This week’s iPad-case roundup shows that the Smart Cover has had a profound impact on the way case vendors design their wares. Instead of trying to replace the Smart Cover, a growing number of manufacturers are creating protection that integrates with Apple’s cover, addressing its flaws and enhancing its functionality.
Bracketron: Designed for effortless docking and undocking, the iRoom iDock (iPad and iPad 2; price unavailable) can be mounted on a wall and is available both in landscape and portrait configurations. Its motorized mechanism makes it easy to secure your tablet with the docking mechanism and can even be activated via a proximity sensor. The iDock is available in black or white.
Choiix: The Sleeve 2E (iPad and iPad 2; price unavailable) is a super-thin carrying case that supports the iPad and a number of other tablets, such as the LG Optima or HP TouchPad. The sleeve weighs only 145 grams and makes carrying your gear easy and convenient. A set of magnetic straps keep everything secure, and the polyurethane eco-leather construction gives you style while respecting the environment.
LostDog: The Won’t Let You Down (iPad 2; $30) is a back case with a patent-pending locking system that keeps your Smart Cover securely attached. Despite being made of durable (and recyclable) polycarbonate, the case is only one millimeter thick and weighs in at just 65 grams. It’s available in black or white.
Macally: Like LostDog’s Won’t Let You Down, The SmartMatec (iPad 2; price unavailable) is a polycarbonate back case that protects your tablet while holding a Smart Cover tightly in place. The SmartMatec includes cutouts for all the appropriate ports, buttons, and camera openings, and comes in clear, black, or white.
OtterBox: The Reflex Series Case (iPad 2; $70) offers a lot of features in a single package: Its built-in touchscreen protector doubles as a viewing and typing stand, while the design makes it easy to use Apple’s dock-connector case without compromising the protective capabilities of the case. If that isn’t enough, a unique audio pathway redirects sound from the back of the device towards you for improved audio output.
iPad (1st generation) Family