New “iPod Nano” Announced Today!

Steve Jobs announced a new iPod Nano today and I think the new design is absolutely adorable! It’s 46% smaller than the previous generation, has a more square design, and has a multi-touch screen interface. There’s a built-in clip so you can easily wear it on your clothes while walking. jogging, or working out. You can rotate the Home screen as well and customize the icons on it. This new iPod Nano also has a built-in FM radio, which is nice if you need to catch the news on the go! Best of all, it comes in a variety of colors: (Red is available exclusively on Apple.com).

I would love to get one of these — in pink, blue, or green! — but I don’t really need one. I already have an older iPod Shuffle (that I got as a gift) and it works great when I’m working out. But these pretty colors and the cute multi-touch screen is quite tempting. Plus, it makes a great fashion statement, but that means you’ll need more than one to compliment your outfits!

The camera has been removed in this version, which I think is a good call on Apple. A camera on a tiny device like this wouldn’t make sense. It’s already hard to hold and the quality wouldn’t be that great.

The 8GB model is $149 and the 16GB model is $179. They’re available for purchase starting today. If you’re interested in getting one, I suggest heading down to your local Apple store to try it out. For more information about the new 6th generation iPod Nano, see the official website.

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Apple iPod Announcements

Working and watching the Apple Announcement on my iPad. :) Lots of new iPod models, iOS 4.2, iTunes 10 with PING, and Apple TV so far…

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iPad Case Review: OtterBox Defender Series

Holy iPad! It’s the Batman of all iPad cases! That’s right, the OtterBox Defender Series iPad case has arrived. It’s super strong and tough, and has three layers of protection. Try to get through this case evil doers!

But with all silliness aside, this case is the most protective case I’ve seen yet. It looks very stylish and is quite multi-functional too. There’s enough layers of protection to impress even your iPad!

The first and inner-most layer is the slide and snap-on polycarbonate shell. Remove the upper piece and slide your iPad in. This polycarbonate piece is lined with a velvety material to keep your iPad scratch-free within the case. The bottom half of this case is removable so you can use your iPad Keyboard (or stand) with the case on. The removable piece also makes it easy to charge the iPad without removing the entire case. Simply slide the lower piece on and off when needed. Another nifty feature of this layer is the clear round plastic around the Apple logo, making it visible, yet keeping it scratch-free.

The next layer of protection is a durable silicone skin that wraps around the entire case. Every part around the edge of the iPad is covered by silicone, including the buttons and ports. If you need to use the headphone jack, simply pull out the silicone covering to use. This feature keeps the port dust-free when not in use. The orientation lock button is also covered in a similar way. Simply pull out to access the toggle switch. As for the volume and on/off buttons, you can simply press on them to access the features. There are cutouts where the speakers are, so the audio of the iPad is not compromised in the case.

The last layer of protection is a fun one. It’s the shield that you snap on top of the case to protect the display area when not in use. It makes a nice travel case if you need to toss it in a backpack or suitcase. But when you are using the iPad, this shield can convert into an iPad stand! On the interior of the shield are two slanted pieces that pull up to create a stand. Slide in your iPad (with case) on and viola, you have yourself a nice little iPad TV set. It’s very convenient when you need the iPad to be in a viewing position. The iPad will only fit in landscape mode, and the angle cannot be adjusted (~45 degree angle). And when you don’t want to use the stand, you can snap the shield onto the back of the case for more heavy-duty protection.

The one downside to this case is that it’s very heavy. It adds an additional 1.3 pounds to the iPad (with the shield on), but you can’t expect less from an indestructible case! Because of the weight, it’s not ideal for reading in long periods of time. The other downside is that it costs about 1/5 of the device. It’s a bit steep for an accessory, but the materials used are high quality if you can look pass these drawbacks. So prepare to put your iPad in the toughest case available on the market today!

In addition to the case and front shield, the package also comes with a cleaning cloth, squeegee, and screen protector, which is at least an additional $15 value.

The Otterbox iPad Defender Series Case is available in black for $89.95. You can purchase it at OtterBox.com.

Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars · $89.95 · OtterBox.com

Disclosure: This product was sent by OtterBox for review purposes. This is part of Beatweek Magazine’s coverage of iPad products. Opinions expressed in this article are my own.

