Logitech Fold-Up Keyboard and Joystick for iPad announced

Logitech has announced two new accessories for the iPad that work on the opposite ends of the spectrum – one of them will increase your productivity with the tablet while the other will improve your gaming experience. First up we have the Logitech Fold-Up Keyboard for the iPad 2. Suited for folks in the office or in the class room, this funky case turns your iPad 2 into a deployable device, where a simple unfolding process will give you a keyboard and a viewing stand that props your iPad 2 up at the right angle for you to work with on the desk.

Using Bluetooth to connect to your iPad 2, it automatically turns off to save power when the case is closed. And when closed, the Fold-Up Keyboard tucks neatly underneath the tablet, ready to hit the road with you, wherever you need to be. The case also supports the use of the Smart Cover, for those of you paranoid about protecting the tablet’s screen. No word on when the keyboard will start shipping, but it is up for pre-order now with a price tag of $129.99.

While the productive accessory is one of the more interesting original designs from Logitech we’ve seen in awhile, we can’t say the same for the iPad/iPad 2 Joystick which has already been done to death by other folks. Utilizing two suction cups, this joystick for your iOS tablet (it should be compatible with Android tablets as well) can be placed anywhere you like on the display (preferably on top of the game’s virtual D-pad) to give you tactile feedback for your movement hand when you’re playing certain games. No more having to look at where your finger is just to see where you’re pressing.

The Joystick features a coiled spring that automatically returns it to the center position, which is a nice touch, and comes with a travelling bag, but other than that, it’s your typical run-of-the-mill plastic joystick for the iPad. It’s available for pre-order now at $19.99 each.

George Wong
Categories: Apple, Tablets
Tags: Accessories, iPad, iPad 2, joystick, Logitech