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Kensington KeyFolio Thin X3 keyboard: TUAW Video Review
It's great to see some multitasking accessories starting to come out for iPad Air. Today's TUAW Video Review takes a look at Kensington's new KeyFolio Thin X3 keyboard folio for the iPad Air, which not only acts as a protective folio case and stand with a keyboard, but can also provide a charge to your iPhone. Specifications and Features PowerLift™ internal keyboard battery can be used to charge your phone Ultra-thin, form-fitting cradle maintains tablet's sleek profile with enhanced drop protection Integrated Bluetooth® keyboard with 6 rows of high-performance scissor keys QuickFold™ design hides keyboard to enable streamlined viewing mode KeySense™ Power Channel automatically turns the keyboard on and off Automatic tablet wake and sleep modes when cover opens or closes Magnetic closure for a safe and secure fit Weight: 15.5 ounces (439.4 grams) Thickness: .75 inches (1.9 cm) . Conclusion Between the extensive protection the case provides, the nice keyboard, the external battery pack capability, and a number of other features highlighted in the video, I found the Kensington KeyFolio Thin X3 keyboard to be an excellent choice for protection and versatility. My only complaint is that the "Thin" is a bit chunky and heavy compared to other keyboard cases on the market. Rating: 3-1/2 stars out of 4 stars possible
Kensington Portafolio Me: Customizable iPad mini protection
We've seen plenty of customizable cases for iPhones; everything from cases with a clear rear window for photos to our favorite LEGO case, but the Portafolio Me from Kensington (US$39.99) is the first iPad mini case we're aware of that can be customized with a photo or decal to make it specifically yours. Specifications Dimensions: 5.5 inches wide x 8.25 inches high x 0.75 inches thick (139.7 x 209.6 x 19.05 mm) Weight: 5.4 ounces (153.1 grams) Colors: Smoke / Red Design Highlights As an iPad mini folio case, the Portafolio Me is a bit of a one-trick pony: it has that space in the back (the "removable personal panel") that allows you to pop in a photo, artwork or decal to customize the look of the case. Other than that, it provides a measure of protection for your investment, can be used as a stand, and also has the wake/sleep capability that most iPad covers provide. The description on Kensington's website notes that the Portafolio Me can be customized with a free Skinit decal "to make it your own", yet doesn't provide any information on how to acquire the decal. The marketing materials on the Kensington site show a sticker on the box case, so I'm assuming that Portafolio cases purchased in retail outlets will have that info. One other design feature is the Soundwave channels that port audio from the downward-facing speakers on the iPad mini to the front of the device to improve audio. The inside of the cover is lined with a microfiber-type material to help keep your mini's screen free from smudges. There are no other design features that really stand out on the Portafolio Me and make me want to recommend this over any other iPad mini cover or case; it's quite a plain-Jane design with no outstanding features. Functionality Highlights The Portafolio Me is a perfectly serviceable iPad mini case. At $39.99, the Kensington case is $30 less expensive than Apple's own iPad mini Smart Case about about $10 less than the Logitech Folio Protective Case for the mini. What I found with photos was that it was best to use 5 x 7 inch images, then use the plastic insert as a template to trim around the edge of the photos to get it sized just right for the "window" on the case. You'll probably want to have those images printed on photo paper rather than just on traditional printer paper. Of course, should you decide to have one of the budding artists in your home create a masterpiece to grace the back of your Portafolio Me, you might want to consider using the plastic insert as a template for the kiddos to draw within the lines of. I honestly didn't feel that the Soundwave channels helped the sound quality all that much -- in fact, at the highest volume on my iPad mini, the case actually resonated at certain frequencies and made an annoying buzz. If I had one major functionality concern, it is that the entire case feels somewhat floppy and flimsy. After reviewing hundreds of iPad cases, I expect a certain rigidity to a protective case that is just plain missing from the Portafolio Me. Conclusion The Portafolio Me has a somewhat unique clear plastic window on the back for displaying pictures or decals and is also bargain-priced, offering a small level of protection for your iPad mini in transit. Other than those two attributes, though, this Kensington case does not have a lot to recommend it over other more sturdy cases. Rating: 2 stars out of 4 stars possible
Kensington Proximo Fob Phone and Key Finder
Last week I reviewed the nio Tag, a small, clip-on Bluetooth 4.0 tag that works in tandem with an iPhone app to keep you from losing whatever is tagged or the iPhone itself. Whenever the two devices are more than a certain distance away from each other, an alarm sounds to warn you that you're about to lose something. Well, there are a few manufacturers making similar tags, and the latest is the US$39.99 Proximo Fob Phone and Key Finder from accessory vendor Kensington. Read on to see how it compares with the nio Tag. To start with, the Proximo is designed as a key fob. It has a metal loop on one end that slides onto any keyring. The device itself is a black plastic, flattened-pill shape with a button on one side, covered with an attractive pattern. After removing the Proximo from the box, you use a tiny, included magnetic screwdriver to open the back and drop in a provided CR2032 battery that will last for about six months. Replace the screw and you're ready to roll. Next, you download the free Proximo app from the App Store. Note that the device requires Bluetooth 4.0, so it works only with the iPhone 4s and iPhone 5 series. I have to admit that I was impressed by the Proximo app -- it's easy to navigate and includes full and understandable video tutorials. There's a way to change the melody played by the Proximo, as well as the alarm sound that plays on the iPhone when you walk away from your keys or other valuables. Should you drop your keys somewhere, a helpful "Last Seen" feature displays a map showing the last place you were when the fob and app were in contact. The Proximo fob weighs just 0.4 ounce (11.3 grams), so it's not going to weigh you down very much, and it will certainly keep you from losing either your keys or your phone. Kensington has done a very good job of making the Proximo system easy to use, and sells the fobs and a less-expensive Proximo tag ($24.99) to place on backpacks, bags or anything else you'd rather have close at hand all the time. Conclusion Kensington brings a wealth of accessory-manufacturing experience to the Proximo Fob Phone and Key Finder, a compact, inexpensive and easy-to-use Bluetooth system to make sure that you don't lose your iPhone or your keys. With additional Proximo fobs or tags, it's simple for iPhone users to keep tabs on all of their valuables. Pros Excellent app with video tutorials, easy to add other fobs or tags to the app for tracking Loud, but not totally obnoxious alarms Device is designed to be connected to a keyring Inexpensive compared to the $70 nio Tag $0.99 in-app purchase for a custom alarm melody composer Battery is easily replaced and long-lasting, level is tracked from app Cons None Who is it for? Anyone with a tendency to misplace keys or iPhones
Kensington KeyFolio Pro keyboard folio for iPad Air