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iPad Bag Review: NewerTech iFolio

You know those briefcases that business people carry with them to the office? Now there’s one made specifically for the iPad. It’s called the iFolio from NewerTech. It’s handcrafted here in the US from imported premium Brazilian leather. This little luxury item is a perfect fit for the business types.

The iFolio can be used in two ways. You can use the shoulder strap and wear it on one side. This is nice if you need to keep your hands free. The bag hangs right next to your side and feels very sturdy and lightweight. You can also remove the shoulder strap and convert it into a handheld case by holding the strap on its spine. I find the latter way to be convenient when you take your iPad to a meeting. It just gives the professional touch.

The case is held together with a zipper. Unzipping it will reveal a very business-like setup. To the left are compartments for various things. One compartment is for papers or a small notepad and there are also two credit card/identification/business card slots. In the center is a loop for a pen. I think this is the perfect place for an iPad stylist! On the right side is where you iPad would go.

The iPad is held together by four flexible leather straps. Putting your iPad in may be a little tricky at first, but is easy once you get the hang of it. Be sure to put the iPad into the top straps first. These ones are more fixed. Then put the lower right strap on next, and then the lower left strap. The lower left strap is wider, so it’s more flexible to reach the edge of the iPad. The one thing I noticed is that these four straps aren’t symmetrical or evenly sewn on the case. Also, the fourth strap is much wider than the other three. This was a bit odd, but they did their job well, which was holding the iPad firmly in place.

Once the iPad and your belongings are in place, just zip and go. I think this folio is more of a carrying case for the iPad and is not meant to be used on a desk. Typing from your lap is fine, but putting the case with the iPad on a table may not be the best way to use it. The cushions of the case get in the way. Fortunately, the leather straps can be stretched to hold the iPad along with a NewerTech NuGuard case in it for less formal use.

If you do not have many things to take with you, this is a very beautiful case to carry your iPad in. But if you’re like me and like to carry your keys, wallet, and phone with you, you may want to carry a smaller second bag.

Overall, the iFolio gives off a professional look and feel to those you rare carrying it. It’s classic design will attract business men and women alike. Although it may be beautiful and luxurious, there are some downsides including the uneven straps holding the iPad, lack of extra space and storage, and the high price to pay. The case does come with a lifetime warranty, which is very assuring.

The iFolio is available in a big assortment of colors — black, red, cream, dark red, yellow, orange, lite green, dark green, blue, cognac, and tan. The price range from $129.99 – $179.99 depending on the color. You can purchase it at NewerTech.com.

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars · $129.99 – $179.99 · NewerTech.com

Disclosure: This product was a 2-month review unit sent by NewerTech for review purposes. This is part of Beatweek Magazine’s coverage of iPad products. Opinions expressed in this article are my own.

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iPad Sleeve Review: My Green Monkey Designs

Want a fun and creative way to carry your iPad? You can be green at the same time too! Check out these lovely iPad sleeves from My Green Monkey Designs. These eco-friendly cases are examples of craftiness with a professional touch. Each sleeve is handmade from recycled clothing and fabric remnants, and individually designed, so no two are alike!

The one in particular that I’m reviewing is made of a man’s blue shirt and matching tie. The sleeve is made with a huge pocket in front, perfect for a small papers, cards, and a few small necessities. The main compartment is especially designed for the iPad. It includes a thick soft line to prevent any scratches and cleans your iPad as you slide it in. On the back is an actual pocket from the man’s shirt, a perfect place for your iPhone! And to tie it all together is a man’s tie, held together with a giant button on the front of the sleeve. It just doesn’t get any craftier than this!

Overall, I can tell this sleeve was made with lots of love and care. If you want something definitely unique and different for your baby (iPad), be sure to take a look at My Green Monkey Designs. I’m sure you’ll find something fun and inspirational. Check back often as iPad cases sell out quickly and new ones are added! iPad sleeves and cases range from $19 – $45, depending on style, material, and type.

Ratings: 4 out of 5 stars · $19 – 45 · My Green Monkey Designs

Disclosure: This product was sent by “My Green Monkey Designs” for review purposes. This is part of Beatweek Magazine’s coverage of iPad products. Opinions expressed in this article are my own.

