By Andrew Liszewski
At this point it’s pretty obvious the iPhone is never going to get a physical keyboard, but there are plenty of Android-based alternatives for those who can’t stand tapping out a message on-screen. But if you’re an iPhone user who’s been keeping hope alive your dreams will soon be a reality, at least a third-party reality. Shown for the first time at IFA, NUU’s Mini Key is a protective case that not only solves the iPhone 4’s reception issues (which I’ve yet to experience) but also adds a flip-out QWERTY keyboard.
I’m assuming it connects to the iPhone’s dock connector, hence the extra bulk on the bottom of the case, and in addition to a keyboard it also includes a “Bluetooth v2.0 class 2 and HID profile compliant Broadcom chip” and a built-in rechargeable battery to power the keyboard’s backlight so as not to drain the iPhone’s. It also makes for a handy stand when you’re watching videos. $69, available sometime around Christmas.
[ Mobile Magazine – IFA: Mini Key keyboard from Nuu converts iPhone into a flipping clamshell ]