Another keyboard folio has just appeared for the iPad Air, this time from longtime accessory manufacturer Kensington. The KeyFolio Pro keyboard folio for iPad Air (US$99.99) is perfect for the person who wants both protection and a keyboard for the iPad Air, as well as a budget price. We'll take a quick look in this review, and then a reader has the opportunity to win a KeyFolio Pro for iPad Air from TUAW and Kensington. Design My first reaction after picking up the box that the KeyFolio Pro is in was "wow, this thing is heavy." That's because Kensington has a bunch of different iPad Air keyboard folios in the mix -- there's the KeyCover Hard Shell and Hard Case Keyboards for iPad Air at the low end ($79.99 each), the KeyCover Hard Case Keyboard, the KeyFolio Executive Zipper Folio, and KeyFolio Pro at $99.99 each, the KeyFolio Executive Plus Zipper Folio and KeyFolio Pro Plus at $119.99 each, the KeyFolio Exact Thin at $129.99, and the KeyFolio Exact-Plus Thin at $149.99. Why the company has decided to inundate the market with nine different keyboard folios is totally confusing, and I think consumers will find it confusing as well. I'd rather see an entry level and "executive level" keyboard folio, not a perplexing range of subtly differentiated products. Well, enough of my griping about Kensington's propensity to flood the market -- let's look at the KeyFolio Pro. It's a rather nondescript black faux leather folio with a removable Bluetooth keyboard that's held into place with some strong magnets. The 1 lb., 4.5 oz. (581 grams) KeyFolio Pro is much heavier than Belkin's Ultimate Keyboard for iPad Air, which weights in at 14.6 oz. (413 grams) and even more weighty than Belkin's Slim Style Keyboard for iPad Air which resembles the KeyFolio Pro but is 3.5 oz. (99 grams) lighter. There's a magnetic closure that is supposed to keep the folio closed; in reality, the magnet is quite weak and flopped open easily. There are also a series of magnets that work with the iPad Air side of the folio to let it adjust to a number of varying angles, particularly when the keyboard is removed. The iPad Air is held in place by a slim bezel of the same faux leather, with cutouts for buttons, speakers, and ports. Functionality There are two things that recommend the Kensington KeyFolio Pro for iPad Air -- the keyboard itself and the adjustability of the display angle. The keyboard is, unlike the Belkin keyboards, a completely standard keyboard layout. That means that you can type quickly without fear of hitting the wrong keys, which was a constant battle with the Belkin layout. There's a top row of iPad "function" keys above the number keys, quite useful for controlling music playback, Siri, or bringing up the virtual keyboard on the screen. For charging, the KeyFolio Pro uses an included USB to micro-USB cable. For initial pairing of the device, Kensington uses the "old" method of pressing a pairing button, then having you type in a code displayed on the iPad Air screen onto the keyboard. This seems to indicate that the KeyFolio Pro is using an older version of Bluetooth and not the Bluetooth 4 LE standard used on many new keyboards. With those keyboards, pairing is much easier to accomplish. The feel of the keyboard is quite nice, and it's possible to really speed type on this thing without fingers going to misplaced keys. I also liked the ability to remove the keyboard from the folio and place it elsewhere on a table with the iPad Air further away. There is apparently a backlit version of this keyboard folio (yet another SKU?), so if you need to type in the dark you may wish to search for that version. As an incentive, Kensington is also offering 65 GB of Google Drive storage for one year when you purchase the KeyFolio Pro for iPad Air. Conclusion Kensington's KeyFolio Pro for iPad Air is the first of the confusingly large array of keyboard folios that the company has shipped. It's a rather plain-Jane keyboard folio, although the keyboard has a great feel and a standard layout that make typing a breeze. Pros Excellent removable keyboard with a standard layout Magnets allow the iPad Air to be adjusted to a range of viewing angles Relatively inexpensive at $100 Built-in stylus loop (stylus not included, only thin styluses will fit) Cons Heavier than competing keyboard folios Rather plain looking Magnetic closure doesn't work all that well Who is it for? Anyone who wants a keyboard folio that does one thing very well -- providing a fast and well-designed keyboard for an iPad Air Giveaway Have an iPad Air? Need a keyboard folio for it? We've got one for you, thanks to Kensington. Here are the rules for the giveaway: Open to legal US residents of the 50 United States, the District of Columbia and Canada (excluding Quebec) who are 18 and older. To enter, fill out the form below completely and click or tap the Submit button. The entry must be made before November 16, 2013 11:59PM Eastern Standard Time. You may enter only once. One winner will be selected and will receive a Kensington KeyFolio Pro for iPad Air valued at $99.99 Click Here for complete Official Rules. Loading...
Hands-on with the Kensington USB 3.0 Docking Station with Dual DVI/HDMI/VGA Video (Giveaway!)
The popularity of Apple's MacBook Pro and Air laptops is one of the reasons that Mac sales have increased while PC sales are waning. But if there's one thing that the laptop experience is lacking, it's a plethora of USB 3.0 and video ports. Kensington's USB 3.0 Docking Station with DVI/HDMI/VGA Video (Model sd3500v, US$199.99) has been around for a while to help out PC laptop users; the recent availability for OS X drivers for the DisplayLink hardware inside the unit now gives MacBook owners a piece of the action. Design The Docking Station is a slim vertical black tower that's unobtrusive on any desktop. On the front of the unit are a pair of SuperSpeed USB 3.0 ports as well as connectors for a pair of headphones and a microphone (or headset). Like many a good bar, all the action is in the back -- there are four USB 3.0 2.0 ports, a gigabit Ethernet adapter, a DVI port that can be used for VGA or HDMI output with included adapters, and a separate HDMI port. All of this port activity requires some power, so there's also a 5V AC adapter included that plugs into the back of the unit. The unit has a good, solid feel. Since it's made by Kensington, there's a standard Kensington lock port on one side as well so the dock won't "walk away" from your desk over a weekend. Functionality The best way to test a multi-port docking station of this type is to hook it up and play with it. Prior to connecting, Mac users will need to download and install the free DisplayLink USB 3.0 for Mac OS X driver. Plugging the docking station into power turns on a blue indicator light on the front of the tower, while connecting a USB 3.0 cable from your MacBook to the dock illuminates a small green USB indicator light. From this point on, you can start plugging in your choice of devices. I tested the docking station with a VGA connection to an external monitor, and was able to drive that monitor at 1920 x 1080 while my MacBook Pro happily supported its own Retina display. For even more fun, I plugged in an old VGA monitor while driving the external monitor via HDMI. The three displays (built-in, HDMI, VGA) all worked properly, although resolution on the old, cheap VGA monitor was a bit off -- that's more of an issue of the monitor and not the docking station. I plugged in a variety of USB 3.0 and 2.0 devices -- hard drives, flash drives, even a printer -- and all worked like a champ with the docking station. If you need one less video port (for instance, you may already have a mini-DisplayPort to HDMI or VGA adapter that you want to use), Kensington also sells a model (sd3000v) that has a single DVI port and adapters for VGA or HDMI priced at $169.99. Conclusion For MacBook Pro or Air owners looking for a way to easily connect an array of monitors and USB devices to their laptops with a single plugin, the Kensington USB 3.0 Docking Station with Dual DVI/HDMI/VGA Video is a compact and high-functioning peripheral. Pros Compact vertical design takes up very little desktop space Two SuperSpeed USB 3.0 and four "regular" USB 3.0/2.0 ports provide a lot of expansion capability Theoretically, using the two ports on this device as well as the two Thunderbolt ports and HDMI-out on the MacBook Pro, you can drive up to five external monitors (note, this was not tested...) Cons None to speak of Who is it for? Owners of USB 3.0-equipped MacBook Pro or MacBook Air notebooks who want a fast way to connect multiple monitors and devices Giveaway Our review unit is up for grabs for one lucky TUAW reader. Here are the rules for the giveaway: Open to legal US residents of the 50 United States, the District of Columbia and Canada (excluding Quebec) who are 18 and older. To enter, fill out the form below completely and click or tap the Submit button. The entry must be made before May 28, 2013 11:59PM Eastern Daylight Time. You may enter only once. One winner will be selected and will receive a Kensington USB 3.0 Docking Station with Dual DVI/HDMI/VGA Video valued at US$199.99 Click Here for complete Official Rules. Loading...
