Brydge keyboard cases for Apple's 2018 iPad Pro up for preorder
Accessory maker Brydge this week opened the pre-order process for the long-awaited keyboard cases for Apple's 2018 iPad Pro, including both the 11- and 12.9 inch formats.

The 11-inch keyboard case.
Each aluminum case connects to an iPad via Bluetooth, and has three-level backlit keys that resemble the layout of a MacBook, with the addition of dedicated iOS shortcuts. An included cover protects an iPad's back. While in the case an iPad can be rotated up to 180 degrees for typing at multiple angles.
Brydge is aiming to ship the first cases on April 15, priced at $149.99 for 11 inches and $169.99 for 12.9 inches, with silver or space gray color options. Only the first 1,000 preorders will actually get a case on the 15th however.

The 12.9-inch model.
AppleInsider is at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas from Jan. 8 through Jan. 11, where we're expecting 5G devices, HomeKit, 8K monitors and more. Keep up with our coverage by downloading the AppleInsider app, and follow us on YouTube, Twitter @appleinsider and Facebook for live, late-breaking coverage. You can also check out our official Instagram account for exclusive photos throughout the event.

The 11-inch keyboard case.
Each aluminum case connects to an iPad via Bluetooth, and has three-level backlit keys that resemble the layout of a MacBook, with the addition of dedicated iOS shortcuts. An included cover protects an iPad's back. While in the case an iPad can be rotated up to 180 degrees for typing at multiple angles.
Brydge is aiming to ship the first cases on April 15, priced at $149.99 for 11 inches and $169.99 for 12.9 inches, with silver or space gray color options. Only the first 1,000 preorders will actually get a case on the 15th however.

The 12.9-inch model.
AppleInsider is at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas from Jan. 8 through Jan. 11, where we're expecting 5G devices, HomeKit, 8K monitors and more. Keep up with our coverage by downloading the AppleInsider app, and follow us on YouTube, Twitter @appleinsider and Facebook for live, late-breaking coverage. You can also check out our official Instagram account for exclusive photos throughout the event.
Comments
It's quite shocking -- and annoying -- to me that we still do not have decent third-party Smart Connector keyboards, and the choice effectively comes down the ugly-dark-gray-feel-like-I-am-tapping-the-table-overpriced abomination that Apple sells.
Anyone have a good explanation for why?
I remain far more interested in a clamshell laptop running macOS and Apples in-house silicon, than continuing to wait for iOS's limitations to be slowly removed.
And look at all that space for a trackpad!