Students and faculty at Frederick Gunn School enjoy a stately milieu tucked away in Washington, Connecticut. The school was founded in 1850 and sits on a 220-acre campus. There, Sasaki recently completed an addition: The Lizzie and Jonathan Tisch Center for Innovation and Active Citizenship. The Tisch Center is smack dab in the heart of Gunn School, overlooking its historic quad. It houses the schools innovative science, math, engineering, entrepreneurship, and citizenship curriculum.The addition has three gabled roofs and sits on a masonry baseboth of these design features tie in nicely with Gunn Schools historic and idyllic environs. At Tisch Center, some elevations are opaque and others are lined in glass, suggesting a dynamic interplay between solids and voids.The addition has three gabled roofs. (Jeremy Bittermann)At certain sections, fins regulate daylight entering the volumes where natural lighting is optimal. The white elevations are punctured by large apertures with dark stone gray casements around them, breaking up the facade. All in all, the new addition is meant to function as an interdisciplinary active learning environment where multiple departments coalesce. The Tisch Center employed myriad sustainability techniques that demonstrate Gunn Schools commitment to going green.Fins regulate natural light. (Jeremy Bittermann)The building is organized around a vast, generous atrium. There, students enter and exit a multistory, light-filled volume awash with sunshine. Occupants have the option to either go right to class or enjoy break out spaces furnished with chairs and tables suitable for leisure activities.The building is organized around a central atrium. (Jeremy Bittermann)Windows at Tisch Center are thermal glazed; this helps maximize the buildings energy efficiency and provide greater insulation. Materials for its millwork and community seating areas were sourced from reclaimed trees, further offsetting its carbon footprint. Architects at Sasaki opted to use geothermal wells that generate energy directly from the earth for Tisch Centers heating and cooling sources. Tisch Center also has roof-mounted solar panels.Classrooms boast large windows (Jeremy Bittermann)Technology labs were designed for efficiency and collaboration. (Jeremy Bittermann)Jonathan Tisch, a Gunn School alum who bankrolled the eponymous addition, thanked Sasaki for the design. When youre on the outside looking in, you will see all of the various departments, you will see the classrooms and the students learning, Tisch noted, commenting on the additions porosity.And then when youre on the inside looking out, Tisch added, youve got a view on the campus that deserves to be embraced. Thats whats so amazing about the design.

If AN was to select a Glyph of the Year, 2024s answer would be obvious: The award would go to , the lowly but essential multiplication symbol. It is regularly used to indicate dimensionsand, therefore, to imply spaceand, far too often, is erased, replaced by its common substitute the letter x. These days, signals collaboration. The act seems to be everywhere. The use of to unite two brands together may have gotten its start in fashion circles, where emerging designers were invited to breathe new life into more established houses thirsty for virality. The trend has now spread to all corners of design culture.While past zeitgeists trafficked in the myth of the heroic single author, is a welcome addition to architectural discourse. This is, after all, a profession that relies on the collaboration of dozens (or hundreds, even thousands) of people for a single projectespecially the award winners.If AN was to select a Glyph of the Year, 2024s answer would be obvious: The award would go to , the lowly but essential multiplication symbolVerily: Architects join forces to co-lead practices; offices pair up to deliver co-designed competition entries; project teams include a whole host of professionals and consultants; and companies partner with designers to create new objects, advertisements, showrooms, pop-ups, and experiences. At its worst, the mark, composed of two crossed lines, can obscure the actual dynamics of the exchange, serving as a cheery distraction that masks a calculated business transaction, more like a shotgun marriage than true love. But at its best, the glyphs visibility is a welcome act of recognizing the ways that creative people work together. The results of successful collaborations can be superb, like when architects coordinate with a range of experts to elevate construction quality. This is what happened with the new terminal at the Portland International Airport, designed by ZGF, which secured ANs Project of the Year in addition to winning a Best of Design Award in the Infrastructure category. Beyond offering a pleasant travel experience, the mass timber building comes with an encouraging story about sourcing: According to wood advisor Sustainable Northwest, 100 percent of the wood for the roof and ceiling came from local forests within 300 miles of the airport, and 96 percent of the wood for the roof and ceiling came from sustainably managed forests. Following this recognition (and the four projects that were selected as finalists), be sure to check out the many winners, honorable mentions, and editors picks across our Design, Products, and Practice Awards.Across 2024, ANs coverage and events, often propelled by an interest in addressing the climate crisis, provided reminders about how architects interact with construction. We published stories about start-ups, city agencies, researchers, and designers working on circular economies; reviewed a book by theorist Sergio Ferro, who argues that architectures politics begin on the job site; and raised awareness about worker deaths in Saudi Arabiaall while delivering a near-constant flow of news, reviews, and case studies.Its a lot, but so much is happening so quickly. Stay tuned for more in 2025.