Kensington USB 3.0 Multi-Display Adapter adds video options to your Mac (giveaway!)
Have a need to attach more monitors to your USB 3.0-equipped Mac, but don't want to use a Thunderbolt, Mini DisplayPort, or HDMI port? Kensington may have just the thing for you -- the Universal Multi-Display Adapter (US$79.99 MSRP), AKA the USB 3.0 Multi-Display Adapter. We previewed this device last month, and now we've had some hands-on time. Previously this device was available only for PCs, but new drivers available from DisplayLink make the adapter compatible with any Mac running OS X Snow Leopard, Lion, or Mountain Lion. Essentially what the adapter does is makes one of your USB 3.0 ports available to drive a monitor or projector. It's a small (2" x 3.5" x .68") black box with a SuperSpeed USB 3.0 input on one end and a female DVI connector on the other end. That cabling arrangement is a little unfortunate. Many monitors are also equipped with a female DVI connector, so chances are you'll need to buy another adapter. LIkewise, the included DVI to VGA adapter is relatively useless -- although it plugs right into the Multi-Display Adapter, it has a female connector on the open end, once again requiring a male to male adapter cable to connect to many VGA ports. Since the Mac software is relatively new, you need to download and install it prior to running the device. It takes up only about 16 MB of storage, and requires a reboot. After installing the software, I was able to find a male-to-male VGA cable, so I plugged one end into the 17-inch ViewSonic monitor I use with my MacBook Pro with Retina display, the other into the DVI to VGA adapter, and then plugged that into the Multi-Display Adapter. Next, the USB cable was plugged into the MacBook Pro, and the screen came right up at a resolution of 1920 x 1080 (also known as 1080p). The adapter will support resolutions on an external device of up to 2048 x 1152. As you'd expect, the Adapter is bus-powered and requires no external power. I previously had some issues when testing a Mini DisplayPort to HDMI adapter when connecting a MacBook Air to a PC projector, so I thought I'd try the projector with this adapter (in most cases, I'll actually just use an HDMI cable to go straight from the MBP to the projector). Once again, the adapter worked like a champ, allowing me to drive the projector flawlessly from the MacBook Pro. Considering the variety of video output modes that are available on most modern Macs -- HDMI, Thunderbolt, and Mini DisplayPort -- you might not need to have a USB 3.0-based adapter to add a monitor to your setup. However, it's nice to know that the option exists, and that the price tag on this adapter isn't too bad -- it was selling on Amazon today for $20 off the MSRP. Conclusion If you're looking for a way to hook up a DVI or VGA monitor to a Mac through USB 3.0, the Kensington Universal Multi-Display Adapter is a bus-powered alternative that may fit your needs. Pros Provides a way to connect a monitor, projector, or other display to your USB 3.0-equipped Mac without using a Thunderbolt, Mini DIsplay Port, or HDMI port Can also be used with Windows PCs DVI / VGA out works with a lot of monitors and projectors Price isn't too high at retail, although generic adapters (Monoprice, etc...) might be available for less Cons Female out on both adapter and the DVI/VGA adapter is annoying; need to use a male by male cable (not included) to plug into most monitors and projectors Who is it for? Anyone with a Mac with USB 3.0 who needs to keep other ports empty or in use with other devices but who wants to drive another monitor or projector Giveaway We're giving away our review device! Here are the rules for the giveaway: Open to legal US residents of the 50 United States, the District of Columbia and Canada (excluding Quebec) who are 18 and older. To enter, fill out the form below completely and click or tap the Submit button. The entry must be made before May 15, 2013 11:59PM Eastern Daylight Time. You may enter only once. One winner will be selected and will receive a Kensington Universal USB 3.0 Multi-Display Adapter valued at $79.95 Click Here for complete Official Rules. Loading...
