Protective gear for those on the go

Two different Mac and iOS accessory makers are offering sleeves and cases that not only accompany the iPad, but also a wireless keyboard (either Apple's own Bluetooth model that can work with both the iPad and other devices, or an integrated case-and-keyboard specifically for the iPad). Laptop Tailors, a Netherlands-based all-female Dutch company, offers felt sleeves, while new start-upHatch & Company has released a faux-leather case and keyboard for the iPad 2.

Laptop Tailors is a division of Supernana, a company that uses seamstresses to make children's clothes in all-natural materials in both the Netherlands and Belgium. The division offers 100 percent wool felt sleeves custom fit for the iPhone, 13-inch MacBook and MacBook Pro, iPad and now introduces a sleeve to fit the wireless Bluetooth Apple keyboard.

The cost for the keyboard sleeve is approximately $41.75 (€30), or $27.82 (€20) when ordered with the iPad sleeve (which sells for $41.75). Worldwide shipping is included in the price, and customers can choose from 10 color options (which change seasonally). The company can also make custom-sized sleeves for any other model of mobile device or keyboard at no extra cost.

New start-up Hatch & Company presents its first product, the Skinny, a faux-leather iPad 2 case that integrates what the company calls the world's slimmest and lightest wireless keyboard. The Skinny uses a touch-based silicon wireless keyboard rather than a "chiclet" style keyboard, allowing it to be just seven one-hundredths of an inch thick as well as spill-proof. The keyboard is encased in a stylish leather-style folio case for the iPad 2 that features sensors to wake the iPad when opened and put it to sleep when closed, multimedia and special keys specific to the iPad, and long battery life (up to 68 hours of use) that is easily recharged in about two hours.

Because the keyboard is Bluetooth, it can also be paired with an iPhone or other mobile device rather than being exclusively for the iPad 2. Four small LED lights on the keyboard let the user know when the device is charging or if there is low battery, if the caps lock is engaged and connection status. The case features access to all ports, cameras and buttons, and is available in black with gray accenting or white with brown accenting. It sells for $90 and is available through Amazon.

Laptop Tailors













Hatch & Co.

By Electronista Staff