RIM is introducing a new accessory for the BlackBerry PlayBook that actually looks pretty cool. It’s the BlackBerry mini keyboard and it aims to not only make you more productive with your tablet, but even turn it into a laptop thanks to Citrix Receiver.
The keyboard isn’t just an ordinary keyboard attachment. It also acts as a stand and a portable case that’s less than 6 mm thick. Open it up and you’ll find the full QWERTY keyboard with what seems like appropriately sized keys — not too crowded or small. Below that is a touchpad with multi-touch gesture support built-in, the same ones you can use directly on the PlayBook’s screen. A single tap initiates a regular click, two-finger tap for right click, and two fingers up or down to scroll.
What really takes the cake here is the integration with Citrix Receiver. You’ll be able to access your entire desktop with Citrix so you can work on virtually everything like you would with a laptop. RIM demonstrates the ability to edit and present PowerPoint presentations in the video below. If you own a BlackBerry smartphone, Bridge can add to the functionality of the keyboard by allowing you to type with your BlackBerry’s keyboard or navigate through slides in a presentation.
The BlackBerry Mini Keyboard is available for pre-order for $119.99, which isn’t too shabby. It greatly benefits the BlackBerry PlayBook and could potentially drive some to actually buy one. If you are really looking to be that productive with a tablet though, you’re probably better off saving up a few more Benjamins for an 11.6-inch MacBook Air or comparable ultrabook.
[via RIM]