Kensington adds Mac compatibility to USB 3.0 docking stations, multi-display adapter
There's more to USB 3.0 than just fast storage; like Intel's Thunderbolt, it can carry video or networking data as well, with the right adapter. Thanks to some advances from DisplayLink (the underlying technology vendor) the Mac compatibility story for USB video is getting better. Kensington has announced Mac compatibility for its line of USB 3.0 Docking Stations and its Multi-Display adapter. The adapters are using the latest DisplayLink Mac driver to provide compatibility with OS X 10.6 Snow Leopard and later when used with a MacBook Air, MacBook Pro or iMac that supports USB 3.0. (There appear to still be a few quirks with the DisplayLink tools on OS X 10.8.) The products include the Kensington USB 3.0 Docking Station with Dual DVI/HDMI/VGA Video (US$199.99), the USB 3.0 Docking Station with DVI/HDMI/VGA Video ($169.99, seen at right), and the Universal Multi-Display Adapter ($79.99). The docking stations provide six USB 3.0 ports, support of HDMI 1.3, DVI to VGA and DVI to HDMI conversions for compatibility with a wider range of monitors, a built-in gigabit Ethernet connection, and one or two ports capable of supporting 1080p HD video depending on the model. The Universal Multi-Display Adapter uses a USB 3.0 SuperSpeed connection to drive a second monitor with resolution up to 2,048 x 1,152 pixels. It's powered from the USB port, so no external AC adapter is required. TUAW will be reviewing both the docking stations and multi-display adapter in the near future. All products are available for sale now. Show full PR text Kensington Adds New Compatibility for Mac OS X to USB 3.0 Docking Stations and Multi-Display Adapter Productivity Products smart.safe.simple.™ Designs Pair with DisplayLink Technology to Support Mac OS X V10.6 Snow Leopard through OS X V10.8 Mountain Lion; New Compatibility Expands Connectivity to MacBook Air, Pro or iMac Redwood Shores, CA – April 11, 2013 – Kensington, a worldwide leader in delivering smart. safe. simple.™ mobile accessories today announced that its celebrated line of USB 3.0 Docking Stations and Multi-Display Adapter products are now compatible with Mac OSX users. Designed with DisplayLink's new driver for Mac, Kensington's productivity devices will work with Mac OS X V10.6 Snow Leopard through OS X V10.8 Mountain Lion. The new compatibility enables Apple computer users to supplement connectivity to their devices, including MacBook Air, Pro or iMac. Using either of the Kensington USB 3.0 Docking Stations and Multi-Display Adapter, Apple users can now add multiple monitors, use additional USB ports, and leverage Gigabit Ethernet for fast data connection. The products are designed to help increase productivity and are ideal for hot desk environments where you are not restricted to one make or model of laptop. Research from Microsoft on the use of multiple monitors found up to a 50 percent increase in productivity for tasks, such as cutting and pasting. Similar research from the University of Utah discovered a 10 percent production increase ,with 33 percent fewer errors. "There's a growing demand from Apple users for additional connectivity to their hardware, and we at Kensington intend to meet that need. Macs by design are sleek and aesthetically pleasing, however, the tradeoff for slim form factors is the cost of connectivity," said Matt Evans, Product Marketing Manager at Kensington. "For example, most MacBooks lack a standard display output for HDMI, DVI or VGA- the basic connections for projectors and monitors in the office environment. Our new Multi Display Adapter coupled with the new DisplayLink driver for Mac, gives Apple users the versatility they have been asking for back, so getting work done more efficiently is easy." John Cummins, Vice President of Sales and Marketing at DisplayLink also agrees on the importance of Mac compatibility, saying, "Given the high demand from the Apple community, adding Mac support to our USB 3.0 product sets was certainly high on DisplayLink's priority list. We've seen an increase in Mac computers being used both by consumers and in the corporate and enterprise environment. We are excited to work with Kensington to bring our technology to its lineup of USB docking stations." Kensington USB 3.0 Docking Station with Dual DVI/HDMI/VGA Video sd3500v (SKU K33972US; SRP $199.99) Ultrabooks™, MacBook® and other super slim laptop computers are reliant on sleek good looks but often lack enough ports for connectivity. As a result, you're constantly plugging and unplugging peripherals to connect to the devices you need. The Kensington USB 3.0 Dual Docking Station turns one USB port into six so that with one hot swappable USB connection you'll have access to all of your peripherals even two 1080HD video monitors. Audio 2.0 for enhanced sound & Compatible with USB 3.0 and 2.0 Corporate Install feature allows administrators to install the graphic driver over a Microsoft® server Dual 1080p HD video for high quality video DVI to VGA and DVi – HDMI conversions for greater monitor compatibility Faster network and Internet access with Gigabit Ethernet connection HDMI 1.3 supported High-speed data transfer of up to 5 Gbps Optimized for Ultrabooks™ and MacBook®s to turn one USB port into 6 Quick one-touch USB connection for hassle-free setup Slim, low-profile design with built-in security slot Kensington USB 3.0 Docking Station with DVI/HDMI/VGA Video sd3000v (SKU K33970US; SRP $169.99) Ultrabooks™, MacBook® and other super slim laptop computers are reliant on sleek good looks but often lack enough ports for connectivity. As a result, you're constantly plugging and unplugging peripherals to connect to the devices you need. The Kensington USB 3.0 Docking Station turns one USB port into six so that with one hot swappable USB connection you'll have access to all of your peripherals even a 1080HD video monitor. 1080p HD video for high quality video Audio 2.0 for enhanced sound & Compatible with USB 3.0 and 2.0 Corporate Install feature allows administrators to install the graphic driver over a Microsoft® server DVI to VGA and DVi – HDMI conversions for greater monitor compatibility Faster network and Internet access with Gigabit Ethernet connection HDMI 1.3 supported High-speed data transfer of up to 5 Gbps Optimized for Ultrabook™ and MacBook® to turn one USB port into 6 Quick one-touch USB connection for hassle-free setup Slim, low-profile design with built-in security slot Powered by DisplayLink's integrated DL-3700 IC (SD3000), Hot pluggable video and audio – automatically detects and routes sound and graphics to the peripherals as they are connected to the dock - Host Interface USB 3.0 Kensington Universal Multi-Display Adapter (SKU K33974AM; SRP $79.99) The Kensington Multi-Display Adapter allows you to expand your viewing options and add a secondary screen to your laptop, Ultrabook™, MacBook® or Windows 8 tablet. It allows a secondary display to increase your productivity or give you the confidence when presenting that you can connect to any projector or TV screen via a single USB. For instant connectivity and superb picture quality between laptop and additional display, the Kensington Universal Multi-Display Adapter uses a USB3.0 SuperSpeed connection. Superior high-definition graphics supporting resolutions up to 2048 x 1152 Supports connection to monitors, projectors and HDTV screens USB 3.0 ensures fast streaming and superb picture quality Easy installation and updates of DisplayLink drivers Included DVI-VGA adapter for better flexibility Powered off the USB port of laptop - no external power needed Simple setup, one end connects to another display, the other to your USB Universally compatible with any brand or model of laptop or Ultrabook™ with USB USB 3.0 is ten times faster than standard USB connections Product Availability These Kensington products are available for at Kensington.com and Amazon.com. For additional information on the new and existing line of Kensington products, please visit http://www.kensington.com.
