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The cursor looks looks janky even in their own video lol

Looks can be deceiving. I think you're probably just having trouble moving away from the traditional 30+ year arrow pointer that we're all accustomed to. Welcome to the new world. Don't knock it til you try it.

In the video, I noticed the pointer didn't disappear when typing, like happens on macOS. I hope they adopt that behavior. I can't stand the pointer or I-beam remaining visible when typing. That happens on Windows and it gets in the way.
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It's unfortunate that this one has to use Bluetooth, while Apple's and Logitech's new keyboards with trackpads use the smart connector. I wonder why that is. I thought all companies had access to the smart connector now...

Likely because they worked on one architectural design that supports Android tables, too, only with slightly different keys. And then there's using it with the Apple TV or iPhone which don't have the Smart Connector.
 
It's unfortunate that this one has to use Bluetooth, while Apple's and Logitech's new keyboards with trackpads use the smart connector. I wonder why that is. I thought all companies had access to the smart connector now...
Cost.
They are a small company and would be required to pay Apple to use their proprietary connection.
 
For that, you sacrifice these benefits of Apple Magic Keyboard for iPad:

  • Back protection


FYI, the Brydge have a rear magnetic cover :)


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The future:

A full MacOS tablet computer with iPad as an icon.
Switch between the two.
All in one.

awesome

you’re welcome.
 
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I wish they had this in silver...

According to Brydge, they're going to release it in silver sometime after the initial launch with space gray (I'd guess assuming they sell enough).


I keep wondering what the Apple magic keyboard cover will look like when closed. And how much it will weigh?


Yeah, we haven't seen any shots of it closed, and it doesn't seem like it folds around/over, for like a "tablet mode" [?]
 
The way it holds and supports it worries me... I'm paranoid of any bending lol
Their existing keyboard attaches in the same way. It's surprisingly secure. I've been using their 12.9" keyboard for a couple of years (and every time, the lack of a keypad like an iMac is an annoyance).
 
According to Brydge, they're going to release it in silver sometime after the initial launch with space gray (I'd guess assuming they sell enough).





Yeah, we haven't seen any shots of it closed, and it doesn't seem like it folds around/over, for like a "tablet mode" [?]

This does show the whole thing, but you can see how thick it will be. Definitely looks thicker than the current Keyboard Folio. It will be interesting to see how it looks and feels.
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I ordered the Brydge Pro+ right after Apple announced trackpad support in iOS 13.4. I love my current Brydge Pro way more than the Smart Keyboard Folio. Only complaint is you either need to use Brydge’s less-appealing magnetic back cover with their logo facing the correct way, or deal
with a turned Apple logo without the cover.

Also, for what it’s worth, the pic in the article shows an older keyboard model on a regular iPad paired with the Brydge standalone trackpad. Yes, it’s ugly, but way more functional than what Apple Smart Keyboard for the iPad and iPad Air. Brydge on iPad Pro looks WAY better. I’ve gotten many “wait, that’s an iPad?! I thought it was a MacBook” type reactions from people.

I don’t get all the Brydge hate...

EDIT: Oh, and Apple’s $350 keyboard doesn’t have keys for brightness, media controls, locking, home screen, and volume? Nice! Love to see it!
Same. My conversation with people would be along the lines of:

People: "Oh wow! I didn't know Apple made laptops with touchscreens. That's pretty cool."

Me: "Nah. This is actually an iPad."

People: "Are you serious?!"

Me: "Yeah." *swipes up to show iPad OS homepage*

People: "That's so cool. It looks like an actual laptop."
 
It's unfortunate that this one has to use Bluetooth, while Apple's and Logitech's new keyboards with trackpads use the smart connector. I wonder why that is. I thought all companies had access to the smart connector now...

I'm guessing it's a cost saving measure and it would be cheaper to use off the shelf components and put it an iPad sized form factor.
 
yeah, eventually, but not with 6 gigs of ram

I foresee iOS eventually being good enough to handle the needs of the majorly of users (ie: the casual users). More heavy / niche needs will still be handled by the Mac. This way, iOS doesn’t need to be burdened by having to cater to the nerds of a small group of power users, which should go a long way towards keeping it lean and light.
 
I just checked their site, and they really lowered the price by a lot. I’m on record with a pre order at $350 for this and now they show it for $230. I imagine Apple scared them into such a large drop. I wonder whether they can make much on it at this new pricing.
 
I foresee iOS eventually being good enough to handle the needs of the majorly of users (ie: the casual users). More heavy / niche needs will still be handled by the Mac. This way, iOS doesn’t need to be burdened by having to cater to the nerds of a small group of power users, which should go a long way towards keeping it lean and light.
So you don’t see professional apps like logic, andFinal Cut coming to the Mac Pro? Too Nerdy?
 
I just checked their site, and they really lowered the price by a lot. I’m on record with a pre order at $350 for this and now they show it for $230. I imagine Apple scared them into such a large drop. I wonder whether they can make much on it at this new pricing.
What are you looking at for just $230?
 
So you don’t see professional apps like logic, andFinal Cut coming to the Mac Pro? Too Nerdy?

Too small a market.

I am not sure that Apple needs to be the one to bring these apps to market. When they released iMovie for ios (and subsequently made it free), they indirectly signalled to the market that a quality productivity app was only worth so much. Which in turn made long-term sustainability a challenge.

I also think that power apps such as Final Cut Pro are too niche, and better handled by developers. On Apple’s part, what they could do is work more closely with them to address pain points or help make their business model more sustainable.

To use an analogy, it’s like the default podcast app vs overcast. I think it’s safe to say that Overcast definitely goes for pro features that Apple has traditionally said no to - possibly out of fear that they would over-serve or complicate the Podcasts app. I also think that given its small share of the market, Overcast ends up having a bit more freedom to experiment whereas Apple's dominant market share in podcast listening ends up adding some friction to major changes.

In short, third party developers have more freedom in targeting niche markets (which would still represent a significant market for them) compared to Apple, which tends to address the mass market more.
 
or just buy a macbook air.

This ipad + keyboard/trackpad combo seems pointless for the price point IMO.

Not unless the Air starts running iOS... I prefer my iOS workflow.
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I just checked their site, and they really lowered the price by a lot. I’m on record with a pre order at $350 for this and now they show it for $230. I imagine Apple scared them into such a large drop. I wonder whether they can make much on it at this new pricing.

What country are you preordering from? They’ve always been the current price in the States. I like Brydge a lot. Used several of their keyboards and have been watching this one since day one of preorders. Prices are the same.
 
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Brydge Pro+ has two obvious advantages:
  • 6th function keys row with media and system controls
  • $100-120 cheaper
For that, you sacrifice these benefits of Apple Magic Keyboard for iPad:
  • USB-C port
  • Floating cantilever design
  • Back protection
  • Caps lock indicator
  • No need to charge separately
Subjectively speaking, since neither are available for hands on use, Apple's solution just seems more stable and easier to attach and detach.

Media controls are nice but I still think Apple’s Magic Keyboard solution is much better for the long run. Will preorder once available to do so. Wish it was cheaper though.
 
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