TwelveSouth today introduced the new SurfacePad for iPad mini, an compact leather case that's able to double as a viewing stand and a desktop typing wedge.
The case, which is billed as a simple leather wrap, uses an adhesive backing to hold the iPad mini in place, cutting down on bulk and allowing it to function without an enclosing framework.
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With hidden magnets build into the inside of the cover, it can be propped into two separate positions for viewing and typing, and as with most iPad cases, the SurfacePad offers sleep/wake functionality.
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Slide iPad up along the inside cover and hidden magnets magically reach out to grab the edge of iPad. This cool trick replaces the need for extra sewn-in stops or notches. If the angle's not quite right, slide iPad a little further and a second row of magnets will grab and hold iPad at a second viewing angle.
Another clever feature built into SurfacePad for iPad mini is a small kickstand that turns this sleek cover into a typing wedge and desktop display. Flip down the kickstand, and – as with the hands-free viewing stand – a hidden row of magnets grabs the edge of your iPad.
The new iPad mini SurfacePad follows similar products designed for the iPhone and the Mac and TwelveSouth has plans to release a SurfacePad for the iPad Air as well.
SurfacePad for iPad mini is available in Pop Red, Mod White, and Jet Black. It can be purchased from the TwelveSouth website for $69.99.
Top Rated Comments
They are very, very cheaply made despite how attractive their marketing is.
nope.
OMG Larry - if only it were that easy. Theres the BOM, then Landed Cost, then Inbound Shipping, Outbound Shipping, and Wholesale Cost... Then of course Overhead, Warehousing, Development (fun fact - these were ready to go months ago, then Apple added a little mic to the back do over). What I can say is, we try very hard to ensure we deliver $69.99 of value to our customers who purchase this cover. We're def. not the cheapest, but we try to make the best stuff we can. Good question though. Hope this insight helps.
The adhesive is a non-issue, I assure you. It leaves zero residue, sticks firmly, can be easily removed and reapplied at least a few times...
But it won't matter because the rest of it will peel apart after a few weeks of normal use.
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:confused: Right let's uglify and compromise the device with a kickstand! instead of encouraging the 3rd party case market and letting people choose how they want to stand it up. Gotcha. :apple: