Logitech on Wednesday introduced a new keyboard for the iPad that’s probably unlike any you’ve seen thus far. Where most manufacturers are busy building Bluetooth-enabled wireless boards, Logitech’s latest input device will utilize a wired connection.
The Logitech Wired Keyboard for iPad is being marketed for use in the classroom – an area where iPads are becoming increasingly more commonplace.
Mike Culver, vice president and general manager of mobility at Logitech, noted there is a challenge when a teacher needs to simultaneously pair multiple iPads with multiple wireless Bluetooth keyboards. Logitech’s new wired keyboard is designed to solve this problem so students can simply plug the keyboard in and get to work. It will also eliminate the need to charge wireless keyboards – something that could hamper productivity if neglected.
The wired keyboard, part of Logitech’s continued focus on mobile, will be available in two different versions when they ship; one will feature Apple’s new Lightning connector for use on the latest generation iPad while the other will terminate with a legacy 30-pin connector that’s compatible with all other iPads.
Both boards are spill-proof and feature a key life of five million stokes. Each will carry a three year warranty, we’re told.
Logitech says the Wired Keyboard for iPad will retail for $59.99, regardless of which model you choose. The version that uses the Lightning connector will be available in August while the 30-pin variant won’t hit stores until sometime in October. Logitech is accepting pre-orders now through their website.
