Yowza, the iPad 2’s built-in case is pretty nifty. We’re trying not to swarm you with OMG APple, but seriously, check out how they’re solving a design issue AND making a shrewd business grab.
The sleeve, attached with a built-in hinge, closes tight to the front of the iPad, thanks to magnets. But then, it peels away to become a support for either typing mode or screen-viewing mode.
The covers will be $39 for a plastic version, and $69 for a leather version — and, if you think this is a mere cosmetic change, think again. The iPad and iPhone peripheral markets are worth billions upon billions. Stealing that thunder and creating a high-margin peripheral ingeniously integrated with the device is as savvy a business move as a design move. We bet that integrated case costs about $1 to make, making it possible the highest margin piece of plastic in the world.
This piece of plastic makes me want an iPad, finally.
