for stand stability, among other things. Sales should already be underway, for the price of $99.99.
“People are pretty outspoken in their dislike for flimsy rubber keyboards and the need for a solution that acts and feels more like a true laptop keyboard,” said Jamie Elgie, senior director of product management for Belkin’s mobility division.
“We took these complaints to heart and created a keyboard that people not only want to use, but also outperforms other products in terms of typing speed and errors.”