The Brydge Pro+ keyboard adds a trackpad to your iPad Pro
Brydge, a company who makes keyboards and accessories for the iPad and MacBook, has announced that they are preparing to take preorders for the Brydge Pro+ -- a second iteration of the much beloved Brydge Pro keyboard for the iPad.
AppleInsider had taken a look at the original Brydge Pro keyboard and rated it a 4.5 out of 5. We cited the superior build quality, the MacBook-like design, and the great typing experience as the best features, recommending it over Apple's own Smart Keyboard.
Now, Brydge is getting ready to launch the second iteration of the Brydge Pro+. It looks as though the updated version is still going to keep its sleek, MacBook-inspired feel but will gain a few additions to work alongside iPadOS.
Like its predecessor, the Brydge Pro+ will feature a zero to 180 degree viewing angle, a MacBook-inspired keyboard with backlit keys, and Bluetooth connectivity.
New to the Brydge Pro+ is the multi-touch trackpad that takes advantage of iPadOS's new Assistive Touch features. The trackpad features gestures, allowing you to access App Expose, Home Screen, and Dock with ease.
Bridge Pro+ will be available for both the 11-inch and 12.9-inch iPad Pro and will come in Space Gray at launch. The Brydge Pro+ will cost $199.99 for the 11-inch iPad Pro and $229.99 for the 12.9-inch iPad Pro.
The first 500 preorders will ship in late February, with the remaining provers shipping in late march. Those interested can head over to the Brydge website to sign up to receive an email when preorders go live.
AppleInsider had taken a look at the original Brydge Pro keyboard and rated it a 4.5 out of 5. We cited the superior build quality, the MacBook-like design, and the great typing experience as the best features, recommending it over Apple's own Smart Keyboard.
Now, Brydge is getting ready to launch the second iteration of the Brydge Pro+. It looks as though the updated version is still going to keep its sleek, MacBook-inspired feel but will gain a few additions to work alongside iPadOS.
Like its predecessor, the Brydge Pro+ will feature a zero to 180 degree viewing angle, a MacBook-inspired keyboard with backlit keys, and Bluetooth connectivity.
New to the Brydge Pro+ is the multi-touch trackpad that takes advantage of iPadOS's new Assistive Touch features. The trackpad features gestures, allowing you to access App Expose, Home Screen, and Dock with ease.
Bridge Pro+ will be available for both the 11-inch and 12.9-inch iPad Pro and will come in Space Gray at launch. The Brydge Pro+ will cost $199.99 for the 11-inch iPad Pro and $229.99 for the 12.9-inch iPad Pro.
The first 500 preorders will ship in late February, with the remaining provers shipping in late march. Those interested can head over to the Brydge website to sign up to receive an email when preorders go live.
Comments
The continuing absence of a decent third-party smart connector keyboard for iPads -- four years after the intro of the SC -- is both surprising and distressing.
https://www.brydge.com/products/brydge-pro-plus-for-ipad-pro?affiliate_id=90151&click_id=2959333671&utm_source=pepperjam&utm_medium=affiliate&clickId=2959333671
I really do not think the trackpad is necessary when you can just touch the screen.
That price is more than a little high, btw.
As to the Bluetooth, I have no problems with Bluetooth connectivity with mine.
My only real complaint about the Logitech is the case makes power shutdown awkward. The 2 button push Apple uses is a clunker and the case makes getting both pushed a little dodgy.
Finally, these are designed for the current iPad Pro and reportedly there will be a new iPad Pro coming in the spring.
If it’s going to add a lot of weight, I’ll just use my MacBook, thank you.
i don’t like a keyboard case doubling the thickness and weight of my iPad Pro 12.9”.
It will be interesting to see how it compares to the MacBooks. Apple has upgraded the operating system to include many of the necessary features required of a full OS and the main thing lacking was a mouse / trackpad and cursor.
It's very possible the iPad Pro will not only be faster and more powerful but far more flexible because it not only has a touch screen but it can function equally well (actually better!) as a tablet.
This could very easily become THE choice of students.
I have a Logitech folio keyboard for my iPad Pro that uses the smart connector and it's always connected, I never have connectivity issues and I never have to charge it. It's a shame there aren't more options for the smart connector. As apple moved it to the short side with the newer generation of keyboards they actually made it less useful, so unfortunately I expect we won't see any more.
davgreg said: I got my wife a new iPad Air with a bridge keyboard for Christmas and can attest that it's well built with a good feel to it. It's comparable to the Logitech keyboard I have for my iPad Pro. As others have mentioned touching with your finger doesn't cut it if you need fine precision. I like my iPad for a lot of uses and a trackpad would be awesome.
Except iOS is still very clunky and difficult to use for many workflows.
I always buy wired keyboards and trackballs for my Macs for just that reason.
Why couldn't they just have a flat 90° angle USB-C connector for it? And include a couple of USB-C jacks in the thing, too?
Just curious as to who's culpable for the lack of any accessories...