If you've seen my twitter feed recently, you may have already read this article; however, you may not have realized the impact the new NoteBookCase for iPad2 could have on the education world.
Steve Jobs, before he passed away, had been steering Apple towards education with iTunesU, iBooks, and even just the beginnings of the AppStore, and this new case could solidify Apple's presence as the dominant machine on campuses everywhere.
The case, which was originally reported by Japanese blog Macotakara and then made waves on Mashable, transforms the iPad into a mini-macBook Pro. It boasts a full size bluetooth keyboard, lithium battery for extended use, a USB and a mini USB port.
This only leaves a single question: could this case be compatible with the newest iPad? The miniscule size difference gives me pause; but, it is possible it could work, even if there is a disclaimer on the purchasing sites stating that it is not, in fact, compatible with the newest iPad.
With the 64GB iPad being the largest, and most expensive when you add all accessories to the price, a $75 (USD) case that both protects your iPad and gives it a new life as a mini-macBook, presents a more cost-effective option for students everywhere. With App Developers having made it possible for us to purchase the same product suites for $10 (USD) or less that we have with our laptops, it makes sense for students to use the iPad instead of a laptop, if purely from a fiscal perspective.
The case is available for purchase on Amazon and Japanese retailer Rakuten.
I know I'm curious to see how this does in the American market.
