Matias keyboard gets smartphone stand, iPhone app
updated 03:30 pm EST, Thu February 25, 2010
Matias Smartphone Stand KB uses iPhone for F keys
Matias has expanded its classic-style keyboards with a new model designed for a symbiotic relationship with an iPhone or other smartphone. At a minimum, the USB 2.0 Keyboard + Smartphone Stand has a surface specifically intended to cradle most commonly-sized smartphones and similar media players. iPhone and iPod touch owners get special treatment, however, as keypad and trackpad apps let them either fill in for the missing F- and page keys or else steer the mouse pointer.
Like earlier keyboards from the Canadian company, the new model has a full-speed USB 2.0 port on top to quickly dock flash drives, iPods and other hardware and has a separate two-port hub on the back to attach a mouse or other peripherals. The primarily Mac-oriented, quiet keyboard is available now and sells for $50 US.
