The virtual keyboard of the iPad Pro provides a very limited typing experience as it takes up half of the display and becomes problematic for long periods of typing. With iPad OS, Apple has introduced new features that allow the iPad to operate more like a MacBook. For instance, the iPad OS now supports mouse input, which allows you to increase your productivity when used with an external keyboard. This is where Libra comes in, it is a “Bluetooth keyboard with backlight, trackpad and function keys to provide a user experience like a MacBook, without sacrificing the advantages of a tablet.”
Libra
Libra is compatible with iPad Pro 9.7″, 10.5″, 11″ and 12.9″. It offers quick setup, macbook style design, and easy to use functionality with a built-in trackpad. The keyboard features aluminum housing to match the Apple iPad Pro with space grey and silver color. When attached to the iPad, it looks similar to the full-sized MacBook.
The most important feature of the LIbra keyboard is the built-in trackpad, which the group claims to be the world’s first keyboard with such feature. The trackpad offers MacBook like gesture and touch control like Scroll, Zoom In/Out, Swipe. In addition to the trackpad, the Libra keyboard also offers function keys in a dedicated row, which allows you to adjust the volume and screen brightness. There are also keys for shortcuts to switch language, copy/paste, search, home, play/pause, and Lock.
The keyboard also features adjustable backlit keys with three levels of brightness to make typing in the dark easier. The RGB backlight allows you to have multiple colors of backlighting effect. The keys feature scissor-switch structure to mimic the same size and shape of the keyboard on Apple’s last generation MacBook Pro. The keyboard hinge allows you to adjust the iPad from 0-120 degrees for different viewing angles.
The Libra keyboard runs on a 4000mAh built-in battery, which allows you to use it for up to 200 days per charge. In addition, it can also work as a charger for your iPad/iPhone through the USB C output port in an emergency.
The Libra keyboard also comes with snap-on magnetic cover for the 12.9-inch iPad Pro and a case for 9.7, 10.5, and 11-inch iPad Pro to protect your iPad Pro from scratches and dents.
The competition
The Libra competes with Brydge and Slim Folio Pro as they all feature a keyboard for the iPad Pro. The main features of the Libra keyboard that sets it apart include price, trackpad, and ports. The Libra has an advantage in terms of lower price, built-in trackpad, higher version of Bluetooth, RGB backlighting, and dual USB-C ports.
Pricing and Availability
The Libra keyboard will be available for 12.9-inch iPad Pro (1st/2nd/3rd gen), 9.7/10.5-inch iPad Pro (2nd gen) and 11-inch iPad Pro (3rd gen). The Libra is currently available to order on Kickstarter for $109 (early bird price of $89 is all sold out) and comes with a one-year guarantee. With the Libra keyboard, you also get a USB-C cable, and Magnetic cover or case for your iPad.
Source: Kickstarter
I am officially a tech addict and enjoy providing my views on matters related to this industry. I am always interested in trying out new tech gadgets and I have owned multiple smartphones including the legendary HTC One, SGS2, Nexus 4, iPhone 4, 5S, 6S, XR, Note 9. You can ask me any tech related questions in the comment section or on twitter @hookedNav