The Israel Snow House stands at 9 Water Street in the South End of Rockland, Maine, and it is one of the regions finest examples of late Greek Revival architecture. The residence was built for Captain Israel Snow (1801-1875), a mariner and captain of several vessels, including the schooner Maria (1829), the brigSnow(1835-36), the brig Lucy Ann(1842), and the Barque Star (1848). In 1850, he and his wife Lucy moved from Thomaston to Rockland, and he would build this stately mansion where they raised seven children. Some records put the construction of this house at 1861, but that seems very late for such an example of this style. In 1863, he founded Snows Point Shipyard on Mechanic Street in the South End. Rockland was the fourth largest seaport in the United States in terms of production and commerceat the time, and Snows shipyard was a large part of that production. This residence is now offices to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Services Maine Coastal Islands National Wildlife Refuge Complex.

Maksim Kabakou - FotoliaOpinion2025-30: Geopolitical influence on cyber and the convergence of threatFrom Covid-19 to war in Ukraine, SolarWinds Sunburst, Kaseya, Log4j, MOVEit and more, the past five years brought cyber to mainstream attention, but what comes next? The Computer Weekly Security Think Tank looks ahead to the second half of the 2020sByRob Dartnall,SecAlliancePublished: 17 Dec 2024 The early 2020s saw multiple threads of the cyber threat landscape evolve. This was mostly as individual strands, rather than symbiotically. However, as we move into the latter part of the decade, we will see the big convergence of these. Over the last five years, we have been resigned to the fact that the supply chain has become one of our biggest threats, geopolitics and conflicts have driven real world affects in the cyber domain, technology providers still dont deliver secure products, governments fail to recognise the digital environment as the new critical national infrastructure (CNI) and artificial intelligence (AI) is creeping into offensive tools used by threat actors.As we approach the end of the decade and the early 2030s, we will still have failed to address these individual threats, and they will come together, causing significant disruption and harm.For the past couple of years, it has become more evident that technology providers are focused on pushing products to market, with little care for their security. Recently we have even seen the FBI and CISA demand providers start to properly adopt secure-by-design. This laissez-faire approach has already led to huge numbers of unnecessary compromises and entities having to invest significantly in EASM (External Attack Surface Management) and vulnerability intelligence programmes.For many of my clients, the majority of the breaches they suffer, emanate from their supply chain. Traditionally the supply chain was targeted by sophisticated nation-state actors as they fully understood and could leverage the one to many attack. However, as criminal actors became more aware and capable, they began to adopt this technique as well. And more recently we have also seen hacktivists, aligned to social and geopolitical issues, take this approach.As they, and we, move away from old media to newer, social and open platforms, where both mis- and disinformation are rampant, we will also see a broader set of entities being targeted, increasing the need for entities to monitor a wider set of platforms for negative comments and sentiment. We have already started to see centralised functions that have been outsourced being targeted by these types of actors following disinformation campaigns on these platforms.The Computer Weekly Security Think Tank looks aheadMike Gillespie and Ellie Hurst, Advent IM:CISOs will face growing challenges in 2025 and beyond.Elliot Rose, PA Consulting:The most pressing challenges for CISOs and cyber security teams.Pierre-Martin Tardif, ISACA:Six trends that will define cyber through to 2030.Stephen McDermid, Okta:In 2025: Identities conquer, and hopefully unite.Deepti Gopal, Gartner: CISOs:Don't rely solely on technical defences in 2025.Paul Lewis, Nominet: Decoding the end of the decade: What CISOs should watch out for.These and future successful attacks will be down to the fact that most governments, and even regulators, do not fully understand or, even if they do, can not properly map these critical suppliers and central functions to the digital environment. As such, they have not rolled out the required legislation or regulation to properly protect it, or the society that relies upon them.Finally, we get to AI; not the Hollywood type, but the Narrow AI, we are starting to leverage now, and likely to be using into the end of the decade, albeit becoming slightly more capable and advanced. While AI will be great for cyber defence, it will of course by used by nefarious actors. Some of the likely uses of AI in offensive operations are already being seen; enhanced social engineering (such as better phishing emails and the adoption of AI-supported deepfake videos and voice notes) to the development of supporting attack infrastructure and the development and deployment of malware. This is not an article on AI and all of its uses by bad actors, but one significant area of concern is the use of AI to identify vulnerabilities (and variants) and rapidly and automatically develop and deploy exploit code, reducing n-day exploitation times down to minutes or worse.So, as