Logitech’s New Folio Touch is an Interesting Alternative to Apple’s Magic Keyboard

Photo Source: Logitech

I’ve been wondering if Logitech would ever pay any attention to the current iPad Pro form factor. Their Slim Combo for the original and 2017 iPad Pros was my favorite keyboard case of all time and I’ve been waiting over two years for an encore. Logitech also released new keyboard cases with trackpads around the same time as Apple’s Magic Keyboard, but only for the iPad, iPad Air and older iPad Pros.

It looks like Logitech has finally come around. They are preparing to release the new Folio Touch keyboard case for the 2018 and 2020 11″ iPad Pros later this month. This new keyboard case has some of the same features as the Slim Combo, such as full case coverage, a backlit keyboard and fully adjustable kickstand. However, it also has a trackpad and offers positions that easily allow for media viewing and Apple Pencil use, as well.

Photo Source: Logitech

Logitech’s Slim Combo had a removable keyboard, which was a great feature. While you lose that feature here, the extra media and drawing modes for the Folio Touch look pretty useful. You can also fold the keyboard behind and use your iPad Pro as a tablet without having to remove the case. While I really like the Magic Keyboard, the Folio Touch does address a couple of the most common complaints against it. That makes this keyboard case an interesting and very versatile option, in my opinion.

There is one odd detail about this case. For some reason, Logitech has chosen to ignore the 12.9″ iPad Pro and only make the Folio Touch available for the 11″ version, at least for now. As an owner of a 12.9 model, I can’t say I’m happy about this move. I’ve always loved Logitech keyboards and would absolutely buy this keyboard case if it were available for my Pro. Hopefully they will either reconsider and release a 12.9″ model later, or bring out a similar product that is specifically geared toward the bigger iPad Pro.

Healthy competition is always a good thing, so I’m happy to see that Apple finally has some for the Magic Keyboard. However, I can’t help but take note of one thing. When the Magic Keyboard and Logitech’s first round of trackpad keyboard cases were released, it was reported that Logitech worked directly with Apple in their development to nail trackpad support. That makes sense, as Logitech’s first cases were successful, while Brydge is still struggling to get their first trackpad case to work well with iPadOS. A little help from Apple goes a long way.

The more interesting thing is that Logitech waited until now to release this new case for the 2018 and 2020 iPad Pros. Maybe it’s the conspiracy theorist in me, but I can’t help but wonder if Apple’s design help came with some strings attached. Strings like, you get all the help you need as long as our new Magic Keyboard has a few months head start. I don’t have an ax to grind with Apple, but I definitely wouldn’t put this past them.

At the end of the day, I’m just happy to see Logitech making good cases for the iPad Pro again. The more the merrier. Now just get us a 12.9″ version soon to go along with it.