The price tag is the best part

Somehow, OnLive Desktop is free. It doesn’t cost a dime to download the app from the App Store, and there’s no subscription service to sign up for. The app also doesn’t require you to own a copy of Windows, as do Mac virtualization apps like Parallels and VMware. Windows 7 is already set up and running on OnLive’s remote servers. All you have to do is sign up for a free OnLive account (or use an existing one if you already signed up for OnLive’s gaming service) and connect.

Better than remote desktop apps, local virtualization software

Despite OnLive Desktop is working over an Internet connection talking to servers miles away (likely hundreds of miles in my case), it performs better than any remote desktop apps I’ve used on my own local Wi-Fi network. There’s very little lag; apps open and close speedily; and documents, spreadsheets and presentations are already setup by default to save to a synced folder, which auto-syncs at regular, frequent intervals.

In terms of setup time and ease of use, OnLive Desktop beats out both remote desktop apps and virtualization software running locally on Macs, in my opinion. This is especially true if your intended use is light editing of documents you need to access right away when away from home, since you can download from and upload to a web interface at files.onlive.com for your specific synced OnLive Documents folder.
 

Limited in scope, but should hit the right notes for most

OnLive Desktop has some limitations your own local installations of Windows won’t, however. Any changes you make to app or system settings won’t be there the next time you log in, for instance; OnLive does this to ensure speedy connections and easy jump-in, jump-out functionality for all users.

You also can’t install new programs or access anything beyond what OnLive provides, so this definitely isn’t a solution for Windows-based gaming. Still, those pre-installed apps include Word, Excel and PowerPoint 2010, as well as Windows Media Player and some basic utilities. You can’t access Internet Explorer, which would be a nice touch for people working remotely who have to access IE-only enterprise dashboards, for instance.

Finally, there’s the issue of not being able to use the iPad’s own software keyboard. Instead, you’ll get the Windows 7 on-screen keyboard. It pales in comparison to the Apple version, but it’s usable nonetheless. Also, know that if you exit the app mid-edit, you won’t be able to save your document when you jump back in, even if it resumes with the document open.

Despite those limitations, OnLive probably provides what the vast majority of its target audience requires: a quick and easy way to edit Office docs on the go. The extremely high-quality Windows Media Player streaming playback and other perks like the ability to use the touch-optimized Microsoft Surface Collage app, are just are icing on the cake.

Microsoft’s Office iPad apps are here

With Bluetooth keyboard support and the ability to connect over 3G (OnLive disconnects you after 10 minutes when connected this way, but that’s plenty of time to accomplish minor edits on the fly), I see little reason to go elsewhere for Office-compatible document editing. Plus, if this app eventually gets an upgrade to the tablet-optimized Windows 8, it should be even more touch-friendly.

Rumors occasionally crop up that Microsoft is working on dedicated Office apps for the iPad. With OnLive Desktop, I find myself happy to wait for Microsoft to take as long as it wants to get its act together.

Related research and analysis from GigaOM Pro:
Subscriber content. Sign up for a free trial.

• 2012: Data, spectrum and the race to LTE
• Virtual Worlds: Trends and Opportunities
• Why the Mac is infiltrating the enterprise

Super Stickman Golf ($0.99 Universal) is a sports game that plays more like a platformer. As in other golf games, you use your club to hit a tiny little golf ball into a hole that is so far away you need a flag in order to see where it is located.  The big difference here is that each golf course is designed more like a level from a Mario game than something you’d see on the PGA tour.

The scoring system is familiar as well, since it works just like golf. Get the golf ball into the hole in less than par for the entire course, and you’re awarded by unlocking various power ups and additional courses. If you do either get a little impatient or come up against a frustrating level that you can’t get past, you can always go to the Pro Shop and purchase unlocks for all courses and power ups. What you can’t buy are all of the seemingly impossible Game Center achievements, like scoring less than zero on a given hole.

You only have one club, but you choose the angle and direction you want to hit the ball in, and then choose the power applied to the stroke. Power-ups earn you special golf balls. For example, with the super ball you can make those extra long shots, and with air brakes you can stop a flying shot mid-air and have it drop straight down onto the green.  Without learning when and how to use the power ups you earn, even attempting to achieve par on some courses would be impossible.

In multiplayer mode you can challenge your Game Center friends, or play against someone on the local network or over Bluetooth. You can either start a new foursome or choose to join one that already exists. As the host, you can accept or reject players that want to join your foursome. Another perk of hosting is that your choose which course to play.  Each player can play through at their own pace, and the game will keep score for you.

With over two hundred unique holes to play, Noodlecake Studios has committed to keeping the game fresh by investing in new content. That should help ensure the game stays fresh in the longer term.

Related research and analysis from GigaOM Pro:
Subscriber content. Sign up for a free trial.

• Connected Consumer Q2: Digital music meets the cloud; e-book growth explodes
• Mobile Q2: Smartphone growth surges; iPad’s rule continues
• How to Market Your iPhone App: A Developer’s Guide

1. Get the right tunes

Whatever music source you use, get in the groove during your workouts. My favorite right now is Pandora radio, since I find variety an excellent motivator when working out.
A good set of Bluetooth headphones is also probably a wise investment, since they prevent cords from getting caught during activity. My favorite right now is the Jabra Sport. Not only does it do audio and voice, but it also does FM so I can tune into the TV audio at the gym.

I also recommend Yurbuds. You send Yurbuds a picture of your ear and they match a product for a near perfect fit. The plastic molding is grippy and stays in your ears even while sweating. They also channel the sound directly into your ear and block out some of the background noise.

2. Track what you eat

Start with small steps tracking what you eat simply by taking a picture. Mealsnap is great for this. Being aware of what you eat and making it a habit is a great place to start.

When you’ve got that habit and want to start counting calories, the Lose It! app is a good choice. While I’m still a big fan of Livestrong’s calorie tracker, the excessive ads and upsells on their website became a turn off. Lose It! is free and has a clean, simple interface. It also can give you reminders if you don’t log meals.

Another key feature of Lose It! is that it can interact with other devices, such as the Withings WiFi Body scale and the Fitbit (more about that later).

3. Track what you do

Eating is only one side of the weight loss equation. How much you burn (or don’t burn) in a given day is the reason why the person next to you eats so much and stays slim, while you just even look at a bagel and gain three pounds. Both Lose It! and Livestrong Calorie Tracker will allow you to enter exercises, but don’t take into account more passive daily activities. While a pedometer will help, why use analog when digital is more fun?

The FitBit tracker ($99) is at heart a pedometer, but with added features. It tracks how many steps you take and uses your basal metabolic rate to determine how many calories you’re burning. The FitBit also uses gamification techniques, such as badge rewards you can tweet and share on Facebook, to keep you motivated. It can also be used as a clock and a stopwatch to track your workout routines.