we move into the end of the decade, what do I see in my magical mystical ball, also known as an intelligence assessment? Its the convergence of all of this. Software will still be like Swiss cheese, more actors will have more capabilities due to AI, supply chain compromise will be commonplace, digital CNI will not have been protected and single point of failure attacks against the supply chain will constituently take critical services offline. As more nations with developing economies acquire offensive capabilities, geopolitics becomes more fractured. The digital environment will simply be a more dangerous place to do business and, though unlikely, some nations may even be taken offline for days at a time.In The Current Issue:What do the home secretarys policing reforms mean for the future of the Police Digital Service?What are the security risks of bring your own AI?Download Current IssueMicrosoft Copilot: A Year of Learning Write side up - by Freeform DynamicsPrint Industry Trends, 2025 Quocirca InsightsView All Blogs

In an era where customer expectations are higher than ever, integrating artificial intelligence (AI) into client relationships has become a game-changer. AI can significantly enhance client relationships and strengthen client relationships when adopted and managed correctly. One AI-powered tool making significant strides is Copilot for 365, but businesses must address key concerns when adopting AI to avoid getting a lump of coal from clients.AI can transform how businesses interact with their customers. For example, it can quickly push out business cases to customers, freeing up sales managers to focus more on building relationships and engaging directly with clients. Like Santas elves working tirelessly behind the scenes, AI tools handle administrative tasks, enabling more face-to-face interactions, fostering stronger connections, and enhancing overall client satisfaction.AI capabilities allow businesses to process and analyse vast amounts of data, from spending habits and frequent buys to the time spent looking at a specific product. These insights enable teams to provide a more tailored experience via personalised recommendations, unique suggestions, and substitution offers when a product is out of stock. AI can also offer timely responses to any customer questions or requests through AI chat functions, improving the overall customer experience. One example of a company that has thoroughly harnessed customer data is Spotify from personalised playlists to the famous Spotify Wrapped, its CEO labelled AI as a huge unlocking technology.While the benefits of AI are clear, there is a noticeable divide among customers when it comes to AI adoption. Some are eager to embrace these technologies, recognising the potential for enhanced service and efficiency. Others prefer to wait and see, often due to concerns about privacy, security, and the reliability of AI.This hesitation is understandable, as recording meetings and conversations might lead to clients holding back their true thoughts and concerns out of fear of being misinterpreted. So, getting buy-in from customers and ensuring transparency about the use of AI tools is essential for successful implementation. Customers need to trust and understand the benefits of AI to fully embrace it. Key factors for customers mean getting data into the right place to truly harness AI capabilities. Thats where trusted experts can come in to drive adoption in the future of AI.The 12 Days of AIOn the First day of AI, we explore how AI is being used in marketing, the benefits and key use cases, as well as concerns and how marketerscan best take advantage of the technology.On the Second Day of AI, we look at the importance of truly understanding what AI isto enable true organisational transformation.On the Third Day of AI, we explore some of the key trends to keep an eye on, and prepare for,in 2025.On the Fourth Day of AI, we discuss the value of adopting AI responsibly, and outlines how businesses can build responsible adoptioninto their plans.On the Fifth Day of AI, we explore how AI is reshaping HR boosting productivity, addressing concerns,and preparing organisations for the future.On the Sixth Day of AI, we explore how leveraging AI and cloud can enhance business performance and sharetips for successful implementation.On the Seventh Day of AI, we explore the double-edged sword of AI in cybersecurity and how businesses can protect themselvesagainst the cyber grinches.On the Eighth Day of AI, we explore the key considerations and strategic frameworks essential for extractingmaximum value from AI projects.On the Ninth Day of AI, we explore the critical role data plays in AI implementation and the key steps business leaders must take to prepare their datafor a successful AI future.On the Tenth Day of AI, we explore the evolving role of AI in managed servicesand what to expect in 2025.On the Eleventh Day of AI, we explore the differences between private and public AI, the key benefits and downsides of private AI, future trends, and how to get started with a hybrid AI approach.To mitigate the risks and maximise the benefits of AI in client relationships, it is crucial to ensure ethical and effective use. Businesses must get on board with data insights and partner with experts to navigate the complexities of AI integration. Establishing clear guidelines and maintaining transparency with customers about how their data will be used can help build trust.Also, as AI use becomes more