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iPad Stand Review: Just Mobile UpStand

The Just Mobile UpStand^TM is a beautiful iPad stand — the kind that belongs in a fancy department store or something of that nature. It’s looks elegant with and without the iPad on it.

The UpStand is made of solid aluminum and has three parts to it. The bottom part is perfectly round, 6″ in diameter, and lined with a non-slip rubber material to hold the stand in place and prevent it from slipping. The stand part is made of two aluminum rods that supports the grips (the part that holds the iPad). The grips, which looks like a compass, is lined with a a thin rubber material to prevent any scratches on the iPad.

The UpStand holds the iPad in the perfect angle for watching movies or tapping around on your favorite game. If you have a wireless keyboard, it makes a nice monitor stand for typing up papers. You can also set it by your bedside and use it as an alarm clock, or in the kitchen as use it like a recipe book. There are many ways to use it!

The UpStand’s grip can hold the iPad along with most cases. That’s convenient since you don’t have to remove the case every time you use the stand.

The only disadvantage to this kind of stand is that it’s not that portable. It’s one solid piece that’s not compact for travel or packing. But a beautiful piece like this is not really meant to be moving around so much. It’s a nice stand to find a permanent place in your home, whether it be the kitchen or in your home office.

The UpStand is both practical and stylish and I’m sure you’ll find a place for it in your home. You can find more information on the Just Mobile UpStand Just-Mobile.comIn you’re in the U.S., you may purchase the UpStand at MacinBag.com.

Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars · $49.95 · Just-Mobile.com

Disclosure: This product was sent by Just-Mobile for review purposes. This is part of Beatweek Magazine’s coverage of iPad products. Opinions expressed in this article are my own.

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iPad Bag Review: Kensington Sling Bag

If you want a bag to carry your iPad without the excess bulk, consider the Kensington Sling Bag. Small yet roomy, this bag is heavily padded, keeping your iPad (or netbook) safe and sound.

The bag has a main dual zipper compartment. Within this compartment are three sections. The first being the heavily padded side which is for the iPad (or netbook up to 10.2″). On the top is a Velcro strap that holds your device in place. The second section is where you can put all of your other various necessities. This section is big enough to fit another iPad or netbook (but I wouldn’t suggest it because of the weight). And the third section is a small zipper pouch to put smaller things.

There is also has a zipper compartment in front. On the inside of this compartment, there’s a small Velcro pocket that fits an iPhone (or mobile device) perfectly. The other side is deeper — perfect for your keys, wallet, makeup, or other little things.

Since this is a sling bag (one strap for carrying), you can slide the bag from your back to the front very easily. This makes it convenient when you need to pull out your devices, or get something quickly from your bag. The adjustable Velcro strap allows you to wear the bag comfortably, no matter how tall or short you are.

One drawback on the bag is, the more items you carry in it (the more weight), the more the strap will pull across your chest. This may not be a big deal, but it does get uncomfortable if you’re a woman. So it’s best to keep the bag to lightweight items.

Another thing that would make the bag more comfortable to wear is a padded shoulder strap. If you put your iPad in it, I would recommend not carrying this bag for more than an hour. The way the bag is designed, it could only be worn on your left shoulder. So the weight may be bothersome after a period of time.

Overall, the Kensington Sling Bag is great choice if you want to carry your iPad, iPhone, and a few things around. The size of the bag makes it really convenient to take anywhere. And you really can’t beat the price of under $20!

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars · $19.99 · Kensington.com

Disclosure: This product was sent by Kensington for review purposes. This is part of Beatweek Magazine’s coverage of iPad products. Opinions expressed in this article are my own.

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iPad Bag Review: Cocoon Innovations Harlem Sling

Every geek has gadgets. Finding ways to carrying them around may sometimes be a hassle. But there’s a great solution. Meet the Cocoon Innovation Harlem Sling bag. It’s slim and lightweight, yet can fit most of your gadgets and personal belongings. As an added bonus, it’ll keep them organized as well.

There are three main zipper compartments in this bag. The largest is the back pocket that allows you to slip your iPad/netbook in easily. It’s large enough to hold your iPad with the thickest case out there, or a 10″ netbook. It’s lightly padded on the back so both you and your device are comfortable when you’re traveling.