I also like the fact you can get instant readouts to check your goals with the Fitbit; when you see you’re a few steps short of your daily goal you might decide to take that far away parking spot, or take the stairs instead of the elevator. Best of all, FitBit integrates with Lose It! so that way your activities and food log are shared between the two programs, giving you much more accurate results.

4. Break through the plateau with monitoring

Often, people attempting weight loss will hit a plateau. I faced that simply because my body adapted to the changes in my routine. The way to break through is not to look simply at your level of activity, but also at how hard your body is working.

The new Garmin ANT+ adapter for the iPhone along with the Garmin Fit App is a great way to do that. ANT+ is a widely adopted standard for monitoring devices, and in particular heart monitors. Some trainers have them, or you can purchase them independently. With a heart monitor you can determine exactly how hard your exercises are, and set accurate goals regarding heart rate and calories burned. That digital readout on the treadmill or elliptical is only an estimate, while a heart monitor combined with data you provide it can give you a much more accurate accounting of how hard you’re working.

The Garmin iPhone app keeps data for each session so you can compare. Some days I focus on distance, or pace on others, and always try to keep my heart rate in the zone. As I became more physically fit, I had to push myself harder to keep the same results. Gamification of weight loss through statistics helped me quickly punch through the plateau by changing my workouts.

5. Get a good night’s sleep

Let’s face it, if you don’t get a good night’s sleep, you don’t feel like tracking your food and you don’t feel like working out. Your Mac can help with that.

The free program F.Lux will dim your Mac’s monitor to match sundown and sunrise, thereby giving you visual clues it’s evening. Bright light says “wake up” while gentle reduction in brightness says “it’s time for bed.” I also wrote about how to use parental controls to keep you on task, and force you to stop working at a specified period of time. If you really want to focus yourself, turn off the Internet on your Mac at a scheduled hour.

For tracking your sleep, you can see my round-up of hardware devices here. The FitBit also tracks sleep. You can then use the sleep data to help you focus on why you had a “good” or a “bad” day.You can then modify your eating habits and workout schedule to achieve better sleep results.

You can also use apps like Pzizz to help you feel mor restful. The software generates unique “sound journeys” to help you transition from hectic day to gentle night.

If your sleeping partner doesn’t want to hear these sounds, there’s a solution. First you need some SleepPhones. This soft headband includes a set of integrated speakers and can plug directly into a headphone jack. Then attach a BlueBridge mini-jack RX to the SleepPhones. Now you’ve got an effective wireless solution for nighttime audio that won’t endanger your partner’s rest or your Apple gear.

Got any tips of your own for using your Apple devices to meet your fitness goals? Let us know in the comments.

Disclaimer: This isn’t medical advice, just one Apple enthusiast’s perspective and vendors mentioned provided items for review. Always check with your medical professional before starting an exercise program.

Related research and analysis from GigaOM Pro:
Subscriber content. Sign up for a free trial.

• Connected world: the consumer technology revolution
• Mobile Q2: Smartphone growth surges; iPad’s rule continues

iPhone

Apple’s next iPhone is one many probably feel we’ve already seen in previews, since the rumor mill prior to the release of the iPhone 4S was focused more on the so-called iPhone 5. A lot of what was said about that device should probably come to pass when we do get a new iPhone next year, which Apple could well call the iPhone 5.

A release in fall is probably in the cards, since Apple would gain little by releasing a new iPhone in the early summer so soon after unveiling the iPhone 4S, so it’s hard to pin down anything definite about the device at this point; a lot can change in mobile in nearly a year, after all. But there are a few safe bets regarding Apple’s next smartphone.

First, expect an A6 processor, possibly quad-core, powering the device. Also, a larger screen and a new physical case design are almost guaranteed. I don’t think Apple would go the route of the Android-makers with anything gigantic, but a respectable 4-inch display seems likely. And while LTE still isn’t a guarantee, it’s a good bet for 2012. Near-field communication (NFC) is less certain to make the cut, since that tech still has a long way to go before (if) it goes mainstream.

iPod

Making predictions about Apple’s iPod line is definitely tough. The media player got virtually no changes in 2011 compared to 2010, and its impact on Apple’s overall revenue picture continues to dwindle. The iPod touch is still an important part of the lineup, but even its future might become a question sometime in the next couple of years.

In 2012, I see Apple finally putting its iPod classic to rest, and maybe the shuffle, too. The iPod touch will likely get the spec bump it missed this year, bringing it closer to the current iPhone 4S in terms of wireless radios and processing power, and possibly a physical redesign, too. The real question mark, and maybe Apple’s greatest opportunity to shake up the media player market, is the iPod nano.

Users have been looking for an update that brings Bluetooth on-board with the diminutive nano, making it compatible with wireless headphones (better when worn on the wrist) and possibly enabling a live data connection between it and the iPhone. I suspect that Apple skipped a proper update for the nano this year because it’s actually working on making the nano the perfect connected companion for the iPhone, thanks to Bluetooth 4.0 tech, but we’ll see in 2012 whether or not that’s the case.

iPad

Rumors about the iPad 3 are already swirling, since it seems on track for an early 2012 release. I think we’ll see it arrive around the same time as last year’s iPad 2, so between February and March, complete with the Retina Display users have been looking for since the iPhone 4′s release.

What else will the iPad 3 offer? That’s a good question, and one that hasn’t really been addressed all that much in early reports. Its features will be dictated largely by what the market demands, which shouldn’t be much judging by the current tablet market picture. In 2011, Apple ruled the tablet market without a real competitor in sight. In 2012, it will have low-cost alternatives nipping at its heels, but it still isn’t looking at any competitors who are truly shaking up the space.

As a result, I’d expect to see an iPad 3 that resembles its predecessor in most regards, with the aforementioned improved screen, as well as a slimmer design and maybe a longer lasting battery. Apple has the right recipe for success in other regards, and the iPad 3 isn’t really crying out for camera improvements or additional wireless tech. Adoption of Bluetooth 4.0 is probably also on tap, as well as an upgraded A6 processor, but I wouldn’t expect much else.

Instead of making dramatic changes or additions to the iPad, expect Apple to offer a low-cost option in the form of the iPad 2, likely limited to either 8 or 16 GB of onboard storage. And as much as I and Kevin admire the smaller, 7-inch form factor, I think Apple might keep that one in reserve for at least another year.

Macs

In 2012, iDevices won’t be the only devices getting big upgrades. Apple’s Mac division is still a big revenue driver for the company, and in the new year I expect them to focus on the products that will have the biggest role in the future of computing. The MacBook Air is the crucial device here, but iMacs, too, should be in for big changes.

The MacBook Air is Apple’s most forward-looking Mac, and it has plenty of room to grow. In 2011, the 11- and 13-inch form factors got even better thanks to much-needed processor upgrades and the addition of Thunderbolt tech. In 2012, I expect Apple to expand the line as it moves to push aside the MacBook Pro in terms of its importance to Apple’s notebook offerings. So a 15-inch Air is likely, as well as more substantial improvements to the 11- and 13-inch devices, aimed at shoring up their remaining weaknesses: battery life and storage. Higher resolution displays are another definite possibility.

