The most expensive Kickstart Project that Judie and I have backed just got funded. (Okay, “over-funded if there is such a thing”.)
The Brydge is
an elegant solution to the lack of quality iPad keyboards and accessories currently on the market. Brydge connects to your iPad using a patent-pending hinge which allows for close to 180 degrees of iPad positioning and holds your iPad secure.
In other words, it turns your iPad into a NetMac complete with speakers and all. As the Creatives note
Brydge’s aluminum body is machined and anodized so that it matches the look and feel of the iPad precisely. When paired together Brydge and your iPad appear to be two parts of the same device, blending style and functionality seamlessly. Unlike other products made of painted plastic in an effort to look similar to the iPad, Brydge does not fake it. Not only does it look good, but when held in your hands you can feel the quality craftsmanship Apple lovers demand.
Brydge’s patent-pending hinge holds the iPad secure and allows for close to 180 degrees of positioning. While many stands offer a non-adjustable ledge to lean your iPad up against, Brydge’s hinge allows you to position your iPad at nearly any angle, even allowing you to close it up entirely for easy transportation. Once closed, both your iPad and Brydge go to sleep automatically.
The goal was $90,000 but the team raised almost $800,000 by the time it was funded just a short while ago. Judie and I both backed at the $210 level. That means we will each get a Brydge with speakers when it ships in the late fall. Best of all, the creatives recently let us know that they will be designing the Bydge with upgradable hinges so the accessory will last past the release of the iPad 4!
No doubt we will be using our iPads with this accessory at CES come January. Read more here.