Review and giveaway: Kensington KeyCover Hard Shell Keyboard for iPad
There's a new iPad keyboard in town: accessory manufacturer Kensington is now shipping the KeyCover Hard Shell Keyboard for iPad (US$79.99). A competitor to the Logitech Ultrathin Keyboard Cover ($99.99), the KeyCover provides the same functions of protecting the iPad screen and being a Bluetooth keyboard. Let's take a look at the new contender, and then you'll have a chance to win one from TUAW and Kensington. Design Since it's made to cover the screen of your iPad, the KeyCover keyboard is almost exactly the same size as the Logitech Ultrathin, just a bit thicker. But there are some major differences in the way that the devices are constructed. The Logitech Ultrathin is made out of hard polycarbonate with a shiny aluminum backplate. The KeyCover uses a dark anodized aluminum back, but this one is rather "square" and blocky compared to the nicely rounded back on the Ultrathin. The material used for the body of the KeyCover and the keys is a nice matte black soft finish plastic that doesn't reflect light. %Gallery-179511% While the controls for the Logitech unit are all on one side, the KeyCover places them right in front of you on top of the unit -- there's an off/on button as well as another to connect the keyboard to your iPad via Bluetooth. The Ultrathin uses a Smart Cover-like magnetic hinge to attach to your iPad while in transit, and also has magnets that will turn your iPad on and off. The KeyCover has no such hinge, but does have magnets for automatic sleep and wake up. Behind the notch where the iPad sits, there's a small pop-up prop that's used to make sure your iPad is stable in the upright position. The KeyCover also has four small rubberized feet, important for isolating the keyboard from surfaces and insuring that it stays in one place while typing. The KeyCover felt more solid while typing than the Logitech unit, which occasionally slid around on my desktop, and those feet keep it from getting the scratches that have appeared on the Logitech Ultrathin. The Kensington KeyCover provides a separate row for function keys, rather than assigning those functions to the number row of the keyboard as on the Ultrathin. The Ultrathin also uses larger space bar, command, option, control, and fn keys, making it quite simple to hit the correct key when you need it. On the KeyCover, those keys are the same height as others on the keyboard. Weight-wise, the KeyCover hits the scales at 10 ounces, 1.6 ounces lighter than the Logitech unit. Functionality Let's face it -- a keyboard's a keyboard. But when you sit in front of one all day, every day like I do, you can quickly tell whether or not you're going to like typing on a new keyboard. The Logitech Ultrathin Keyboard Cover has an excellent feel, and I was able to type quite quickly on it. Likewise, the keys of the KeyCover have a good feel and feedback, and I could type pretty quickly on it as well. However, the design of the KeyCover has a raised lip on both sides of the keyboard and on the bottom corners as well. I like to rest my palms on a desktop while typing -- something that would probably drive my junior high typing teacher Miss Francis crazy -- and I found that my hands would occasionally come into contact with that raised lip. Your typing style may be different from mine, so if you keep your wrists off of the desktop while typing you'll be fine. I personally found the KeyCover to be a pain -- almost literally -- to take off. It's easy to get the KeyCover and your iPad together, since you just flop the iPad face down onto the KeyCover. But pulling the two apart was a chore. The Logitech Ultrathin simply opens like a notebook and doesn't require as much physical effort to get off. One bright point to the difficulty of getting the KeyCover off is that your iPad screen should be protected even if you drop the iPad. At one point while I was typing with the iPad in portrait orientation, the little prop that holds up the iPad "let go" and my iPad fell flat onto its back with a loud bang. This happened several time, all when I had the iPad in portrait mode. Needless to say, I would not recommend using the KeyCover with your iPad in portrait mode. The pop-up stand never failed when I was typing in landscape orientation, but definitely had issues with the extra moment arm provided by a vertical iPad. Conclusion While I still consider the Logitech Ultrathin Keyboard Cover to be the cream of the crop, the Kensington KeyCover is a close second. It would do a better job of protecting the screen of the iPad than the Logitech Ultrathin if dropped, and the lower price is definitely attractive. Pros Lighter than its primary competitor by almost two ounces Function keys are in a separate row Matte finish of the KeyCover doesn't cause reflections Less expensive than the Logitech Ultrathin Cons Raised "lip" around sides of keyboard can interfere with hand mobility while typing Pop-up stand that holds iPad collapsed when iPad was in portrait mode Who is it for? The budget-minded iPad user who wants a sturdy cover that can also be used as a keyboard Giveaway As usual, we'll be giving away our review keyboard. Here are the rules for the giveaway: Open to legal US residents of the 50 United States, the District of Columbia and Canada (excluding Quebec) who are 18 and older. To enter, fill out the form below completely and click or tap the Submit button. The entry must be made before February 24, 2013 11:59PM Eastern Standard Time. You may enter only once. One winner will be selected and will receive a Kensington KeyCover Hard Shell Keyboard for iPad valued at $79.99 Click Here for complete Official Rules. Loading...
Kensington wants you to be very afraid of losing your iPhone, buy its $60 Proximo system
A mobile phone is lost or stolen every 3.5 seconds, warns Kensington, handily quoting data from 2011. The company's solution is simple: a low-power wireless fob that stays in your pocket and sounds the alarm if you move too far away from your iPhone 5 or 4S. The idea has been around for a while, of course, and it's proving popular elsewhere at CES right now, but the $60 Proximo Starter Kit -- now available for pre-order -- adds a couple more components. As well as the fob, you also get a tag that can be attached to other valuables and an iOS app that allows the monitoring of up to four further tags (priced at $25 each) simultaneously. Each fob and tag lasts up to six months thanks to low-power Bluetooth 4.0, and the CR2032 battery should be easy enough to switch out. Calm your separation anxiety further with the press release after the break.
CES 2013: Kensington offers a tracking solution with the Proximo Tag Kit
Kensington is in attendance at the International CES here in Las Vegas this week, and the company kindly sat down with TUAW this afternoon to show off some of its latest products. The most interesting of their recent offerings is something called the "Proximo Fob and Tag Kit," which is a relatively cheap tracking solution designed to work over Bluetooth 4 with your iPhone 4S or iPhone 5. We've seen tagging kits like this before, but Kensington's, now available, offered a nice set of features at a very reasonable price. The idea is that you can use an included key fob or a tag (just the tag is available for US$24.99, while a full fob and tag kit is $59.99) by attaching it to whatever object you'd like to keep safe, whether that's your keys, a purse or even a kid or a dog. Then you can use Kensington's free app to get alerts whenever that item/person moves out of range of your phone, so if you ever walk away and leave your keys at your desk, or if the dog wanders out of the yard, you'll know right away. The app offers a nice bit of customization -- you can attach five different tags to it, and each one gets its own alert sound and an icon (or a custom picture), so there are plenty of different options for tracking various objects. The app also lets you set the sensitivity for each tag, so you can set your keys to stay very close, or set your car for a wider range. You can also track your phone directly from the fob (though the tag doesn't have any extra buttons on it, so that's a no-go there). If you ever lose your phone, you can just hit the button on the key fob, and then your phone will light up with an alert. Finally, Kensington's kit also tracks your GPS, and while it can't actually find items via Bluetooth (because that service isn't positional at all), it can let you know where you last saw them. Whenever you lose track of a tag, the app will mark that point on a map, so you can be aware of where you last were when the tag went out of range. It's not quite as nice as geolocating right to the tag, but it works for helping you find lost items. Aside from the Proximo tags, Kensington also showed off new charging kits, including a 4.2 Amp dual-USB charger for the car (enough to charge two different iPads up at the same time) for $34.99, a "Fast Charge" Lightning adapter to charge any iOS device for $29.99 or an iPhone-only charger for $24.99. Kensington is also offering another line of iPad cases, including some more stylish "Folio cases" for the iPad, and even a line for the iPad mini. Finally, while not iOS-specific, the company was showing off a Contour Overnight backpack, with a special laptop-sized pocket and easy liquid access for going through airport security checkpoints. The backpack is a very impressive addition to the company's luggage lineup, and should also be available later on this year.