As Apple’s strongest desktop product, expect iMacs to get significant updates in 2012, both externally and on the inside, too. The current iMac case design is getting a little long in the tooth, and is overdue for an update. Intel has new processors that will likely make their way into Macs in the works, and we should see them in the second quarter of 2012, so expect new iMacs around then, too. Other changes might include high-res displays like those that could make their way to the notebook line, and solid state storage as the default option on some models.

As to the rest of the Mac line, I’d expect to see upgrades for the Mac mini, but not necessarily any big improvements for the Mac Pro. Apple is clearly focusing on consumer products, and it could let its more powerful desktops languish again as a result.

Apple TV

It’s the last big question mark for Apple’s 2012 plans, the mythical iTV. I think we’ll see Apple make its move here, and introduce a television set late in the year, complete with a full App Store, Siri controls and iCloud support. Whether or not we’ll see its set-top Apple TV gets a similar upgrade strikes me as less certain, but since it could act as a gateway device the way the iPod touch does for the iPhone and iPad, I think we’ll see that, too.

This is the rough roadmap I see in place for Apple’s 2012 product plans. Predicting Apple’s plans is likely a fool’s game, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t fun. Let us know what you think is coming out of Cupertino in the comments.

Related research and analysis from GigaOM Pro:
Subscriber content. Sign up for a free trial.

• Connected world: the consumer technology revolution
• Flash analysis: Steve Jobs
• 2012: Data, spectrum and the race to LTE

To get started, you need to pair your headset with your iPad. In the Settings app, navigate to “General” and select “Bluetooth.” Make sure that Bluetooth is turned on, and at that point initiate your headset’s pairing mode. With the Jawbone ERA, you perform what is referred to as a “Double ShakeShake” to activate the pairing mode (a single “ShakeShake” is two quick successive shakes of the device), but you other headsets use different methods, like a long press of the power button. Once paired, you’re ready to use your headset with almost any audio app on the iPad. Here are four popular choices:

FaceTime. This was the first app I tried out and it worked perfectly on the first attempt.  The Bluetooth headset is treaded similar to  AirPlay devices, in the sources list. The only issue is that I noticed that I could not do was answer and hang up the call with the controls on the headset.

Skype. With Skype, the Bluetooth headset once connected will be enabled by default. Call quality was good on both ends in test calls. The added advantage of using Skype over FaceTime is that you have access to all of your Skype contacts, and you can place traditional ‘land line’ calls to any plain old telephone number if you have a paid account.

Google Voice (via Talkatone). With Talkatone, you can make calls using your Google Voice account and the Bluetooth headset worked like a charm.You can also use Google Voice to place calls to any traditional phone number. The difference here is that you can’t make video calls.

Unfortunately, you can’t answer calls with a Bluetooth headset using any of the apps above, even when they can receive calls running in background mode. Still, it definitely beats holding your iPad to your ear or always using speakerphone mode when talking to people through iPad voice and video chat apps.

Related research and analysis from GigaOM Pro:
Subscriber content. Sign up for a free trial.

• Connected Consumer Q2: Digital music meets the cloud; e-book growth explodes
• The Future of Workplaces
• Why iPad 2 Will Lead Consumers Into the Post-PC Era

Belkin LiveAction Camera Grip ($49.99)

The Camera Grip is a simple slide-on accessory that basically makes the iPhone a little more usable as a traditional camera by adding a more grippy, larger hand-hold for iPhone 4/4S and iPod touch owners, as well as dedicated photo and video shutter buttons. There’s also a standard 1/4-inch tripod adapter in the bottom of the grip, and a dock connector that allow the hardware shutter buttons to communicate to Belkin’s LiveAction camera app.

Cleverly designed with a spring-loaded bracket to hold iPhones snugly, even when they’re in a protective case or skin, the Camera Grip definitely succeeds at its goal of making it easier to hold your iOS device like a camera and snap photos. But it comes with some limitations that might seriously disappoint mobile photographers. The shutter buttons only work in the LiveAction app, for instance, which means you won’t be able to use Apple’s own camera app, Camera+ or the photo taking part of Instagram.

Also, while it’s nice that the Camera Grip doesn’t require any batteries and is relatively small, it adds a significant amount of bulk to the iPhone or iPod touch, and also isn’t so small as to be able to be stowed comfortably in a pocket. In short, it adds a lot of the downsides of a point-and-shoot while offering few advantages, especially now that iOS 5 supports using the volume up button as a hardware shutter. The tripod mount is nice, but other accessories, like the Glif, do the job cheaper and with a smaller footprint.

Belkin LiveAction Camera Remote ($49.99)

The Remote, on the other hand, offers a pretty unique set of features for iPhone photographers, and in a package that’s remarkably well-designed for mobile-minded users. It features a Bluetooth-powered remote shutter control unit, with a clever support stand that fits neatly into the remote unit for easy storage. The two-part design manages to still be small enough that it doesn’t feel cumbersome in the front pocket of a pair of jeans.

Again, the Remote works only with the Belkin LiveAction app, but in this case that’s not as much of an issue, since you’ll be using the remote in cases where you’re taking a self-portrait, night shot or some other situation where speed isn’t key, but properly setting up the shot is.

Since the Remote uses Bluetooth, it also doesn’t necessarily require line-of-sight, as do many IR-based DSLR camera remotes. That makes it very handy, since you can keep the remote itself out of shots when taking pictures you also happen to be in.

Remote capabilities definitely expand the scope of the iPhone’s potential as a camera significantly; combined with things like the Olloclip, for instance, you can take pretty excellent macro photos without worrying about shutter shake. Also, there’s a dedicated video shutter button, so switching from a distance between still and moving picture recording is a breeze.

One last thing I liked about the Belkin LiveAction Remote: it works as a play/pause remote for music playback on your iPhone or iPod touch when the LiveAction camera app isn’t active. Comes in handy when you’ve got your iPhone docked in your home stereo.

Both getting and missing the point

The LiveAction accessories are then a mixed bag. On the one hand, the Camera Grip seems to miss much of what makes mobile photography fun; it adds bulk, reduces portability and offers little additional functionality in return. The Camera Remote, on the other hand, is exactly what iPhone photographers are looking for: a product that addresses a functionality gap without affecting the iPhone’s general mobility or necessitating a camera bag. Your needs may vary, but for my money, the LiveAction remote paired with a Glif, GorillaMobile and Olloclip is hard to beat in terms of a mobile photography kit that covers all the bases.

Related research and analysis from GigaOM Pro:
Subscriber content. Sign up for a free trial.

• 2012: Data, spectrum and the race to LTE
• Connected world: the consumer technology revolution
• Flash analysis: Steve Jobs

Workout advantages that work well in any situation

The Jaybird Freedom is designed to be used during strenuous physical activity. That’s why they’re sweat-proof, a claim Jaybird backs with a lifetime warranty. That’s also why they feature unique, removable silicon cushions to prevent in-ear shifting. With three sizes of ear buds, three sizes of silicon cushions, and even a pair of over-ear loops, you’re bound to be able to come up with a combination that suits your ear shape.