On the front of the bag is a small media zipper pocket. This can fit an iPhone or media player in it. Next to the pocket is a small hole that you can thread your headphones though, which makes listening to music very convenient.

The third zipper compartment is large enough for the rest of your things. There’s a built-in divider where you store and separate your credit cards, pens, and little items. In addition to all the great space, this bag also comes with a Cocoon Innovation’s unique GRID-IT!^TM system. It’s their signature organization system made of rubberized woven elastic. This piece allows you to further organize your personal belongings into a neat little grid. Attach your headset, gadgets, second phone, cables, wires, chapstick, ID cards, markers, gum, mints, lotion bottle, shampoo, and more. The system is designed to hold your belongings firmly in place.

This bag is held together with an adjustable cross-body strap which reminds me of a seatbelt. The strap doesn’t have extra padding on it, but it does feels very comfortable on the body even after a long period of time. The weight in the bag is distributed evenly, so you don’t feel to heavy on any one side.

Overall, the bag is designed very nicely. Not only does it keep your iPad or netbook safe, you can carry all of your other important things in it as well. Simply slide the bag to your side and your belongings are conveniently within reach. Although the bag is small, this doesn’t compromise its ability to organized and quite functional. That’s what makes this bag stand out.

The only improvement I can suggest for this bag is the addition of some extra padding on the strap. But other than that, I feel this bag is perfect for geeks on the go.

The Cocoon Innovation Harlem Sling is available in three colors — Black, Gun Gray, and Racing Red. Considering that the GRID-IT!^TM system alone will cost you about $10, the price for this bag is really good. You can purchase it for $54.99 at Cocoon Innovations. Rated 5 our of 5 stars.

Disclosure: This product was sent by Cocoon Innovations for review purposes. This is part of Beatweek Magazine’s coverage of iPad products. Opinions expressed in this article are my own.

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iPhone Coasters

iPhone Coasters are now available for purchase! Wouldn’t you want to geek out your dining room with these amazing coasters? They currently come in three sets — The Core, Home, and Media sets. Each set depicts 6 of Apple’s default iPhone apps and may be purchase for £19.99.

For more information, see iPhoneAppsCoasters.com

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iPad Stand Review: Griffin A-Frame

At first glance, the Griffin A-Frame may look like a mini easle, but upon closer examination, it’s a well-thought out iPad stand with multiple uses!

The stand is made of a heavy aluminum — heavy, more as in sturdiness than weight — and has soft non-slip rubber around the hinges and where the stand meets the table/desktop, as well as where it may touch the iPad.

The attention to detail on this accessory is really nice. Any part of that may touch the iPad is lined with a soft rubber so the iPad would not scratch. The metal used is cleanly cut, leaving no sharp edges on the stand. The stand also folds neatly into a flat position, making it easier to pack in your luggage/gadget bags.

There are a few ways of using the Griffin A-Frame. You can it stand upright and put your iPad on it in either landscape or portrait mode. That’s one thing that works very well with this stand — the ability to have your iPad in landscape mode. Pair it with a bluetooth keyboard and you have a mini workstation.

Another way to use the stand is to have it flat on the desk and have your iPad sit in landscape mode on top of it. This provides a slight angle that’s perfect for typing onscreen. Your wrists rests on the bottom of the stand and you can comfortably type on the iPad for a while.

Having a thin case on the iPad or none at all is optional. The stand will hold the iPad either way. Some examples of how you can use the stand are:

• When syncing or charging your device. Just have the device lay on the stand in landscape mode and connect.
• Set up the stand and iPad in the kitchen and watch your favorite shows as you do dishes.
• Set it up on your desk to quickly and easily view your calendar and notes.
• Connect a keyboard and you have a mini and portable workstation.
• Use it as a stand for your iPad photo frame.

There are many more situations where you would want to use a stand, but I’ll leave that up to you to discover.

The Griffin A-Frame stand unclutters your workspace, while making it a little more sophisticated. Having the stand on your desk makes you iPad take up less room as well as make the content on your iPad more accessible and easier to read.

Overall, the Griffin A-Frame gets an A+ in my book. It’s solid, durable, and versatile. The Griffin A-Frame iPad stand is available for $49.99 at GriffinTechnology.com.

