The Apple iPad’s arrival took the world by storm a week ago, and whether you love or hate Apple’s tablet there’s no denying it’s going to be one of the most desirable gadgets of the year. It’s also sure to attract accessories of all shapes and sizes – we take a look at some of the hottest iPad accessories available right now…

iPad Dock and Keyboard Dock (Apple)
It’s hardly a surprise that Apple got in there first, but its in-house accessories look to be valuable add-ons to extend the iPad’s appeal. The basic Dock is a valuable charging point, but it’s much more besides. There’s no USB on the iPad itself, but stick it in the Dock and that changes, allowing you to sync with your computer and connect extras like speakers or the Camera Connection Kit (see below). The Keyboard Dock does the same job, but throws in a full-sized keyboard too.

iPad Case (Apple)
Given that the iPad is the same size and shape as a 10.2in netbook, there are plenty of ready-made cases and sleeves already out there. But Apple’s own Case stands out by offering a kick-stand designed specifically for the iPad form factor, letting you prop it up like a digital photo frame and kick back to watch movies or look at photos. And when you’re done, the Apple-branded front cover can swing closed to keep that touchscreen protected.

Scosche kickBACK stand for iPad
A simple kickstand that will steady the iPad almost upright for movie-watching, recipe-following or even eBook reading. kickBACK already to stands for the iPhone, so you know it’s not going to fall down.

Griffin Flexgrip
Griffin was the very first big name to detail its range of iPad accessories, and our personal pick is the Flexgrip. Gripping onto the iPad’s back and sides, the Flexgrip’s flexible silicone construction combines the perfect mix of rigidity and second skin-like lightness. It leaves all ports and buttons on the iPad completely accessible, and can easily be used in conjunction with another case or sleeve for more industrial protection.

iPad Camera Connection Kit (Apple)
The iPad’s large screen size makes it perfect for browsing and editing your digital snaps while out and about, and this twin-pack of add-ons gives you just the tools you need. Plug them into the iPad’s 30-pin connector on the bottom edge and you’ve instantly got a USB port you can connect your camera up to, or an SD card reader if you want to take your pics or video straight from the card.

Griffin Screen Care Kit for iPad
It may not be the most glamorous of thoughts, but let’s face it: no matter how careful you are, all those loving prods of the iPad’s touchscreen are likely to give it the odd smudge or two. Well, if the thought alone sends shivers down your spine, Griffin’s screen care kit is what you need. Comprising a premium soft cleaning cloth designed for the iPad’s sensitive glass surface and a peel-back static screen protector, it’s just the way to show your iPad how much you care.

BodyGuardz for iPad
An alternative protective jumpsuit for your iPad comes from NLU with its BodyGuardz products. You can choose from screen or body protectors (or both), with NLU promising the BodyGuardz is “easy to apply and is designed to offer full body and screen protection to your device while letting the beauty and design of the Apple iPad shine through”. Well, there you have it.

Others
Given that the iPad was still officially a rumour just one week ago, and that the device itself won’t be seen here in the UK until the end of March, rest assured you will expect a flood of iPad accessories to hit the market as iPad launch date gets closer. We can’t wait…

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