For me, the largest buds and in-ear cushions were what worked, and they worked very well. Once secured in my ears, the Freedoms weren’t going anywhere, either on the treadmill or bundled up and out for a brisk winter run with the dog. I’m very picky about the fit of in-ear headsets, and the Jaybird manages to satisfy my needs in terms of security and comfort, in a package that also doesn’t make you look like a total weirdo.

Both the stability and the water resistance are awesome features in and out of the gym, and alone already make the Freedom one of the better choices among stereo Bluetooth headsets in general.

Good sound for music

The other component the Jaybird Freedom has that isn’t necessarily true of the competition is very good sound for music playback. There’s a surprising amount of basebass for a Bluetooth headset, but with rich sound overall, without venturing into muddy territory as some sport-oriented headphones can tend to do in pursuit of more pulse-pounding sound delivery.
 

Not so great call quality

Audio when using the headset for calls with an iPhone wasn’t great, particularly on the receiving end. I suspect that’s because of the mic’s location (it’s on the right pod very close to your ear — and far from your mouth). Even though it couldn’t compete with wired headsets in this regard, or with the Motorola S9-HD (which I choose for comparison over the S10-HD, which has sound quality issues in general), which I’ve used while riding a bike and still been perfectly understood, it isn’t bad enough that the Freedom is unusable for making calls. Since the Freedom is more about providing a wireless, water-resistant solution for taking to the gym, sub-par call quality doesn’t greatly bother me.

Good battery life and connectivity

The Jaybird Freedom may not beat the competition when it comes to call quality, but it does over decent battery life (at around six hours per charge) and better-than-average Bluetooth connectivity. When used outdoors, Bluetooth can be tricky with a handset stowed in a pocket and ear phones worn on the head; indoors it has lots to bounce off of, making connections easier. In wide open spaces, it might have trouble connecting, especially if there’s a big chunk of human meat in the way.

Luckily, I found that with the Freedom I could keep my iPhone in my front pocket and still have it connect pretty much constantly to the headset. The same couldn’t be said for the S9-HD, since its Bluetooth transmitter is in the neckband of the device, behind your head. The Jaybird is better designed for general use, but if you ever do run into trouble, say in a gym in a large open space, using a right arm-mounted iPhone strap when working pretty much guarantees a solid connection. They also work great with an iPad mounted to fitness equipment with the Scosche fitRAIL I reviewed earlier.

Controls take some getting used to

The controls on the Jaybird Freedom aren’t intuitive for iPhone users; the call answer button does indeed start and pause playback, but double tapping it won’t skip tracks. That’s handled by a long press of the volume up button instead. Holding volume down likewise goes back a track. Volume up/down works on the headset, independent of the iPhone, which is actually a plus in my book.

You can use Siri with the Freedom, the same way you would on most other headsets, by holding down the play/pause/answer call button for a few seconds. It works well enough, although the sub-par mic quality I mentioned above affects Siri’s ability to accurately understand requests.

Overall, I’d say the Jaybird Freedom is arguably the best Bluetooth headset available right now, especially for an MSRP of $99. The one really annoying thing about them is that Jaybird uses a proprietary USB cable to charge the device, since the port on the right earbud it plugs into has to be small to ensure everything fits in the space available. Considering how much I enjoy the headphones themselves, that just means I’ll have to be extra careful not to lose that particular component, but you can bet I’ll buy a replacement if I do.

Related research and analysis from GigaOM Pro:
Subscriber content. Sign up for a free trial.

• Mobile Q2: Smartphone growth surges; iPad’s rule continues
• How Speech Technologies Will Transform Mobile Use
• Mobile Q4: The scramble for spectrum continues

Stylish MacBook bag. No Mac owner wants to carry around their machine in the drap bags given corporate employees by the IT department. The Switch Messenger Bag from Brenthaven for around $99 online strikes a good balance between being too small to accommodate your peripherals, and too large to just grab-and-go when you’re in a hurry.

Protective iPhone case. When it comes to protecting your iOS device with style, Otterbox takes the cake. The combination of soft silicone, hard plastic and a screen protector makes the Commuter series of cases stand-outs compared to the rest of the crowd. For $35, it’s a great, cheap alternative to their somewhat bulkier and more protective Defender series.

Smart stylus. While many stylus devices for the iPhone and the iPad have mimicked the look and feel of a ballpoint pen, I’ve found that the form factor of a piece of chalk lends itself better to iOS touch screens. The Logiix Stylus Pro Jr fits the bill. And for just $20, it has a price that matches its size.

Portable iOS keyboard. More and more people are choosing to forgo desktops and even laptops entirely, in favor of the iPad.  The more real work that can be conducted on just the iPad, the more one wishes they had a portable keyboard to carry around with them to make the process even easier. For $50 on Amazon, the Verbatim Wireless Bluetooth Keyboard is exactly what’s called for.

Affordable home headset. Everyone certainly has a favorite mobile headset.  But some may want to have a second pair to leave either at the office or at home that offers both comfortable and economy. Amazon has a pair of Sennheiser HD 220 II Professional Headphones that are certainly hard to beat at a price of just $20. They’re lightweight, and provide decent isolation from surrounding noise. Most importantly, they’re comfortable even during long periods of use.

Desktop cable organizers. We all know how cumbersome a workspace can get when you have too many cables. That mess doesn’t mesh with Apple’s clean design lines. That’s where the Quirky Metal Cordies come in.  For $15, you get a means of managing your cables that matches your Mac’s design aesthetics.

Bluetooth headset. It seems like wireless headsets have dropped in popularity since they first came out, but with Siri, there may just be a renaissance of wireless headsets on the horizon. There’s no reason to settle for less than the best, since the Jawbone ERA Bluetooth Headset is on sale through Amazon for just $88.  The noise cancellation capabilities of the Jawbone are especially impressive.

AirPrint-enabled printer. Eventually, purchasing a new printer is just as cost-effective as buying more ink for your old one. And having an AirPrint capable printer on the network that does not require an intermediary solution like Printopia is always a good thing.  Amazon has several AirPlay-capable printers on sale for less than $60 like the Epson Stylus NX430 Small-In-One Inkjet Printer.

Big screen game console. One of the most understated features of iOS 5 is the ability to broadcast to an HDTV connected to an Apple TV over the air. With the iPad 2 and iPhone 4S, you can now mirror everything you do on your device wirelessly.  This can really change the way you play certain iOS games.  For just $99, the Apple TV is one of the best iOS accessories you’ll ever buy.

Tabletop game cabinet. Certainly something that stands out in any game room, the iCADE is available from ThinkGeek for $80. This is no April Fool’s Joke; there are a growing number if iOS titles like Atari’s Greatest Hits that support the Bluetooth integration offered by the arcade-style game controls available on the iCADE, and they’re sure to be a hit with the gamer on your list.

