iPad Accessories, The Next Generation
The Apple iPad 2 represents a significant upgrade from the original, with the addition of two new cameras and the move to a downright zippy dual-core processor, all in a sleeker, lighter form factor. In fact, it seems as though everyone in my family wants to get their hands on it, because there is simply so much it can do.
The screen is so big and sharp, we want to watch everything we can on it. If we're watching video, we want superior audio to match. The Bluetooth connectivity opens up a world of possibilities, too. Lest we forget, there are plenty of "serious" uses for the iPad 2, if properly supported.
And so I submit my choices for Best iPad Accessories, each one designed to enhance the user experience of the tablet in a different way; some for fun, maybe a little work, but still in its own head-turning style.
Seagate GoFlex Satellite Mobile Wireless Storage
A 500-gigabyte iPad 2? Not exactly, but pretty darned close: With Seagate's self-powered, Wi-Fi-broadcasting GoFlex Satellite hard disk drive, we sync all of our compatible media (videos, music and photos) or just a sampling via drag-and-drop loading. Once we install the free app on our iPad 2, we choose the pocket-sized GoFlex Satellite as our new network--particularly useful if we can't get onto the internet--and we have fast 802.11n wireless access to it all. "We" as in up to three simultaneous users, each streaming a different movie onto a different iPad, all within about a 20-foot range. Instructional videos and sample content are thoughtfully pre-loaded, and the lithium ion battery (with different ways to charge) is good for about two full-length movies. ($199.99)
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As I was reminded on a recent roadtrip, the iPad 2 is one of the most kid-friendly gadgets I have ever tried, rewarding the mom and dad who invest in one with blissful hours of backseat silence. Of course, little hands are not always the most dexterous, so a friend like iGuy is a must for family sharing. The firm-but-pliable closed-cell foam surrounds the iPad 2 while leaving all ports, controls and cameras accessible. This protects the device during handling, enables it to stand on its own two feet when we have a flat surface around, and just makes it more fun in general, especially when the time comes to choose from the three tasty colors: Mango, Lime and Peacock Blue. Mmm, peacock.... ($39.95)
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JAMBOX by Jawbone Bluetooth Speaker
For those times when neither headphones nor the iPad 2's improved but still limited built-in speaker will do, consider this wireless outboard beauty from the famed maker of those ubiquitous hands-free earpieces. JAMBOX offers simple, versatile controls and connections, backed by a combination of tones and spoken-word feedback during setup and use. Copious hookup/travel/power accessories are included. The ample rubber base not only dampens audible vibrations but keeps the speaker from shimmying across a tabletop when the low end kicks in: It's bass we can see and feel as well as hear, and the sound quality is excellent, even at full volume. Style-wise, it arrives not merely in an array of four striking colors, but each brings a different style and texture on the rigid grilles: Black Diamond, Red Dot, Grey Hex and Blue Wave. ($199.99)
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No, the iPad 2 doesn't do everything that a full-on a laptop computer does, but it does enough that I sometimes find myself wishing that it had a bigger, better keyboard than the pop-up on the touchscreen. Et voila, the Arpeggio brings a hard, responsive set of QWERTY keys in a slim package, linking wirelessly via Bluetooth Class 2 for excellent range and reliability. The lithium ion polymer battery charges in under an hour, and this complete kit includes a soft padded case with separate pockets for both the keyboard and the iPad 2. ($99.95, also available a la carte, without the case, $59.95)
Where to Buy:
Griffin Technology Beacon Universal Remote Control
Part of the reason we tend to lose our remotes, other than their diminutive stature and their secret ability to grow legs, is the lack of respect we give them. Not so with the coveted iPad 2 (I always know exactly where mine is), too bad it can't operate my TV, Blu-ray player, DVR, receiver, etc. Or can it? The Griffin Beacon serves as an interpreter of sorts between the Bluetooth lexicon of Apple's iOS and the infrared world of home theater commands. The Beacon hardware pairs with the iPad 2 as a Bluetooth accessory, then uses Dijit's Universal Remote app to repurpose the 9.7-inch LCD into a custom touchscreen control panel that does whatever we need it to do. The Dijit app already knows more than 200,000 codes and is constantly updated, with learning capability for unrecognized gear. It even includes interactive program guides for every satellite, cable and over-the-air provider in the United States and Canada. And look, Ma: No wires! ($79.99)
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