regulated, businesses must stay updated with the latest rules and legislative changes. Compliance not only maintains trust with customers and employees but also avoids reputational damage caused by data breaches. Embracing AI responsibly ensures sustainable success and innovation. Just as Santa carefully manages his operations to deliver joy worldwide, businesses must manage AI responsibly to deliver exceptional service.As we look towards the future, AI tools are expected to become even more beneficial for businesses. In 2025, AI could become more tailored to the specific needs of businesses, offering cost-effective solutions and enabling even greater personalisation of customer interactions.For instance, AI tools like Copilot for 365 can conduct analysis while representatives are away on leave, ensuring they can make the most significant impact upon their return. Going further, advancements in sentiment analysis can provide insights into customers body language and engagement levels during video calls, helping representatives address any issues proactively. AI can also prepare detailed briefs for meetings, including understanding sector trends and customer backgrounds, making interactions more productive and relevant.AI holds tremendous potential to revolutionise client relationships. By addressing the barriers to adoption, ensuring ethical use, and leveraging the benefits, businesses can significantly enhance their customer relationships and satisfaction. As we move forward, embracing these technologies will be crucial for staying competitive and meeting the ever-evolving expectations of customers. Businesses of all sizes must prepare and invest in AI to remain fierce competitors in a continuously evolving landscape.Much like Santas preparation for the festive season, thoughtful and strategic adoption of AI can bring about significant positive changes. So, whether youre looking to join the nice list or simply want to improve your client relationships, now is the time to embrace AI and let tools like Copilot guide your sleigh to success.Josie Rickerd is director of enterprise accounts at ANS, a digital transformation provider and Microsofts UK Services Partner of the Year 2024. Headquartered in Manchester, it offers public and private cloud, security, business applications, low code, and data services to thousands of customers, from enterprise to SMB and public sector organisations.

A court ruling that the Metropolitan Police and the Police Service of Northern Ireland unlawfully placed journalists under surveillance has led to renewed calls for a public inquiry into potential abuses of surveillance powers by police forces.The Investigatory Powers Tribunal found today that a former chief constable of the PSNI, George Hamilton, acted unlawfully by signing off on a directed surveillance operation to identify the suspected source of two Northern Ireland journalists.The PSNI unlawfully targeted investigative journalists Barry McCaffrey and Trevor Birney after they produced a film documentary, No stone unturned, exposing police collusion with a paramilitary group that murdered six innocent Catholics watching a football match in a pub in Loughinisland, County Down, in 1994.The PSNI admitted in a report published during the course of the legal proceedings that it had placed over 500 lawyers and 300 journalists under surveillance.Those targeted included more than a dozen journalists working for the BBC.PSNI chief John Boutcher appointed special advocate Angus McCullough KC to review matters of concern following disclosures that police had used surveillance powers in an attempt to identify journalists confidential sources in June 2024.But campaigners said today that the review does not go far enough, and called for the government to set up a public inquiry into police surveillance of journalists in Northern Ireland and the rest of the UK.In an open letter to McCullogh released today, Conservative MP David Davis said it was clear that the PSNI had contributed to fostering a culture of intimidation and hostility towards journalists, as well as harbouring contempt for both safeguards and the law.Davis told McCullogh he was concerned that his independent review lacked the necessary powers to uncover the true extent of the PSNIs behaviour.Without the authority to compel full disclosure from the PSNI and demand the release of all relevant documents, there is a significant risk that crucial evidence will remain concealed, he added.Davis said the PSNI had a habit of withholding critical evidence, and that much of the evidence of the PSNIs surveillance practices was only considered by the Investigatory Powers Tribunal because it was disclosed by Durham Police.This pattern of behaviour raises doubts as to whether the PSNI will engage in good faith with this review, he said. I am particularly worried that covert surveillance to ascertain and identify journalistic sources appears to be common practice for the PSNI.The joint case of Mr Birney and Mr McCaffrey reveals a sustained approach by the PSNI to target anyone who dares to investigate the Police Services actions in the Troubles, added Davis.Evidence heard by the Investigatory Powers Tribunal showed the PSNI systematically bypassing judicial oversight and deciding for itself whether to use targeted surveillance mechanisms. Time and again, directed surveillance, seizing communications data and data preservation requests were executed without appropriate judicial or independent authorisation, the letter