Compact iPad stand. TwelveSouth makes some amazing products for your Apple devices. One is the Compass Mobile Stand for the iPad.  At $40, it isn’t one of the cheapest solutions for supporting your iPad, but it is certainly one of the most compact.  The advantage is the fold away storage size of the stand when not in use, making it is a great travel accessory.

Portable document scanner. The VuPoint Solutions MagicWand is more like a digital camera than it is a scanner. Yes you do manually drag the scanning element across the item, but you access the scanned images as you would using a digital camera — via a microSD card, which is good news for Mac and iPad owners (so long as you have an SD card adapter and the iPad camera connection kit). For $99, this scanner provides a quick and convent means of scanning documents when you’re on the go.

Related research and analysis from GigaOM Pro:
Subscriber content. Sign up for a free trial.

• Connected Consumer Q2: Digital music meets the cloud; e-book growth explodes
• Mobile Q2: Smartphone growth surges; iPad’s rule continues
• How to Market Your iPhone App: A Developer’s Guide

Besides the description of a “curved-glass,” wrist-top iPod with Siri controls, the NYT‘s report is light on specifics, saying mostly a “small” team within Apple is tasked with dreaming up and prototyping wearable computing devices. But forming a picture of what Apple could do with wearable tech, based on the examples of other early pioneers in the space, Apple’s own patent applications, and recent changes in the tech it uses in its mobile devices.

Plan for the PAN

Apple will almost certainly try to exploit the onboard connectivity technology of its mobile devices to make users and their gear walking personal area networks of real-time feedback and communication. It took another definite step in that direction with the addition of Bluetooth 4.0 to the iPhone 4S, MacBook Air and Mac mini, and its recent efforts to promote the low-power, low-latency Bluetooth tech among iPhone, iPad and iPod accessory makers.

Bluetooth 4.0 is key to Apple’s wearable device strategy, because it could potentially allow wearable devices to talk to a central command device, in all likelihood an iPhone or iPad, without taxing battery life to the point where using it entails more pain than gain. If it’s promoting the tech heavily to outside developers, you can bet it’s betting on it internally, too.

Keep your smartphone close, but your data closer

Existing wearable computing devices hint at what could be on the horizon from Apple, albeit probably in a much more roughshod form than Apple would ever ship. Devices like the Meta Watch and inPulse smartwatch already deliver wrist-based notifications of messages, calls, emails and more from your smartphone. People already keep their smartphones no further than three feet away in most situations, on average, says the NYT, but smart watches bring the information and communication they provide closer still.

If Apple is indeed working on a curved-glass, wrist-wearable iPod, it’s also likely testing ways in which this device can talk to your iPhone to provide a steady stream of meaningful information. The iPod nano, with its countless watch-band accessories, is basically already crying out for this kind of functionality.

Patents and prototypes pave the way

Apple rarely takes breaks from filing new patents and working with supply chain partners on mysterious products, and some of those designs paint a picture of a wearable device future. The NYT‘s description of a curved glass iPod, for instance, resonates with a report from September that claimed Apple was getting ready to release products with curved touchscreens early in 2012.

Apple also has some general patents in play that could come in handy for small, wearable devices, like one for making portable devices out of lighter-weight materials with new, advanced construction methods, and descriptions of methods for using non-physical, non-visual control schemes (of which Siri is just one example) for future devices. That last patent talks about providing tactile feedback, which could be very useful for a computing device strapped to one’s person.

Mobile gets personal

Wearable computing is definitely a trend, and though right now it’s in its infancy and running into early-stage problems (the Jawbone UP recall, for example), it’s quickly accumulating momentum (the UP’s success despite its shortcomings, for example). Apple may not be on the cutting edge of this trend right now, as the relatively non-communicative iPod nano hardly counts, but it has the ingredients to take wearable devices mainstream: a massive existing iOS user base, and the right tech, both currently shipping and in active development.

Related research and analysis from GigaOM Pro:
Subscriber content. Sign up for a free trial.

• Connected world: the consumer technology revolution
• 2012: Data, spectrum and the race to LTE
• Flash analysis: Steve Jobs

Your music, packaged as simply as possible

The ODDIO1 is a smart-looking set of headphones that can caddy your iPod shuffle, making it possible to have your music with you in a simple, svelte package. It doesn’t hurt that these have a bold, colorful (or not, if you opt for the black version) design, too.

The headphone cord is only exactly as long as it needs to be, and plugs into the shuffle once it’s in its cradle on the right earphone (you just slide the iPod in). Buttons on your device remain accessible thanks to a cut-out for the circular control panel, and the headband is made of plastic while the inside is lined with silicone for comfort. ODDIO1′s creators, Jeremy Saxton and Jacob Hall, tout it as the perfect package for those with active lifestyles who don’t want to be encumbered by cables or devices out-of-reach in pockets when snowboarding, using the gym or running, for instance.

ODDIO1 is available for backers beginning at the $35 pledge level, which comes with a choice between three color combos. For $200, you get the special Cupertino color scheme, and an iPod shuffle in a color you pick to boot. ODDIO1 is just getting underway, but it’s making decent progress toward its funding goal of $45,000.

A speaker in disguise

Portable speakers tend to be noticeable things. They can be good-looking or garish, but you’re not likely to miss one in a room. The Hidden Radio & Bluetooth Speaker is comparatively innocuous. It has a twist-and-lift design that lets you control how much volume you hear, and its creators advertise “room filling sound” from your Bluetooth-compatible device. Plus, boasting 30 or more hours of battery life, it won’t quit when you need it most.

The tiny, clean design and alternative connection options (it does have a 3.5 mm stereo jack, too) and more than 80dB of output make this an amazingly appealing device, for sound from your iPhone, iPad or iPod touch wherever you happen to need it. Plus, at $119 for a pre-order of one metallic silver unit, or $229 for a pre-order of two in either silver or black, it’s a deal compared to a lot of currently available comparable tech. The Hidden Radio is also already funded; it currently has $229,717 in funding, far above its goal of $125,000, with 42 days remaining.

Got an exciting Kickstarter project? Send it to us for consideration in our regular roundup of promising accessories.

Related research and analysis from GigaOM Pro:
Subscriber content. Sign up for a free trial.

• Connected world: the consumer technology revolution
• Flash analysis: Steve Jobs
• Connected Consumer Q2: Digital music meets the cloud; e-book growth explodes

What is Bluetooth 4.0?

It’s the latest incarnation of Bluetooth, the wireless device-to-device technology that allows your phone to talk to headsets, car stereos, keyboards and other devices directly, without the need for a router or shared wireless network. The 4.0 version of the specification (also called Bluetooth Smart) introduces greatly lowered power consumption, thanks to a new way of maintaining a connection between devices without the need for a constant stream of data being transferred between the two.

