Categories
Tablet Accessories

Quarter keeps the Apple Pencil right by the side of the iPad Pro

The first six or seven iPads from Apple really didn’t change very much. Yes, they got faster, thinner, lighter and sported higher resolution as the software steadily improved. But after the launch of the iPad mini, the product didn’t really break into a lot of new territory.

That changed this fall, when Apple took the iPad to new new heights (and widths) with the iPad Pro. Boasting a 12.9″ display, its screen is larger than that of some MacBooks. Indeed, Apple has made its capabilities a bit closer to the MacBooks’ as well by announcing a keyboard cover that attaches magnetically. It also announced the Apple Pencil, a stylus designed primarily for creative work. There’s no issue keeping the cover on the iPad Pro (because it’s, well, a cover). However, the Apple Pencil — unlike the digital pen for the Surface Pro — lacks any way to connect to the device for which it provides input.

Categories
Chargers/Batteries

Tiny TravelBuddy charger/portable battery props up in a plug

Smartphones always seem to run out of juice at the worst moments. And as we become increasingly dependent on them, it will continue to happen more and more frequently. TravelBuddy makes sure that when you’re caught with a dead battery and no cord, you’ll be just fine. This small battery plugs into the wall and into your iPhone, without a cord. It provides fast charging on the go. The best part is that it’s a keychain, so you’ll always have it on hand. Coming in five different colors, one TravelBuddy will cost backers $30 at an early price or $35 regularly. This product hopes to raise $10,100 on Kickstarter. Hopefully, TravelBuddy will be compatible with other types of smartphones in the future. Another drawback of the TravelBuddy is that you’d still need an outlet in order for it to work, unlike the similar Buckle Charger. Still, outlets usually aren’t too hard to find and if it charges the phone fast, then all the better.

Categories
Cell Phone Accessories Chargers/Batteries

Tiny Oivo charger bookends AA batteries to juice your smartphone

42bac56bba6a3361634790efb6df93fd_largeCommunication, social media, games, navigation — the way we use iPhones is a lengthy one, making it the most important tool in someone’s pocket. Products that save the day come in all shapes and sizes, but none charge the iPhone universally, a problem to which Oivo is the solution. Two magnetically connected halves hide connectors that accept four AA batteries, allowing users to bring their phone back to life anywhere in the world to locate that next point of interest, or to make that necessary call. How long it will with just four AA batteries remains to be seen, but those still interested can receive one in December 2o14 for $39.

Categories
Cell Phone Accessories Chargers/Batteries

NomadPlus lets your Apple charger work away from the wall

nomadplusAll of the portable devices in the world could all use a little boost when it comes to battery life. The NomadPlus is a convenient housing for any Apple USB wall plug with its own USB port on the front that can plug devices in and charge them but also charges itself to act as a portable battery charge. A stylish battery indicator on the device’s front displays the NomadPlus’s status and level of battery charge. Because it utilizes USB, this is a great tool to take the proprietary headache of many Apple devices and make them utilitarian to any USB-powered device. NomadPlus is available for pre-order for $39 and ships out November 30th.

Categories
Arts Tech Accessories

No printer? Blerline lets you easily trace whatever’s on your iPad on good ol’ paper

BlerlineAs everyone walks around constantly glued to their mobile devices, paper still remains relevant. Drawing on a tablet just isn’t the same as drawing on paper. To combine the convenience of digital with the functionality of paper, try out Blerline. These iOS-optimized sticky notes adhere to your iPad or iPhone and allow you to trace the image on your device onto the paper. It’s perfect for recreating a photograph, copying down notes or composing music. One pack of 25 notes for the iPhone 5 only costs backers $4 with estimated delivery in August 2014. Blerline hopes to raise $9,000 in a 41-day Kickstarter campaign. 

Categories
Cell Phone Accessories

Snakeable, less breakable, phone cables use armored ball joints

SnakablePerhaps there’s little that’s more annoying about fancy technology than the subquality USB cables that seem to break and kink with the least little bit of strain or stress. Finding a place to plug in and charge sometimes means a tight spot such as behind a desk, couch or nightstand. Snakable is a solution to the problem of USB cables breaking and kinking so quickly. The product’s ball joints allow it to move freely, giving it an ability to arch that keeps it from reaching its breaking point. It’s compatible with Apple and Android devices. For $15, backers get one product in their choice of multiple color options, which is 50 percent off of the expected retail price. Anticipated delivery is August 2014.

Categories
Cell Phone Accessories Tech Accessories

keyDock offers an iPhone charge at the end of your Apple keyboard

keyDockAs Apple’s machines get further and further away from having the jungle of wires a personal computer usually comes with, any accessories being developed for the Apple brand ought to have the same philosophy in mind. Hence, the keyDock for iPhone provides an unintrusive, simple phone dock that connects through the USB port on the side of the keyboard, keeping surfaces tidy while still providing all the features of a standard dock. Available in six different colors and with Lightning or 30-pin connectors for different models of iPhone, the keyDock is due out in July 2014 and backers who pledge €10 can get connected.