Ask Engadget: how do you secure a laptop without a Kensington slot?
We know you've got questions, and if you're brave enough to ask the world for answers, then here's the outlet to do so. This week's Ask Engadget inquiry is from Scott, who needs some peace of mind with his new laptop, since it doesn't have a security slot. If you're looking to ask one of your own, drop us a line at ask [at] engadget [dawt] com. "I have a Lenovo U410, which doesn't have a Kensington lock slot. Do you have any suggestions as to how to keep it physically secured? Thanks!" Well, Scott, while it's not the greatest situation, there are a few alternatives you might want to try. For example: Griffin's TechSafe connects through the device's hinge, and should do a job to deter casual thieves. There's also Kensington's laptop docking station, which also clips around your device's display -- but does require you to drill some holes through your desk. Of course, that's just our two cents, now it's time for you lot out there to chip in with your own suggestions. If you've learned the secret to securing Kensington-free laptops, share your knowledge in the comments below.
Kensington updates DisplayLink universal laptop docks with USB 3.0
Having somewhere to dock your laptop is insanely convenient. Of course, each manufacturer tends to have their own proprietary solution. And usually a different dock is needed for each model. Fun, right? Well, Kensington has their own universal solution that makes the most of the ubiquitous USB port and the unfortunately less ubiquitous DisplayLink. The company unleashed an update to its line of universal laptop docks today that takes advantage of the bonus bandwidth provided by USB 3.0. The Office Dock (sd3500v) and Home Dock (sd3000v) both offer USB 2.0 and 3.0 expansion slots, a gigabit Ethernet port, audio out as well as DVI and VGA ports for plugging in an external monitor. The Office dock ups the ante by supporting 5.1 surround sound via HDMI which, obviously, also gives you an additional video port option. Both are available now world wide, with the Home Dock retailing for $170, while its slightly more premium brother commands a $200 price tag. Check out the PR after the break.
Upscale London borough says no no no to BT's broadband revolution, ugly green boxes
Between all of the delays, disappointment and a general lack of availability, many Brits can't seem to catch a break when it comes to getting fast internet -- but this time it could be their own fault. BT's fiber optic rollout plans came to a screeching halt in Kensington and Chelsea after a staggering 96 of 108 applications for big green street cabinets housing the fiber were flat-out rejected. The local council just isn't prepared to clutter its pristine streets with the "ugly" boxes. The telecoms provider now says it'll concentrate on nearby areas that "have shown a greater eagerness to enjoy the benefits of broadband." It's a good thing there are no plans to paint their famous telephone booths green, or those might be out of a job as well.
IRL: WildBlue satellite internet, international charging, a flashing habit and failing to get work done on an iPad
Welcome to IRL, an ongoing feature where we talk about the gadgets, apps and toys we're using in real life and take a second look at products that already got the formal review treatment. It's been a whirlwind two weeks of sitting inside concept cars, soaking up details about the PlayStation Vita and getting acquainted with Windows 8, and now that it's all wound down, we're getting back to the business of griping about gadgets we already own. This week, Darren dresses down the satellite service we used to hit posts in the wilderness, Tim takes a breather after a year of jet-setting, Joseph carries on his flashing streak and as for Joe, well, let's just say his honeymoon with the iPad has come to a sudden, unproductive end.
Kensington SecureBack case keeps iPads safe
Kensington extended its range of computer security products by introducing a new SecureBack case for the iPad 2. The case cradles the iPad 2 and provides it with a ClickSafe Security Anchor that's used on Kenisngton's other protective products. The product targets companies that are handing out iPads to their employees and want to prevent the loss of sensitive data. The cases are also designed to provide access to all the ports, speakers and buttons. It does appear to add some bulk to the slim profile of the iPad, but its a necessary tradeoff for increased security. Pricing for the entry level SecureBack case starts at US$49.99. Show full PR text Kensington Delivers the Next Level of Physical Security for iPad 2 Extends the ClickSafe™ Family of Security Products to Protect iPads™ In Public Environments Redwood Shores, Calif. – September 14, 2011 - Kensington Computer Products Group, a worldwide computing accessories provider for the mobile professional, today introduced a new line of ClickSafe® enabled security cases for the iPad 2. The new SecureBack™ Case uses Kensington's smart. safe. simple.™ ClickSafe® technology to secure the iPad and prevent device and data theft. The loss or theft of an iPad can result in severe consequences for users who rely on them-from lost productivity to replacement costs. The most serious compromise is the loss of sensitive personal and business data residing on iPad devices. Gartner projects that 80% of businesses will support a workforce using tablets by 2013 and Kensington's smart. safe. simple.™ approach to iPad 2 security ensures a smart first line of defense for tablet users wherever they go. Kensington's family of SecureBack cases features a unique three-piece design with a patent- pending rail system that quickly and easily secures the iPad to prevent theft. The case includes the world-class ClickSafe Security Anchor that enables iPad users to easily lock their tablet, in just one click. Designed to complement the iPad in every way, SecureBack preserves the tablet's celebrated, slim form factor. SecureBack offers full access to the iPad 2's ports, speaker, and cameras. The integrated security bar on each case can tilt the iPad for an ideal on-screen typing angle. Kensington has introduced two versions of the SecureBack case. The first features one-click security in a sleek form factor ideal for handheld use. A second case adds a 2-way extendable stand with 20-degree typing angle and 60-degree landscape viewing angle. Both versions are available bundled with a ClickSafe lock and cable. "We are excited to offer our customers the superior protection, ease and simplicity of our ClickSafe security system for a tablet computer," said Brian Baltezore, Senior Global Product Manager at Kensington. "Tablet users need security that will complement, not hinder, their use of the iPad. SecureBack is a design that truly pays respect to the tablet's style and functionality, so that when an iPad user inevitably does have to walk away from their device, they can do so with confidence." New Kensington SecureBack Security Cases for iPad 2 Kensington SecureBack™ Security Case (K39308; SRP $49.99): This version of SecureBack is ClickSafe "ready" via the built-in security anchor. Strength, security and elegant design come together in the SecureBack Security Case for iPad 2. A thin, yet strong three-piece construction protects the iPad with durable plastic