The Apple ecosystem is one of the most complete out there, that’s for sure. Of course, it comes with a hefty price tag, but the seamless nature of the ecosystem is one of the main selling points for Apple devices. So, how do you tie everything together? That was probably going through the minds of the folks behind Kensington’s latest product: the StudioDock.
The StudioDock is essentially an all-in-one productivity hub that you can mount your iPad Pro (2018 or newer) or iPad Air 2020 onto, while charging your “entire Apple ecosystem” simultaneously. However, Kensington might have forgotten about the MacBook—or perhaps it isn’t a part of the mobile ecosystem they’re talking about—but you can charge your iPad, iPhone, AirPods, and Apple Watch, all at the same time.
“Magnetically attach and detach your USB-C iPad Pro 11” (2018+), iPad Air (2020+) or iPad Pro 12.9″ (2018+) to the elegantly designed StudioDock™ in portrait or landscape mode, and unleash the creative possibilities with a powerful desktop experience. No drivers required.”
The iPad can be mounted in either portrait or landscape mode, while there are two wireless chargers integrated as part of the hub—one that charges up to 7.5W, and another up to 5W. To charge an Apple Watch, you’re going to purchase an additional, optional 5W wireless charger that can be attached to the StudioDock.
The StudioDock can also do more than simply charging, of course. On the back of the hub, there are three USB-A ports, Gigabit Ethernet, and even a HDMI2.0 port. Meanwhile, there is a single USB-C port for 37.5W charging—which is 108 percent faster than an Apple 18W charger—along with an SD card reader, and even a 3.5mm headphone jack.
“Get the most from your iPad with StudioDock™. The ideal iPad docking station that expands more than your desktop options — it expands your creativity.”
All of that comes together in a nice, minimalist, Apple-esque aesthetic that should appeal to fans of the Cupertino-based company’s usual design language. There’s a minimalist-styled aluminium pedestal, and you’ll basically be charging your AirPods/Apple Watch/iPhone at the base of it. There isn’t a dedicated spot for a keyboard, but you can simply place it in front of the display for a natural position.
At the moment, there is no word on pricing—or even availability. However, Kensington mentions that the optional Apple watch charger will be coming in mid-2021, so perhaps we’ll see the Kensington StudioDock launched before that. For now, this seems like a really nice way to tie all of your Apple devices together—besides your MacBook—but its price tag will probably decide if this will be a successful product.
What do you think? Let us know what sort of price you’d be willing to pay for Kensington’s productivity hub in the comment section.
