The simple, low profile of the iPad is one of the big selling points for many tablet-seekers. Protecting your “magical pane of glass” is one of the most critical things for many iPad owners. With an ever-growing pile of cases, covers, sleeves, and stands, I sometimes find it hard to decide which to use. More often than not, the flexibility of one stand cuts into the sleekness or design of another. That’s where KickStarter project Smarter Stand for iPad steps into the scene.
The Smarter Stand is a unique accessory for you iPad’s Smart Cover or Smart Case. Designed to add flexibility to the iPad’s cover without adding unnecessary bulk, the Smarter Stand works by using two perfectly fit plastic clips to the smart cover, which isolate and restrict the folding of some the cover sections, turning it into a multi-position iPad stand.
According to developer Dotan Saguy, the Smarter Stand is all about being different from other stands.
“The reason I came up with the Smarter Stand is that I never used my other iPad stands: They’re all heavy and [too] bulky to carry around which defeats the core purpose of the iPad: being an ultra portable device. With Smarter Stand I always have my iPad stand with me. No added bulk or weight.”
Apple’s Smart Cover limits the iPad to 2 positions – a low angle (around 15°) for typing, and a high angle (around 73°) for FaceTime and video watching. While these angles are decent for their purposes, sometimes it’s those angles in between that are more practical for day-to-day usage.
Adding the two lightweight, slim plastic clips to the edges of your Smart Cover and a simple non-slip pad to the back of your tablet expand your viewing angles to include 33° and 45°, as well as a unique 15° private typing position – all with a simple slide of the clips.
The simple, yet ingenious idea of the Smarter Stand has found a wealth of support on KickStarter.com, blowing past the $10,000 goal in the first 24 hours, and now pushing $120,000 and nearly 7,000 backers with 20 days to go. Preordering now through KickStarter can net you a pair of white Smarter Stand clips and the non-slip pad for $12, or a pair in a color of your choice for $14, set for delivery in October of this year.
Adding the Smarter Stand to your Apple Smart Cover/Case can greatly expand the options for viewing angles for your iPad, without requiring bulky aftermarket cases or stands. The lightweight and unobtrusive design allows you to keep your tablet ultra portable while continuing to expand the functionality and productivity of one of the best (if not THE best) devices available.
Pricing: The Smarter Stand will officially debut later this year for $20, but pledging to support through KickStarter can save you a few bucks, while supplies last.
Of the many cases, covers, and stands for the iPad, the Smarter Stand clips and an Apple Smart Cover or Smart Case make a perfect combo for ultra portability and ultra productivity! Find out more by heading over to SmarterStand.com, check out the video below, or get the details on the KickStarter page.