Bluetooth 4.0 also contains the high-speed data-transfer specifications that were introduced with Bluetooth 3.0, which allows for speeds of up to 25 Mbps. The latest spec is backward-compatible with previous versions, so your iPhone 4S will still work with the Bluetooth 2.0 stereo headset you have, for instance, or with your Apple Wireless Keyboard.

What can Bluetooth 4.0 do for you?

Thus far, not much. Bluetooth 4.0 requires both sending and receiving devices to have the technology on board before it can really start showing benefits for users. As mentioned above, it works fine with devices using older versions of the spec, but it doesn’t get to take advantage of any of its power-saving features with Bluetooth 3.0 or lower.

The big benefit of Bluetooth 4.0 will come from peripherals, much like with Thunderbolt technology. Unlike with Thunderbolt tech, however, consumers can expect Bluetooth 4.0 accessories to launch with price ranges and use cases that are much more palatable to the average consumer. Thunderbolt, like FireWire before it, will at first be a cost-prohibitive high-speed data-transfer tech aimed at film and video pros; Bluetooth 4.0 plants the seed for a wide range of more-consumer-oriented applications.

Input, input, input

Bluetooth 4.0 will be most useful for the new crop of sensor devices coming to market that aim to provide your iPhone or computer with a wealth of external data to help inform special applications. Perfect examples of how the tech might be used include heart rate monitors, GPS sensors and environmentally aware devices, somewhat like the new Nest thermostat.

Such peripherals will be able to be powered much more efficiently than those using previous Bluetooth standards, which will make their promise of being set-and-forget devices more of an attainable reality. Bluetooth 4.0 peripherals powered by simple watch batteries will be able to collect and inform specialized applications on iPhones and other devices, allowing for a smarter and more integral connection between our lives and our devices.

One example of where Bluetooth 4.0 could come in handy is with the smart watch technology that Kevin Tofel has been following so closely. Theoretically, a smart watch using Bluetooth 4.0 would be able to get much more out of limited battery life than existing devices, allowing for a long-lasting connection that doesn’t require much attention from a user. Imagine the battery life of your current quartz wrist watch but with the ability to deliver notifications when your phone receives a text or call.

Whole-home devices

Bluetooth 4.0 paves the way for a future in which your MacBook Air, Mac mini or iPhone can passively monitor and keep abreast of everything going on in your house. Monitor the temperature of that roast you’re cooking, note when your solar array stops receiving direct sunlight, and have your cordless robot vacuum tell you when it needs to hit the charging station: All could be possible through future implementations of a low-power, direct-communication spec like Bluetooth 4.0.

That’s the long-term play that Apple has made with the 4S. Nice to see users get something that could pay dividends much further in the life of their product, rather than just another limitation that becomes a reason to upgrade in a year’s time.

Related research and analysis from GigaOM Pro:
Subscriber content. Sign up for a free trial.

• CES 2012: a recap and analysis
• The Internet of things: creating tomorrow’s health care
• Connected world: the consumer technology revolution

Note that Bluetooth hands-free and Bluetooth AD2P audio streaming are different. When I recently bought my new car, I was excited to be able to answer the phone via built-in Bluetooth, but was disappointed that Bluetooth AD2P wasn’t supported by my new Prius. Many cars come with Bluetooth hands-free, but not AD2P. The devices I tested have some combination of charging, hands-free phone calling, and streaming AD2P audio from an iPhone to a car stereo either via FM transmission or the auxiliary (aux) input that newer cars do include as standard or part of a basic entertainment package.

Charging, hands-free, FM Transmitter, and AD2P

If you want it all, then the Soundfly BT Ultimate $59.99 is the way to go. It not only charges your iPhone via a USB port, but also allows you to stream your audio to your car stereo either using an aux port or FM transmitter. The adapter has a full set of controls for audio and hands-free phone function, and also offers use of those functions via remote control. The remote is important, since many cigarette lighter adapters (CLA) are tucked out of reach. An adjustable microphone makes it easy to find the optimal place for callers to hear you, and it even has an SD card reader so that you can use it for music without an iPhone.

Although this device had the most features and flexibility, and an attractive price, sound quality was less than optimal for phone calls. Callers often asked me to repeat myself. Music quality was good, though as with many similar devices, there was a hum due to the fact it provided both power and audio. The controls on the adapter were complete inaccessible in my Prius and Camry, and for long-term use, I would mount the remote with Velcro in my car.

Charging, hands-free, and AD2P

If you don’t need FM transmitter support, but want everything else, the Belkin AirCast $79.99 is a good choice. The CLA has a USB port as well as a wired remote and aux combo cord. While the length of these cords is adequate for most cars, the AUX cord isn’t removable and could pose a problem if it proves too short.

The remote is a simple round magnetic disk that will stick to any metal surface. Similar to your iPhone’s home button, the button on this device is multifunction depending on the situation. It can flash to tell you a call is coming in, as well as be used to pause music and pick up a call.

Sound quality was excellent with the AirCast, though again a slight hum could be heard because the device was providing both power and audio. Callers could tell I was on Bluetooth hands-free, but could still hear me just fine.

Hands-free and AD2P

If you already have a charger or want to avoid the typical hum the power+audio devices have, the Griffin BlueTrip Aux $79.99 is the way to go. Although the microphone is built into the device and not adjustable, the BlueTrip’s hands-free was the easiest for callers to understand. This adapter eschews a remote and simply has a button that can be used to pick up calls. While I appreciate the minimalist approach, for most users, the CLA will be in a difficult position to get to. The audio quality was the best of the bunch, which makes sense since it didn’t have to worry about providing power.

If you do need charging, Griffin makes a companion device, the PowerJolt Plus for $29.99, that provides pass-through capabilities so you can use it to charge your iPhone along with any other CLA device such as the BlueTrip or non-Griffin devices such as a GPS adapter. Because it provides power separately from the BlueTrip, the audio quality didn’t suffer when I used both the PowerJolt Plus and the BlueTrip.

Charging, FM Transmitter and AD2P

If, like me, you’ve already got a built-in hands-free solution and just want to stream audio and charge your iPhone, then the Tunelink Auto $99.99 is for you. This device also works with an iPod touch and iPad. Although it’s the most expensive product I reviewed, and had the least amount of functions, what it does do, it does well.

The Tunelink includes an aux cable and iPhone adapter to charge your device while streaming audio. Unlike the other combo devices, their proprietary “humbuster” technology minimized the interference coming from the built-in charger. In my quiet Prius, I could occasionally hear a tiny bit of distortion, but mostly there was none. For cars without an aux port, the Tunelink supports FM transmission to play music.

The Tunelink also has a companion iOS app that makes finding the exact FM stereo frequency a snap. It uses the GPS coordinates to find what the best station for your area is. The app also allows you to immediately begin playing audio when you get in the car, and even lets you share your Bluetooth connection with others, so if your travelling companion wants to play her music, she can not only play it from her iOS device, but control it as well.

