3 funky iPad accessories Apple doesn’t want you to know about

We’re all familiar with the iPad’s standard lineup of canon accessories: keyboard folio cases, digital styli, paper-emulating matte screen protectors — you know the drill.

However, what if I told you there was an entire world of additional iPad accessories that hardly anyone pays attention to, even though they’re some of the most compelling peripherals currently out on the market?

This underground breed of iPad-centric gadgets all have one thing in common: they all magnetically adhere to Apple’s proprietary Smart Connector pogo pin interface — a spring-loaded set of triple metal contact pins that facilitate the transfer of power and data.

Here are three third-party Smart Connector peripherals that greatly enhance the iPad’s day-to-day functionality, while offering minimalistic, premium user experiences in the process.

KUXIU M30 Magnetic Smart Connector Charger

Save your iPad’s USB-C port for data throughput

Kuxui’s M30 Magnetic Smart Connector Charger is a downright ingenious peripheral. Measuring in at a cable length of 6.65 feet (2.03 meters), one side features a standard USB-C port, and the other houses a magnetic Smart Connector module. Essentially, you can look at this product as analogous to Apple’s standalone MagSafe 3 charger for the MacBooks and MagSafe Qi2 charger for the iPhone.

By opting to use the M30 for 35W power delivery, you can ensure that your iPad’s built-in USB-C port remains available for connecting other peripherals, hubs, and storage drives. The M30 is compact and well-built, with a metal-clad design that fits right in with the Apple hardware aesthetic. It also features a braided cable design, which should elongate the product’s lifespan while fighting against cable knots.

CharJenPro MagFlött VESA Mount V2

Mount and charge your iPad at the same time

Credit: Pocket-lint / CharJenPro

If you think about it, the iPad is essentially a super-portable computer in the shape of a monitor. As such, it only makes sense for there to be VESA mounting peripherals available for the slate — and that’s where CharGenPro’s MagFlött VESA Mount V2 comes into play. This all-metal VESA plate ships with a built-in female 1/4-20 thread receptacle, making it compatible with a wide array of monitor arms and camera tripods.

By mounting your iPad via VESA, you’re able to benefit from convenient angle adjustments, more comfortable posture, and a cleaner work environment. The added bonus with the MagFlött V2 model is its built-in Smart Connector pins, which allow for pass-through charging the moment you place the tablet on its mount. As an added bonus, there’s even a MagSafe-style ring of magnets built into the mount, which allows for iPhone docking (without the inductive charging, of course).

Lululook 360 Rotating Foldable Magnetic iPad Charging Stand

Transform your iPad into a mini desktop workstation

Credit: Pocket-lint / Lululook

For the longest time, I’ve wanted Apple to build its own magnetic charging dock or stand for the iPad. All the elements needed for success are already there: the Smart Connector, magnets, and the iPad’s thin and light form factor. I envision an Apple-designed iPad desktop stand to resemble the iconic lampshade-style iMac G4, but, for the time being, my wish is nothing more than a nerdy pipe dream.

That being said, a number of third-party manufacturers have taken it upon themselves to build their own docking stations. The Lululook 360 is an excellent example: it features pogo pin pass-through charging, magnetic attachment, and a clean, metal design that looks sophisticated. Its base allows for full 360-degree rotation, while its arm section is collapsible for on-the-fly portability. Aside from providing a dedicated space for your iPad to call home and to stay juiced up, the Lululook 360 acts as an ideal mini iMac setup when placed on a desk.