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iPad Sleeve Review: Waterfield Designs Slip Case

Simple yet elegant, the WaterField Designs’ iPad Slip Case is a perfect fit for your iPad. But don’t let the simplicity fool you. A lot of thought has went into the making of this slipcase.

The exterior is waterproof, keeping your precious toy away from accidental spills. The interior is lined with a soft ultra suede that not only keeps your iPad safe from any impact, but also cleans your device as you take it in and out of the case. Protecting your iPad is as simple as slipping your device in. Be sure to have the glass side of the iPad face the heavier padded side of the case. To take it out, hold onto the tab at the end and shake.

Due to the fitted size, this slipcase is best used without any other cases on the iPad. Overall, this case takes simplicity and elegance to a whole new level. If you want to wrap your iPad in a little luxury, this may be the sleeve for you.

The Waterfield iPad Slip Case is available for $29 an comes in a variety of colors — black, blue, green, brown, red, and silver. You may purchase it online at SFBags.com

Disclosure: This product was sent by Waterfield Designs for review purposes. This is part of Beatweek Magazine’s coverage of iPad products. Opinions expressed in this article are my own.

Video Demo

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iPad Case Review: Speck Fitted Cases

The wait is finally over! Speck’s Designer Fitted iPad cases have arrived. Don’t just protect your iPad, dress it up! With a variety of fun new colors and patterns, you’re iPad can become more than just an entertainment tool; it could become a conversational piece!

This case is made of two hardshell pieces – the back side is made of a Specky fabric design and a front side that lines the edges of the iPad. Put the iPad into the back side of the case first. Make sure the cutouts for the iPad are all properly aligned. Then snap on the top of the case, again, making sure the cutouts for the buttons are aligned. Snap on and you’re done. It’s as simple as that.

One drawback to the case is that there’s no easy way to clean the design side if it got dirty. It is made of fabric, so you have to be careful where you put the iPad. I recommend putting it on top of an iPad sleeve or napkin when you use it. You may want to avoid using it at restaurants or where food is close by.

Unlike it’s iPhone counterpart, the iPad case is much easier to remove. Simply find the bottom opening where the charger cutout is, and start removing it slowly. It shouldn’t take you more than a minute to take the case off.

This case protects the back of the iPad as well as the edges of it. The front part is beveled a bit, so if the iPad was to fall flat face down, it wouldn’t touch the floor. The case is also light and adds more style than weight to your iPad.

The Speck Fitted iPad cases are currently available in the following colors/patterns: Houndstooth Gray, Fadeaway Gray/Black/Green, Fadeaway Gray/Black/Pink, ClassicPlaid Pink & Gray, Black & White Plaid. You can purchase it for $49.95 at SpeckProducts.com

Disclosure: This product was sent by Speck for review purposes. This is part of Beatweek Magazine’s coverage of iPad products. Opinions expressed in this article are my own.

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iPad Case Review: M-Edge Leisure Jacket

For the brave souls who like to take their iPads on vacations, M-Edge has come out with the Leisure Jacket case just for them! It’s unlike any other iPad case on the market.

The front of the Leisure Jacket case has a clear vinyl cover that allows you to fully access all of the iPad’s touch screen. Tap, swipe, and zoom as you normally would on the iPad. The backside of the case made of a strong fabric and has a pocket built in. Within this pocket are three mesh compartments for your other accessories and devices like your iPhone, headset, and charger. There’s also a deeper pocket that you put paper as well. I don’t recommend stuffing this pocket too much since it’ll make the case uneven.

Both sides of the case are held together with a dual zipper. This is especially useful for times when you want to open part of the case to charge the iPad or plug in your headset. Removing the iPad from the case is not necessary at all. For example, you can charge the iPad just by unzipping part of the bottom.

The interior of the case is made of a high density foam frame that fits the iPad very nicely. Have the iPad face-up when you want to use it. The foam interior has cutouts for all of the iPad’s buttons and ports. All you have to do is press on the vinyl to toggle the buttons. You can do this with the convenience of not having to remove it from the case! When the iPad is not in use, you can put it upside-down in the case for extra protection.