while maintaining its sleek look and feel. The form-fitting design of the case resists prying to protect the iPad from being stolen and an adjustable slider bar allows quick access to ClickSafe® Security Anchor. SecureBack provides full access to all iPad 2 controls, buttons, ports and cameras. Kensington SecureBack™ Security Case with 2-way Stand (K39310; SRP $59.99): This version of the SecureBack case is ClickSafe "ready" via the built-in security anchor. In addition, the thin three-piece construction of the SecureBack™ Security Case with 2-way stand protects your iPad 2. The durable plastic case maintains its sleek look and feel, while a 2-way extendable stand accommodates flexible iPad orientation. Use the stand in landscape mode for typing or portrait mode for viewing movies or surfing the web. Kensington SecureBack™ Security Case with ClickSafe Lock (K39309; SRP $79.99): Securing the iPad 2 on the go is easy with the SecureBack™ Security Case with ClickSafe Lock. The thin, yet strong three-piece construction combines into a durable plastic case for iPad, while preserving access to all controls, buttons, ports, and cameras. An adjustable slider bar allows quick access to ClickSafe® Security Anchor or covers it when not in use. The included ClickSafe Keyed Lock provides unparalleled ease of use to lock down the iPad 2 with just one click. ClickSafe's advanced cable construction of 7x7 configuration is specifically used to combat thievery attempts, assuring that the tablet, and all of the data on it, are always secure. Kensington SecureBack™ Security Case with 2-way Stand & ClickSafe Lock (K39311; SRP $89.99): Achieve maximum productivity and superior security for your iPad 2 with the SecureBack™ Security Case with 2-way stand & ClickSafe Lock. The thin, yet strong three-piece construction combines into a durable plastic case for iPad, while a 2-way extendable stand accommodates flexible iPad orientation for landscape or portrait viewing. An adjustable slider bar allows quick access to ClickSafe® Security Anchor and an included ClickSafe Keyed Lock provides unparalleled ease of use to safeguard the tablet at all times, with just one click. Product Availability The Kensington SecureBack Security Case line of products is currently available for pre-order at Amazon.com, Kensington.com and other major retailers. For additional information on the new and existing line of Kensington products, please visit http://www.kensington.com. Follow Kensington on Twitter @KensingtonZone Visit the Kensington SafeZone blog: http://blog.kensington.com/security/Show full PR text Kensington Delivers the Next Level of Physical Security for iPad 2 Extends the ClickSafe™ Family of Security Products to Protect iPads™ In Public Environments Redwood Shores, Calif. – September 14, 2011 - Kensington Computer Products Group, a worldwide computing accessories provider for the mobile professional, today introduced a new line of ClickSafe® enabled security cases for the iPad 2. The new SecureBack™ Case uses Kensington's smart. safe. simple.™ ClickSafe® technology to secure the iPad and prevent device and data theft. The loss or theft of an iPad can result in severe consequences for users who rely on them-from lost productivity to replacement costs. The most serious compromise is the loss of sensitive personal and business data residing on iPad devices. Gartner projects that 80% of businesses will support a workforce using tablets by 2013 and Kensington's smart. safe. simple.™ approach to iPad 2 security ensures a smart first line of defense for tablet users wherever they go. Kensington's family of SecureBack cases features a unique three-piece design with a patent- pending rail system that quickly and easily secures the iPad to prevent theft. The case includes the world-class ClickSafe Security Anchor that enables iPad users to easily lock their tablet, in just one click. Designed to complement the iPad in every way, SecureBack preserves the tablet's celebrated, slim form factor. SecureBack offers full access to the iPad 2's ports, speaker, and cameras. The integrated security bar on each case can tilt the iPad for an ideal on-screen typing angle. Kensington has introduced two versions of the SecureBack case. The first features one-click security in a sleek form factor ideal for handheld use. A second case adds a 2-way extendable stand with 20-degree typing angle and 60-degree landscape viewing angle. Both versions are available bundled with a ClickSafe lock and cable. "We are excited to offer our customers the superior protection, ease and simplicity of our ClickSafe security system for a tablet computer," said Brian Baltezore, Senior Global Product Manager at Kensington. "Tablet users need security that will complement, not hinder, their use of the iPad. SecureBack is a design that truly pays respect to the tablet's style and functionality, so that when an iPad user inevitably does have to walk away from their device, they can do so with confidence." New Kensington SecureBack Security Cases for iPad 2 Kensington SecureBack™ Security Case (K39308; SRP $49.99): This version of SecureBack is ClickSafe "ready" via the built-in security anchor. Strength, security and elegant design come together in the SecureBack Security Case for iPad 2. A thin, yet strong three-piece construction protects the iPad with durable plastic while maintaining its sleek look and feel. The form-fitting design of the case resists prying to protect the iPad from being stolen and an adjustable slider bar allows quick access to ClickSafe® Security Anchor. SecureBack provides full access to all iPad 2 controls, buttons, ports and cameras. Kensington SecureBack™ Security Case with 2-way Stand (K39310; SRP $59.99): This version of the SecureBack case is ClickSafe "ready" via the built-in security anchor. In addition, the thin three-piece construction of the SecureBack™ Security Case with 2-way stand protects your iPad 2. The durable plastic case maintains its sleek look and feel, while a 2-way extendable stand accommodates flexible iPad orientation. Use the stand in landscape mode for typing or portrait mode for viewing movies or surfing the web. Kensington SecureBack™ Security Case with ClickSafe Lock (K39309; SRP $79.99): Securing the iPad 2 on the go is easy with the SecureBack™ Security Case with ClickSafe Lock. The thin, yet strong three-piece construction combines into a durable plastic case for iPad, while preserving access to all controls, buttons, ports, and cameras. An adjustable slider bar allows quick access to ClickSafe® Security Anchor or covers it when not in use. The included ClickSafe Keyed Lock provides unparalleled ease of use to lock down the iPad 2 with just one click. ClickSafe's advanced cable construction of 7x7 configuration is specifically used to combat thievery attempts, assuring that the tablet, and all of the data on it, are always secure. Kensington SecureBack™ Security Case with 2-way Stand & ClickSafe Lock (K39311; SRP $89.99): Achieve maximum productivity and superior security for your iPad 2 with the SecureBack™ Security Case with 2-way stand & ClickSafe Lock. The thin, yet strong three-piece construction combines into a durable plastic case for iPad, while a 2-way extendable stand accommodates flexible iPad orientation for landscape or portrait viewing. An adjustable slider bar allows quick access to ClickSafe® Security Anchor and an included ClickSafe Keyed Lock provides unparalleled ease of use to safeguard the tablet at all times, with just one click. Product Availability The Kensington SecureBack Security Case line of products is currently available for pre-order at Amazon.com, Kensington.com and other major retailers. For additional information on the new and existing line of Kensington products, please visit http://www.kensington.com. Follow Kensington on Twitter @KensingtonZone Visit the Kensington SafeZone blog: http://blog.kensington.com/security/
