Accessory vendor Logitech on Thursday announced the company’s latest entry in the iPad-keyboard market, the $130 Solar Keyboard Folio for second- and third-generation iPads. A Bluetooth keyboard in a folio-style keyboard case, the Solar Keyboard charges via solar or ambient light, much like Logitech’s Wireless Solar Keyboard K750 for Mac (). Logitech says a fully charged battery can last for up to two years, even in complete darkness, when the keyboard is used for two hours per day.
The Solar Keyboard Folio includes several features that differentiate it from other keyboard folios. For starters, it’s considerably thinner than most competitors, but thanks to keys like those in the company’s Ultrathin Keyboard Cover (), the Solar Keyboard Folio offers a good typing experience. The accessory also provides two prop-up positions, one for typing and the other for watching video or listening to music. In the latter position, which leaves only the bottom row of keys exposed, that row automatically changes to a set of media- and volume-control keys. Finally, in addition to supporting the magnetic sleep/wake feature of second- and third-generation iPad models, closing the folio’s cover turns off the keyboard.
We had a brief hands-on with the Solar Keyboard Folio on Wednesday, and we were impressed by its size, design, and keyboard quality. We’ll have a full review in a few weeks, once we receive a final unit. The company says the Solar Keyboard Folio will be available for sale later this month.