Japanese case turns the iPad into a mini MacBook Pro
![MacBook Pro style case for the iPad](/postpics/macbook-pro-ipad-case.jpg)
While I’ve never been a fan of cases that are designed to turn the iPad into a notebook – I personally think you end up with something that doesn’t work particularly well as either a notebook or a tablet – I do have to give this one some credit, if only because it looks like a mini MacBook Pro.
Launched earlier this month in Japan, and advertised as the “NoteBook Case” for iPad 2, it features a built-in lithium-polymer battery that charges the attached iPad, USB & mini USB ports, and Bluetooth for the keyboard.
The case currently appears to be limited to Japanese retailer Rakuten, where it costs 5,980 yen – around £46 ($75), whether or not it will ever be available to purchase in other countries remains unclear.
It’s also not clear if there are any plans to create a version for the latest third-generation iPad, which given its slightly thicker form factor, seems unlikely to fit in this model.
![](/postpics/notebook-ipad-case2.jpg)
![](/postpics/notebook-ipad-case1.jpg)
![](/postpics/notebook-ipad-case3.jpg)
Would you buy this case for your iPad? Let me know what you think of it by leaving a comment below.
[Via 9to5Mac]