Logitech today announced the launch of its Solar Keyboard Folio, a folding case for the new iPad and iPad 2 that incorporates a solar-powered Bluetooth keyboard.
Similar to Logitech’s solar keyboards for Mac and PC, the Logitech Solar Keyboard Folio includes onboard solar cells that charge the built-in Bluetooth keyboard in any light, whether indoors or outdoors. When fully charged, the battery lasts for up to two years, even in complete darkness (based on a average use of two hours per day).
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Much like Apple's Smart Cover, the folio also folds to serve as a stand for the iPad, with two positions available: an upright orientation offering full access to the keyboard and a more reclined position that offers access to only the bottom row of the keyboard for media playback controls.
Logitech's Solar Keyboard Folio will carry a retail price of $129.99 and will launch in the United States and Europe later this month.
Top Rated Comments
So close and yet so far, Logitech. I guess you dont want my business :(
I have their desktop version and it works just fine indoors. It's a good keyboard and simply never runs out of power. Ambient light is enough.
Now, if that could charge the iPad once the keyboard's fully charged, it would be really cool. Mind you, as a I sit here with the heating on and the rain coming down (again) in the great British May, I doubt that solar anything is going to be useful.
They need to come up with one that runs on moss for the folks in the UK.----------
My job regularly requires me to type in perpetual darkness for three years.
So close and yet so far, Logitech. I guess you dont want my business :(
So are you still working at the mushroom farm?
This is quite an expensive toy, though the idea is nice.
I think that is a bit overstated. IPad keyboard cases typically MSRP for $99. A $30 premium here for a keyboard that will never die at exactly the wrong moment isn't that outrageous or toy-like. Plus most $99 keyboard cases street for $60-75 so I suspect this will be discounted too after the early adopters dive in.