Now I've seen it all. I've been looking for a rugged iPad case that can withstand my occasional clumsiness, and give me peace of mind when I let my kids play with my iPad. But I also wanted something that felt good in my hand, with a rubberized grip. Not to be a dreamer, but an extended battery would be great, so I don't have to always plug in my iPad at night. And a built-in stand would be nice.
IvyCase has just announced a solution. The SmartCase(TM) will be shipping this summer, for $100, and it addresses all of the above. It has some novel approaches to ruggedized design. Instead of a sticky screen protector or thin plastic covering, it has a sheet of glass (with a one year warranty) and offers Touch-Thru(TM) technology. Instead of leaving an opening to touch the Home, volume and on/off buttons, they superimpose their own tactile buttons with Click-Thru(TM) technology. They also have a 3000mA battery built-in, much like a Mophie JuicePak that promises to double battery life. The custom SureGrip(TM) is a rubberized and there is a fold out ClickStand(TM) as well, delivering 12 different angles. That's a lot of homegrown technology, not to mention trademarks!
IvySkin offers versions without the battery, for $70, but with the same ruggedized protection.
I will have to see it in person to believe it, but it sounds interesting. The cases are available in black, white, or royal blue and can be ordered now from http://www.IvySkin.com. Cases will be shipping in June or July so I will have to see if they are not too heavy and if the battery life is as good as they say.