Kensington trots out universal tablet case, BunjeeAir Power for finding your misplaced iPhone
In addition to that three-piece armor case that chains your iPad to a hotel desk, Kensington quietly added three other products to its lineup -- a motley collection running the gamut from a universal tablet case to a doo-dad that vibrates when you're about to leave your iPhone at home. Starting with the doo-dad, BunjeeAir Power is a $100 accessory small enough to fit on a keychain, and pairs with a free iOS app and a special case (included in the bundle). If that sounds like a clumsy setup, keep in mind that Apple doesn't allow third-party accessories to lock the phone via Bluetooth, so Kensington worked around that by developing an accessory that plugs into the iPhone's 30-pin connector and communicates over a 2.4GHz wireless connection instead. So, once you've put the case on, the keychain will vibrate and beep once you get roughly 30 feet away from the phone, and it'll eventually lock the device remotely, too. As an added touch, the case packs a 1,500mAh battery and a slot 'round back of the case into which you can insert a credit card or hotel room key to fashion a makeshift kickstand. Too bad none of this will help you the next time you abandon your iPhone in the backseat of a cab. Moving along, the company announced the KeyFolio Pro, a case with a detachable Bluetooth keyboard and removable velcro corners that'll fit any 10-inch tablet. The case, which costs $100, also has a stylus holder and seven notches, allowing you to prop the tablet up at a 22- to 72-degree angle. Wrapping it up, there's Absolute Power, a $120, 100-watt brick with USB and micro-USB sockets that's meant to replace the adapter that came with your laptop. Finally, there's that pen you'll see in those hands-on shots -- an $18 stylus that doubles as a real, honest-to-goodness pen, topped off with a removable cap. Peek our hands-on shots below, along with the vid after the break -- you know, if watching befuddled actors discovering they've forgotten their iPhone is your idea of a rip-roaring time. %Gallery-133546% %Gallery-133548%
Kensington's SecureBack case is like The Club for iPads (video)
Kensington already came out and admitted that employees don't actually use the locks handed to them on their first day of work. And yet, it's betting folks will want to swaddle their iPads in a thick layer of plastic and chain them to their desks. That, in a nutshell, is the idea behind the SecureBack, an iPad 2 case that allows you to lock down the tablet, armor and all, just as you would a laptop. That beaut you see up there is a three-part affair, with two pieces of plastic that come together to cover the back and are held together by a sliding slat. That's just the case, mind, you -- to lock it down you'll also need one of Kensington's ClickSafe locks, which the company already makes for laptops. It's up for pre-order now, with a standard version fetching $50 and a souped-up one with a kickstand going for $70. If you don't already have a compatible lock, you can also buy one bundled with the case, with that extra hardware adding thirty bucks to the cost. Full PR and a demo video after the break because really, what's more hypnotic than watching a set of hands dissemble a case? %Gallery-133544% %Gallery-133539%
Locking iPad case makes your tablet far less portable, attractive, and enticing to thieves
Sick and tired of hauling your iPad into a dodgy work environment, scared to even leave it in your desk drawer for half a minute while you scurry across the office for a cup of scorched coffee? Never mind finding a new career -- just fill out the paperwork necessary to pack a concealed weapon and head over to Mac Locks. You see, the aforesaid site is now carrying what it calls the world's first locking iPad case -- a plastic shell that can be closed via lock and tethered to pretty much anything via a coated steel cable. Once it's secured, the only way to remove the tablet is the right way, or the fast way, with the breaking-and-entering method rendering the device worthless. The case itself can be had for $39.95, whereas the case / cable bundle is going for $64.95. But hey, it's hard to put a price on peace of mind, ya know?
Kensington's ClickSafe security lock: 'so easy, your employees actually use it'
Nice going, Kensington -- you just admitted to the world something we already knew. No one actually uses the lock slot / cable that's issued to them on their first day on the job. It's painful to envision the cash this company has made from mindless corporations who somehow think that employees are going to tie their laptops up each and every day, but now it has an alternative that it swears "your employees will actually use." The new ClickSafe system essentially works as such: you insert a small locking nub into the lock slot that ships on (almost) every new laptop today, and then you clip the new locking cable on by hand. Once you've completed the first step, the cable connection is a simple motion each morning -- in theory, at least. Peek the installation vid after the break if you're still having your doubts, and feel free to blow $49.99 / $69.99 (depending on model) if you just know that this time it'll be different. %Gallery-104749%
Found Footage: Kensington Bluetooth keyboard case for iPad
OK, admit it. The multi-touch screen on the iPad is amazing for most of the work that you do, but when you're really trying to type a lot of words quickly, the virtual keyboard sucks. We've seen a few similar keyboard cases demoed over the past few months, but this is the first we can remember from a well-known accessory manufacturer like Kensington. When it begins to ship next month, Kensington's Bluetooth keyboard case for the iPad will cost $99. The case has hotkeys for launching the home screen, searching, and controlling media playback, which will keep you from reaching up to tap the screen while you're working. According to the post on Liliputing, the case comes with a Lithium-ion battery that powers the Bluetooth transceiver for up to 3 months on a charge. Blogger Brad Linder noted that the keys have a "soft, rubbery texture," which sounds regretfully like the infamous PCjr chiclet keyboard. Still, as Linder states, that's still better than the on-screen keyboard for fast typing. In other iPad keyboard news, AIDACASE is reporting that their very similar Keycase Folio Deluxe for iPad is now shipping. The $99.99 case looks strikingly identical to the Kensington case, is charged through a Micro-B USB connector, and now has a magnetic flap to keep the folio closed when on the move. For this blogger, I'd rather spend $69 and get an Apple Wireless Keyboard if high-speed typing on an iPad becomes a necessity. [via übergizmo]