AD2P only

The Miccus BluBridge mini-jack RX is a battery-powered little wonder that only provides AD2P audio, which means no distortion from a connected power source. It’s also extremely flexible and can stream your iPhone audio to any device that has a mini jack input (multiple adapters were included). This allows you to stream your iPhone audio to your home stereo system without having to worry about docking stations.

Long term use of this device (more than eight hours) in a car will require power, so I tested it along with the Miccus Chargeblock Car Adapter 2a (which supports both the iPad and iPhone). Similiar to the Griffin device, I had no problems with hum while charging. The Chargeblock was the smallest charger I tested, and with the combination of both the Chargeblock and BluBridge, the combo was still smaller than any other devices reviewed here, making them perfect for those wanting to maximize storage space.

The two minor complaints I had about this device was that to save power, it would go to sleep when it wasn’t paired. All the other devices I tested auto-paired with my iPhone once I turned on my car. The BluBridge needed to be woken up. Presumably because it was battery-powered, the audio output was also somewhat weak coming from the device, and required me to turn up the volume much higher than I did with all the other devices.

Verdict

Because my Prius had built-in hands-free already, I opted for the Tunelink. The excellent audio quality, features and iOS app won me over. For my spouse’s Camry, we decided on the Griffin BlueTrip aux. The audio quality for both phone calls and streaming was the deciding factor. For those times we need charging in the car, the PowerJolt plus was an excellent companion (though the Chargeblock Car Adapter also proved handy for charging the widest variety of devices).

Disclosure: All vendors provide samples for this review.

Related research and analysis from GigaOM Pro:
Subscriber content. Sign up for a free trial.

• Flash analysis: Steve Jobs
• Mobile Q2: Smartphone growth surges; iPad’s rule continues
• A Media Tablet Forecast, 2011 – 2015

The iGrill is a Bluetooth enabled remote cooking thermometer. The base unit hangs outside the grill and you insert a probe in your food to determine temperature, just like one based on RF. Analog devices like this have been out for years. But iGrill is cooler because it’s Bluetooth. The iGrill supports up to two probes and transmits the data to your iOS device. Obviously, you don’t put your itself iPhone anywhere near the grill.

At first the unit was a bit flaky, but a few software updates and helpful tech support resolved the problems. I got it to pair fine with my iPad but had trouble with the iPhone. Also, we learned the hard way you can only pair the iGrill with one device at the time, which makes sense, but it means only one designated family member will likely operate in a supervisory role. My only complaint with tech support is that they are only open during business hours, and really, who grills during business hours?

The free companion app has a virtual thermometer interface to show the recognized temperature in analog and digital form. You can set an alarm by temperature, time, or a preset level of doneness depending on the type of meat being cooked. The app included a limited number of recipes, which were not integrated into the software. I expected to be able to tap on a recipe and have the iGrill configure itself based on the recipe.

As a remote thermometer, this unit is moderately expensive. Ones based on RF average around $50 retail while the iGrill sells for $99. However, if you wanted cheap you probably wouldn’t have an iPhone in the first place. Because this integrates with your iPhone, you don’t have to carry two devices around the house. That clearly has some value, but maybe not $50 worth.

Why buy it then? Because it’s fun! We’ve had a grill for year and never bothered to get a remote thermometer, and burned many dinners in the process (or thrown them in the microwave to reduce rawness). After we got the iGrill, everything came out awesome and at the perfect temperature, no cutting into stuff to determine doneness. My iPhone tells me when it’s done.

The iGrill is also stylish and comes in both black and white, unlike the iPhone 4. Old-style RF/analog thermometers simply don’t belong in a home in which every member of the family has an iPhone, and iPad and a Mac. What would the neighbors think about that “Mac” family down the street using 20th century tech to determine if dinner is ready?

Disclosure: While iGrill did provide a unit to Dave, he had to buy all the items to actually grill.

Related research and analysis from GigaOM Pro:
Subscriber content. Sign up for a free trial.

• How to Market Your iPhone App: A Developer’s Guide
• How to Get Your Green iPhone App Noticed

*Items highlighted in green represent the best options for each category.

Columbus V900 – While not from a very well know manufacture, the V900 has been one of my favorite GPS devices. It is available on Amazon for around $105.  While it is the most expensive of the three, it also has the most features. Besides being able to remove the microSD memory card, this device will also let you record and tag a voice memo at an exact location.  The included software used to read and access the data on the device, called Time Album, is Java-based and will run just fine on the Mac.  While it will charge with a miniUSB able, you will need to carry around a microSD card reader in order to import the log data on your Mac.

QStarz BT-Q1000XT – QStarz manufactures several different GPS receivers worth looking into for your particular needs.  I have been using one of their Travel series and it has served me well.  The Q1000XT is every bit as versatile as the V900 when used solely as a GPS receiver.  It currently lists for $99 on Amazon.  The major downside with QStarz is that the included software used to access the stored data requires a unique USB driver that is Windows only. There is however a third party utility, BT747 that will work with the QStarz.  But you will have to install the CP210x USB to UART Bridge VCP Drivers from Silicon Labs in order to get it to work properly.

USGlobalSat BT-335 – As reputable as QStarz, USGlobalSat is a well known and reputable brand among GPS receivers.  The BT-335 is their latest Bluetooth receiver that is also a Data Logger.  At just $69 on Amazon, it is the cheapest of the three.  The one thing I did not like about the BT-335 is that it does not charge via mini USB and therefore requires you to travel with a dedicated charger specific to the device.  There is, however, a native Mac version of the Global Sync utility which makes accessing the data straight forward.  The only other downside is that it is the bulkiest of the three to carry around.

Once paired with your Mac, most GPS aware applications will automatically detect the GPS receiver.  For instance, in Google Earth, from the Tools menu select the GPS menu item.  On the Realtime tab check the “Automatically follow the path” and click the Start button.  Google Earth will create a “Temporary Place” in your places that will update the map with your coordinates.

All three devices are excellent data loggers and Bluetooth receivers.  While pairing via Bluetooth works identically on the Mac for all three, the same cannot be said of the connectivity and access to the data captured by each device’s logging capabilities.  Any one will work just fine with your Mac, but having access to all three, I tend to opt for the Columbus V900 most often.

Related content from GigaOM Pro (sub req’d):

• Location-Based Services — Just a Fad?
• The Enormous Promise of Location
• Is Geolocation a Real Business or Just a Feature?

“The rumor is false,” Wi-Gear CEO Mark Pundsack said via e-mail in response to an inquiry from Tech Trader Daily. “Wi-Gear and its IP are still available for sale.”

We’ve updated the story throughout to reflect this new information.

Apple has acquired Bluetooth headphone maker Wi-Gear, according to a new report. The Such a purchase could result in new Bluetooth headsets for use with iOS devices and Mac computers, but what’s more interesting is what it a purchase says about Apple’s acquisition strategy and the future of accessory makers working in its ecosystem.

