Logitech's Logi Base stand is the smart way to charge your iPad Pro

When Apple unveiled the 12.9-inch iPad Pro last November, one of its most interesting assets was a small three-dot imprint on one side of its aluminum chassis. Known as the Smart Connector, the magnetized input allows for the simultaneous transfer of data and power, enabling keyboards, like Apple's own Smart Keyboard, that require neither synchronization nor rechargeable batteries.

Today, a second type of accessory has been announced that takes advantage of the Smart Connector. Logitech's Logi Base (opens in new tab), a $99 aluminum stand, magnetically attaches to either the 9.7-inch or 12.9-inch iPad Pro, holding it stable at a welcome 70-degree angle while charging.

Powered by a Lightning cable that plugs into the sturdy chassis, the Logi Base isn't particular complicated, but it represents a solution that brings the iPad Pro as close to wireless charging as is possible. Moreover, given that the iPhone 7 is rumored to have a Smart Connector of its own, it's easy to imagine such solutions will be commonplace a few months from now.

That the Logi Base only has one viewing angle is not unexpected — to cut down on costs, most stands of this type are not adjustable — and Logitech seems to have settled on one of the more universal of orientations. The base, covered with a moderately tacky rubber, adheres to a given surface with no permanent residue, something I both appreciate and want in more of my stands.

The Logi Base is a simple and triumphant example of how the iPad Pro's Smart Connector can be best utilized when not attached to a keyboard. I kept it in the kitchen, where it replaced my beloved Bluelounge Mika as my recipe holder. Not only did the Logi Base make it easy to reference recipes while cooking, but it allowed me to keep the screen on indefinitely, and at full brightness — guilt-free!

At $99, the Logi Base isn't cheap, but it's certainly one of the best ways to keep your iPad Pro charged.

See Logi Base at Logitech (opens in new tab)

Daniel Bader

Daniel Bader is a Senior Editor at iMore, offering his Canadian analysis on Apple and its awesome products. In addition to writing and producing, Daniel regularly appears on Canadian networks CBC and CTV as a technology analyst.

5 Comments
  • MFi Certified ?
  • It's odd that we haven't seen very many third party Smart Connector accessories yet... As far as I know there's only this and Logitech's Create keyboard which is nearly as expensive as the official Apple one...
  • A bit but it's gen 1 Smart Connector so companies are still developing their accessories, most likely. I don't think they got a heads up on it in advance.
  • If connected to a computer can you transfer data through the smart connector?
  • Seems that the Smart Connecter is a lot like Mag Safe. Wonder if it's gonna make it's way to the MacBooks? Sent from the iMore App