Although this case looks water-proof, it’s not at all, and there’s a big warning for that. It does however protects your iPad from any moisture that might enter. If you’re brave enough to take your iPad to the beach, the park, or even the gym, this may be an ideal case for those kinds of trips. The case is great for keeping sticky sand off your iPad, not to mention sweaty fingers. Simply wipe the case clean with a cloth before removing your iPad.

One downside to this case is when you use it indoors, there is extra glare on the iPad due to the room’s lights. But this case is not made to be used indoors anyhow.

Another downside is that case is not a tight fit. It’s made in a way so you can move and squish the vinyl cover around easily. This works well for its outdoor use, however this design may not look as clean and sleek as some cases. For what it’s used for, it works well.

Overall, it’s a one-of-a-kind case that works well if you’re near any kind of moisture or the outdoors. The M-Edge Leisure Jacket iPad Case comes in a big variety of colors — red, lime green, orange, blue, and black. You can purchase it at MEdgeStore.com for $39.99.

Disclosure: This product was sent by M-Edge for review purposes. This is part of Beatweek Magazine’s coverage of iPad products. Opinions expressed in this article are my own.

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iPad Bag Review: Urban Tool PocketBar

The one thing I noticed about most iPad bags and sleeves is the extra padding you carry with you. Of course you want your iPad to be safe and nicely cushioned, but let’s face it, we can all walk around without having to carry a huge bag. Enter the Urban Tool Pocketbar – a pretty hip bag without the unnecessary bulk! It’s a great compromise between protection and fashion.

The pocketbar was specifically designed for geeks on the go. As you know, the iPad is not the only gadget geeks are carrying with them at any one time. We got our cameras, our iPhones, sd cards, and don’t forget the keys and wallet! The PocketBar solves this problem by making pockets for all of our necessities and putting it in a nice and organized way.

The bag comes with one main zipper pocket where you can safely slip your iPad (or a small netbook) into. There’s enough wiggle-room in this pocket to fit an iPad with a hard-shell case on. This is convenient because you want protection on your iPad when you do take it out to use as well. The interior is soft, however, it may be thinner than most iPad sleeves and bags. If you’re worried about the iPad, you may want to put your iPad in a case with a front side protection as well.

On the front of bag are four individual pockets, all of various sizes, which are perfect for your digital camera, cellphone, and other gadgets. The top pocket has a key yo-yo that you can hang your keys on. When you need to use your keys, simply pull and use. No need to take your keys off. I do recommend only hanging a few keys on it so it’s not too heavy that it’ll pull down on the yo-yo. Each of these four pockets have flaps over them to keep any rain or water out. The flaps for the pockets are deep enough that things won’t fall out of it, yet easy enough for you to get your digital camera out when you need to take a quick photo. The exterior of the front side is also made of a waterproof material that reminds me of a diver’s wetsuit.

Between the top pockets is a loop where you can insert a pen into. This makes it very handy and convenient when you need to sign your autograph! Between the bottom pockets is where a carabiner is inserted. You can use this to put more keys or even hang your usb keys there.

The backside of the bag has secret zipper pocket that’s perfect for putting your wallet and other odds and ends that didn’t fit anywhere on the front size.

You don’t just carry this bag, you wear it! The strap is adjustable, so you can have the bag hang low on your body, or wear it high and use the included body strap to wrap it around your waist. I recommend removing the body strap because it’s easier to put the bag on and off. Whether you’re tall or short, this bag can be fitted to your needs.

Under normal circumstances, the bag is the perfect protection for carrying around your iPad. It’s close enough to your body where you don’t need the heavy padding, but I don’t suggest throwing the bag around like you would with a purse or backpack.

The Urban Tool PocketBar is unisex and is available in 3 colors — Black, Denim Titanium, and Blue Jeans. You may purchase it at UrbanTool.com for $99.90 USD.

Disclosure: This product was sent by Urban Tool for review purposes. This is part of Beatweek Magazine’s coverage of iPad products. Opinions expressed in this article are my own.

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iPad Case Review: Macally Snap-On Cases

If want a durable and lightweight case for your iPad, Macally may have what you’re looking for. Macally’s Metrobpad (Black Protective Snap-on Cover) and Metrocpad (Clear Protective Snap-on Cover) are cases that easily snap onto the iPad and protect the backing and four corners of it.

