Since getting my iPad Pro last week, I've been intentionally using it in a variety of different situations. On my lap. In Logitech's keyboard case (opens in new tab). In the car. At a café. In my hands.
And lately, thanks to a prototype from Surface ID, I've been playing around with the TStand, a multi-angle tablet stand that uses scalable claws to support your iPad mini, Air, and Pro (along with any non-Apple tablets ranging in size from 7 inches to 13).
I've primarily been using the TStand as an artist's easel, and I love it: it puts the Pro right at hand and eye level, and I can position it however I feel like drawing. The prototype looks right at home next to my iMac, its silver curvature blending right in alongside my other Apple devices. The bottom grippers even jut out ever so slightly so that you can rest a stylus at the bottom of the screen—maybe not intentional design, but as an artist, I appreciate it.
I've used the TStand less as a couch reclining tool, but its large viewing angle means that you can flip the feet so that they become an arc, perfect for sitting on your chest while you browse the news, watch Netflix, play a puzzler from The Room, and more.
The TStand is currently a Kickstarter (there are just six days left in the campaign as of this blog post), but Surface ID plans to use its massive manufacturing background to get final units in supporters' hands by mid-December, and opening up general production early next year. It's more than met its initial manufacturing goal, but if you're interested in getting ahold of one for your iPad (Pro or otherwise), you can pick one up for just $37 + shipping (its retail price will be $69).
