Logitech today revealed two new accessories for the sixth-generation iPad: the Logitech Crayon and Logitech Rugged Combo 2, both designed to help students become “more creative and productive” in the classroom. The accessories were announced during Apple’s “Field Trip” event in Chicago earlier today.
The Logitech Crayon is a digital pencil, similar to Apple Pencil, but comes in at a cheaper price of $49, roughly half the price of the Apple Pencil (Apple is selling its first-party Pencil to schools for $89). Logitech said that its alternative leverages Apple Pencil technology to deliver sub-pixel precision, low latency, and tilt support.
The Crayon works with a wide variety of apps and software already found in classrooms, including Apple’s newly updated iWork suite. The physical build of the Crayon allows for easy gripping that also prevents rolling to reduce the potential for accidental drops. The device has an 8-hour battery life, and includes other kid-friendly features like a pry-resistant tip and tethered rubber cap.
“iPad opens up new opportunities for learning, both inside the classroom and beyond,” said Michele Hermann, vice president of mobility at Logitech. “We’ve brought years of design expertise into the classroom with Logitech Crayon and Rugged Combo 2, which take advantage of the new iPad’s capabilities. Together, these products give students more opportunities to be creative and all new ways to complete their school work, taking learning to new heights.”
Secondly, Logitech’s updated $99.99 Rugged Combo 2 case for the new iPad was announced, created with input from educators so that it can survive “daily wear and tear” in classrooms. The case integrates a protective screen covering that doubles as a keyboard, and also includes a slot for the Logitech Crayon.
The keyboard section is detachable and its keycaps are pry-resistant as well as silent while students type on them. Powered by the iPad, the case as a whole is spill-resistant and can protect the iPad from a drop of up to four feet. Logitech launched the first Rugged Combo iPad case one year ago, following Apple’s early 2017 9.7-inch iPad update.
The keyboard physically connects to the Rugged Combo 2 case using a proprietary connector to deliver a secure keyboard connection, making iPad an approved device for testing.
In addition to being durable, the Rugged Combo 2 case offers an adjustable kickstand for a wide range of viewing angles and four use modes: Typing mode, for taking notes; Viewing mode, to watch educational apps and videos; Notebook mode, for writing with digital pencils and reading; and Travel mode, which protects the iPad screen during transport. It also features a pencil holder that’s a perfect fit for Logitech Crayon or Apple Pencil, so students always have the tools they need at hand.”
Logitech’s new accessories will be available for schools to buy in the United States beginning this summer, found on Apple’s education website.