Metrobpad (Black Protective Snap-on Cover)
The difference with this case is the non-slip coating that helps you hold the iPad more securely. The surface of this case is very nice to the touch and is coated both on the interior and exterior of the case. The only downside is that you may find fingerprints on it if you tend to have oily fingers. However, this can be cleaned off easily with a hand wipe.

Metrocpad (Clear Protective Snap-on Cover)
This case is absolutely clear, making it almost invisible. Your iPad would look close to what it looked like when you unboxed it. Your beautiful Apple logo will display right through the case.

There are four small nubs on both of these cases, so when you put it flat on the table, only the nubs are touching it. Also, all of your connections and controls are open, so there’s no need to remove the case when charging, changing the volume, or plugging in the headset.

These cases are slim enough to fit in most loose fitting iPad sleeves. I highly suggest purchasing a sleeve for your iPad since the front side is not protected. These cases may be thin, but they’re not thin enough for the Apple iPad keyboard dock. You will need to remove it when docking it on the stand.

Luckily, removing the case off the iPad is an easy task. Simple push down on the two corners of one side and the case comes off.

Overall, these cases are perfect if you’re looking for a thin light hardshell iPad case. You can purchase the Metrobpad and Metrocpad at Macally.com for $29.99 each.

Disclosure: This product was sent by Macally for review purposes. This is part of Beatweek Magazine’s coverage of iPad products. Opinions expressed in this article are my own.

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iPad Keyboard Dock Review

The iPad Keyboard Dock is definitely a peripheral made just for the iPad. It’s looks like a basic Mac keyboard, but with an iPad dock attached on the top side. Simply slide your iPad onto the dock. Once it’s in position, just type away. The keyboard dock holds the iPad in an upright eye-level position. On the back of the dock is a place for the charger to connect as well as a “line out” for speakers.

The keyboard itself has some nice built-in iPad features. The top row of keys takes you to the following screens or functions: Home, Search, Brightness low, Brightness high, Slideshow/lock, Bring up keyboard, enter passcode, iPod controls, volume, and iPad lock. This is quite handy when you need to make quick adjustments.

It’s a full-sized keyboard with a very clean and sleek design. There’s a slight tilt at the bottom of the keyboard so your hands are not laying flat on the table when typing. The keyboard dock has a straight design and layout, so I don’t recommend using this keyboard for long hours of typing. But since you’ll be using this with just the iPad, you probably won’t be using it for long periods of time anyways.

Also, because the iPad is docked directly on the keyboard, this setup is best used on a table or desk, as opposed to in your lap. This keyboard is also not the easiest to pack or lug around at a conference due to the dock part. It’s probably best used in the home instead.

This keyboard dock is best paired with Speck’s unique CandyShell case. There’s a small flap at the bottom for the keyboard dock to be put in.

You can purchase the iPad Keyboard dock for $69.00 from Apple.com or your nearest Apple Store retailer.

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iPad Case Review: Speck CandyShell

Speck Candyshell cases are back, and they’re bigger and better than ever! It’s no surprise that an iPad line for the Candyshells has been made. The iPhone version won Beatweek Magazine’s Best Rubber iPhone Case of 2009 Award! A bigger version of the case does require more care and Speck has handled that quite nicely. Not only that, they did it with a bit of style!

The interior is made of a soft rubberized material that absorbs any impact the iPad may encounter. The unique part about this case is the opening in the lower back. This allows you to dock the iPad on the keyboard without removing the case. It’s also handy when you need to charge the iPad too. Simply lift the cut-out piece to charge or dock your iPad. It snaps on and off of the iPad easily and kind of reminds me of a doggy door!

The edges of the case completely covers the iPad to prevent any scratches and bumps on the sides. There are also cutouts for the headset, screen lock, and holes for the speakers. However, the on/off button and volume controls are covered with a rubberized material. This also means that you may have to press them slightly harder than usual.

Overall, it’s a very unique design that’s both protective and stylish. The case covers the iPad seamlessly and is currently available in two colors — BatWing Black and NightShade Purple. You can purchase the Speck CandyShell for iPad for $49.95. For more information, see SpeckProducts.com

Disclosure: This product was sent by Speck for review purposes. This is part of Beatweek Magazine’s coverage of iPad products. Opinions expressed in this article are my own.