Why Wi-Gear

Wi-Gear, which made the iMuffs A2DP stereo headphones for the iPhone, as well as a Bluetooth 2.0 adapter for earlier generation devices which lacked onboard support for the communication technology, was bought by Apple around two months ago, according to 9t05mac. The report is further supported by evidence found on LinkedIn. A former Wi-Gear engineer’s profile says that he joined Apple’s Bluetooth team exactly two months ago, precisely when Apple is supposed to have acquired the accessory-maker. This is the same method used to ferret out Apple’s purchase of semiconductor IP firm Intrinsity.

While initially, Wi-Gear may seem like an unlikely target, a simple search reveals that reviewers consistently give the iMuffs very high marks. It’s It would be a buy that keeps with Apple’s overall strategy of acquiring smaller companies that excel at what they do, but aren’t yet at an advanced state of maturity. Wi-Gear is only five years old, and would brings highly specialized IP into the Apple fold. However, the company is now confirmed to be out of business.

How it Would Fits Apple’s Overall Acquisition Plan

If you look at GigaOM Pro analyst Michaels Wolf’s acquisition rubric governing Apple’s purchases (subscription required), a Wi-Gear buy would makes perfect sense. Apple would gets increased control over call and music quality associated with its devices; it can now would be able to create a high-quality, Apple-branded Bluetooth stereo solution tailored to iPhone that will help further differentiate it from Google’s all-third party hardware strategy; and it can would be able to cash in directly on the wireless headphone accessory market that has sprung up around its products.

A Warning Shot for Accessory Makers

It’s that last point that should have accessory makers worried. The iOS accessory ecosystem is one of the most profitable for third-party device manufacturers. Much like Twitter did in early days with third-party apps, Apple has used that accessories ecosystem to provide value-add incentives to draw customers to its products. Now that Apple’s available cash exceeds $50 billion, the company is keen on making strategic acquisitions, and part of that strategy could involve profiting more directly from the ecosystem third-party companies have helped create and grow.

As Geoffrey Goetz noted, Apple’s past two media events have had potentially devastating consequences for businesses and even entire industries that depend on the Mac-maker in one way or another to make money. Until now, those consequences have been largely the result of component decisions or software releases, but this latest acquisition could signal the beginning of the end for accessory makers closest to Apple’s core business, too.

Related content from GigaOM Pro (sub req’d):

• Motives and Possibilities for a Big Apple Acquisition
• The Red-Hot Data Warehouse Market: Who’s Buying Next?
• Report: U.S. Mobile Venture Capital Investment, Q2 2010

That’s why I find the concept of the keyboard case so appealing. Build a Bluetooth keyboard into an iPad case and you have a single-package solution that keeps everything nicely organized on the go. At least, that’s how it works in theory. I was recently able to see if that theory would pan out with the new Kensington KeyFolio for iPad. I’ve been using the KeyFolio with my iPad for a little over a week now. During that time, I haven’t removed the iPad from the case once, so I feel confident I gave it a fair shake.

Build and Design

The Kensington KeyFolio presents a nice face. It looks good, and the fake leather is both animal-friendly and easy on the hands. Some padding means your iPad feels more secure, and the fit and a clever foldback tab ensures the iPad isn’t sliding out anytime soon.

My only problem with the case aspect of the KeyFolio is that my iPad doesn’t screen doesn’t sit in the window quite where it’s supposed to. The top of the screen is right to the edge of the window, while there’s extra room at the bottom, and the home button is almost right at the edge of the groove provided for it. It’s close enough that it works, but for the absolute perfectionist, it might be annoying.

The keyboard is the one we saw from an FCC filing towards the end of summer. In fact, the KeyFolio is the KeyCase rebadged by Kensington for the U.S. market. At least one other manufacturer is using the same keyboard part for sure, and Sena was supposed to, but has since removed the case from its list of offerings.

It’s around 90 percent the size of a full keyboard, like you’ll find on most netbooks. It has rubberized keys to prevent damage from spillage, and to prevent the keyboard itself from harming the iPad screen in any way. It’s a weird feeling, but it makes for quiet typing. I did find that once in a while I’d get double-presses because of how sensitive the keys were, though.

Function

Connecting the iPad to the keyboard is a breeze; just flick the hardware switch on the case to “on” and press the connect button. Go into your Bluetooth preferences in your iPad’s Settings, and pair the device there. You’ll have to type a code on the keyboard followed by “Enter,” but that’s it.

Once you’re paired, the keyboard should simply work. I say “should” because I encountered some hiccups. Sometimes, the keyboard would drop and regain the connection without warning, which would pop up the on-screen keyboard briefly. A manual on/off reset using the switch usually fixed this, though, and it may have been because I was testing iOS 4.2 on the iPad I was using. Either way, it wasn’t a big enough problem that it would cause me not to use the case.

You don’t have to manually turn off the keyboard unless you want it to not connect, since it sleeps after a period of disuse. Battery life is said to be around 100 days in standby mode, or 90 hours of actual usage. It takes around four or five hours to charge. I haven’t managed to burn through a charge yet, so I think the claims are pretty accurate.

The way the case folds for typing is perfect, in my opinion. It takes up very little space, and even provides a stable enough base that you can use it on your lap without an additional support surface. It only provides one viewing angle, but in my usage I felt no desire to adjust, no matter where I was using it.

Highs

I grew to love using the KeyFolio. I often use my iPad primarily as a chat client, and that became a lot more pleasant with a hardware keyboard. So did managing my email from the couch, and working with the device on the train and subway to get some serious work done.

Combined with Pages and even blogging sites in Safari, the KeyFolio is a road warrior’s best friend. It isn’t a new MacBook Air (and in fact, it might weigh more than one combined with the iPad), but it’s a lot cheaper even at $100.

Lows

There were the rare connection issues I mentioned, but there’s also the keyboard itself, which requires some getting used to. There’s no shift key on the right, and if you happen to use the apostrophe key a lot, which I apparently do, you have to train your fingers to look down below the period key. I actually picked up the trick pretty quickly, but it’s still a bit of a pain.

Finally, keeping your iPad in the case does take away a bit from its own design benefits. It’s heavier, and harder to use as a tablet. I found turning off the keyboard and folding it behind worked fine, but it still didn’t feel as good as using the iPad on its own. Also, you’re stuck with landscape mode when you’re using the keyboard, something which didn’t trouble me as much as I would’ve thought.

Verdict

The Kensington KeyFolio may seem a tad expensive at $99.99, but consider that most iPad folio cases cost around $50 on their own. That means you’re really only paying an extra $50 for the Bluetooth keyboard. Even Apple’s own will cost you $70. I recommend it, especially if you’re someone who likes to work with their iPad while travelling, or you just want your tablet to be even more of a laptop replacement. The KeyFolio isn’t yet available, but you can pre-order yours from Kensington’s site.

Disclosure: The Kensington KeyFolio tested was provided by the manufacturer for testing and review purposes.

Related content from GigaOM Pro (sub req’d):

• In Q3, the Tablet and 4G Were the Big Stories
• Report: Web Worker Survey 2010
• Can Anyone Really Compete With the iPad?