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iPad Sleeve Review: ColcaSac

This is a hands-on review of the ColcaSac iPad Sleeve for the iPad.

ColcaSac iPad Sleeves are beautifully hand-made iPad sleeves that are both protective and environmentally friendly. The original ColcaSac, a favorite of the line, is made of a soft basket-weave hemp canvas the exterior and lined with a thick cream-colored 100% polyester sherpa fleece. The texture on the sleeve’s exterior helps you get a good grip on it, while the interior adds extra protection from bumps and scratches.

On the top of the sleeve is a flap that’s securely closes the sleeve with velcro. Also on the exterior is also a small pouch where you can put a cd, headset, and/or your iPad plug.

The interior fleece of this sleeve is a really warm, so if your hands get cold, it’s another good place to put them! The craftsmanship of this sleeve is very detailed, and I can tell it was made with a lot of tender-loving care.

If you want something more original than the typical iPad sleeve, try the ColcaSac! I bet you can find an outfit that matches your new sleeve as well. This sleeve reminds me of a rigid outdoors jacket.

You can purchase ColcaSac iPad sleeves at ColcaSac.com for $34.95. They come in a variety of colors including: Brown ColcaSac, Black ColcaSac, Passion Vine, Damask, and Red Delicious.

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iPad Sleeve Review: Kensington Reversible Sleeve

This is a hands-on review of Kensington’s Reversible Sleeve for the iPad.

If you’re looking for a simple look, yet durable protection for your iPad, try the Kensington Reversible Sleeve. Made of soft neoprene, this sleeves protects against any scratches and bumps your iPad may encounter. It’s super slim, so it’d fit nicely in another bag or case.

What makes this sleeve special is the fact that it’s reversible. One side is black and the other side is a light gray with black lining. It’s like having two sleeves for the price of one! The gray side does have two tags that you might want to cut off before using. This sleeve is also great for very small netbooks or even the Kindle.

The sleeve is very slim and form-fitting, so I don’t recommend having any other cases attached on the iPad. At most, a very thin hardshell snap-on backing case will fit fine.

You can purchase the Kensington Reversible Sleeve for just $9.99. For more information, see Kensington’s official website.

Disclosure: This product was sent by Kensington for review purposes. This is part of Beatweek Magazine’s coverage of iPad products. Opinions expressed in this article are my own.

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iPad Case Review: Griffin’s Elan Passport Folio

This is a hands-on review of Griffin Technology’s Elan Passport Folio Case for iPad.

Although there are lot of cases in fun and bright colors for the iPad, you may still want to dress it up in a tux now and then. That’s where the Elan Passport Folio Case comes in. It’s a sleek case that gives your iPad a whole new professional look. You look like a businessperson carrying it and it’s perfect for taking into the office. Another benefit is that it conceals the iPad pretty well so people would not know that you’re carrying an iPad. This is good if you don’t want your investment to have “steal me” written all over it. It looks like a daily planner or small paper notebook when closed up.

Putting your iPad into the case is easy. Insert the iPad in on the right side first. The latches on this side do not stretch. The latches on the left side are flexible; stretch them so they hold the iPad in place.

The interior of the Elan Passport Folio is made of a soft gray microsuede lining the protects your iPad from scratches. Credit cards and business cards fit nicely in the 4 pocket inserts on the left flap. There is also a side pocket where you can insert larger sheets of paper into. The portfolio case is closed securely with a strap and insert on the outer front side of the case.

Beside being a great carrying case, I also found multiple uses for it. It could also be used as a digital photo frame, a TV stand, or even a desktop calendar. If you insert the iPad in and flip the covers inside-out, it will stand up. This allows you to display the iPad on your desk. If you use it this way, I would recommend putting a book or something heavy behind the case so it doesn’t slide too far back and fall down.

The Elan Passport Folio Case for iPad by Griffin Technology is available in black (with gray interior) and can be purchased at GriffinTechnology.com for $49.99.

Disclosure: This product was sent by Griffin Technology for review purposes. This is part of Beatweek Magazine’s coverage of iPad products. Opinions expressed in this article are my own.

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