states.Davis told McCullogh there was a consistent pattern in the PSNI of misrepresenting the reasons for surveillance.The PSNI justified its surveillance of Birney and McCaffrey by claiming to target a public official allegedly leaking sensitive documents. However, it is clear that the focus of these operations were the journalists themselves, he said.What this suggests is that the PNSIs true objective was to stifle reporting on police misconduct rather than to address any substantive security threats, said Davis. This is a grave infringement on both press freedoms and the public interest.The PSNI displayed nothing but contempt for the IPT hearings, and as a direct result of their failure to disclose relevant documents, the timetable for the hearings was repeatedly disrupted. This attempt to obstruct the IPTs ability to access the full scope of unlawful actions is, once again, part of a wider pattern.Speaking after the verdict, Birney said the judgement had raised serious concerns about the lack of safeguards and oversight of police operations.Only a public inquiry can properly investigate the full extent of unlawful and systematic police spying operations targeting journalists, lawyers and human rights defenders in the north of Ireland, he added.McCaffrey called for further investigations after the IPT criticised former PSNI chief constable George Hamiltonfor approving the unlawful undercover surveillance operation against a civilian member of staff at Northern Irelands Police Ombudsmans Office (PONI).That a chief constable has acted unlawfully, we think, is a major embarrassment, and its something that needs there to be a public inquiry, he said.David Davis MP said that the ruling was the most dramatic and far-reaching by the Investigatory Powers Tribunal to date. We might have been critical of them in the past, he said, but the IPT had highlighted the sheer depth of activity and, frankly, concealed dishonesty on the part of state agencies and in this case two police forces.Daniel Holder, director of the Committee on the Administration of Justice, said this was a case where police had very clearly stepped outside the rule of law.Were dealing with something that seems to be part of a much broader pattern and practice of seeking to conceal the involvement of police and other state agents in conflict era violations, and thats deeply concerning, he said. But the fact that this has happened once doesnt mean it hasnt happened on other multiple occasions, and thats what we now need to look into.Patrick Corrigan, Northern Ireland director for Amnesty International, described the case as a landmark for press freedom and the rights of journalists to protect their sources, which he described as the cornerstone of any free society.The revelation by the tribunal that the PSNI spied on staff from the office of the police ombudsman, the very statutory body which investigates police wrongdoing, should worry everyone who cares about policing and police oversight in Northern Ireland, he said.Disclosures in the tribunal hearing revealed that the PSNI conducted a defensive operation to monitor phone calls made by police officers and to compare them with phone numbers of journalists who had given their numbers to the PSNI press office.The purpose of the operation was, among other objectives, to identify officers who may have leaked information to journalists. Although the PSNI suspended the operation for the course of the tribunal hearing, it had told the IPT that it plans to resume the operation today.Birney said the PSNI had effectively conducted a drag net operation against journalists, lawyers and human rights activists.Read more about Barry McCaffrey and Trevor Birneys case against PSNITribunal criticises PSNI and Met Police for spying operation to identify journalists sources.Detective wrongly claimed journalists solicitor attempted to buy gun, surveillance tribunal hears.Ex-PSNI officer deeply angered by comments made by a former detective at a tribunal investigating allegations of unlawful surveillance against journalists.Detective reported journalists lawyers to regulator in unlawful PSNI surveillance case.Lawyers and journalists seeking payback over police phone surveillance, claims former detective.We need a judge-led inquiry into police spying on journalists and lawyers.Former assistant chief constable, Alan McQuillan, claims the PSNI used a dedicated laptop to access the phone communications data of hundreds of lawyers and journalists.Northern Irish police used covert powers to monitor over 300 journalists.Police chief commissions independent review of surveillance against journalists and lawyers.Police accessed phone records of trouble-making journalists.BBC instructs lawyers over allegations of police surveillance of journalist.The Policing Board of Northern Ireland has asked the Police Service of Northern Ireland to produce a public report on its use of covert surveillance powers against journalists and lawyers after it gave utterly vague answers.PSNI chief constable John Boutcher has agreed to provide a report on police surveillance of journalists and lawyers to Northern Irelands policing watchdog but denies industrial use of surveillance powers.Report reveals Northern Ireland police put up to 18 journalists and lawyers under surveillance.Three police forces took part in surveillance operations between 2011 and 2018 to identify sources that leaked information to journalists Trevor Birney and Barry McCaffrey, the Investigatory Powers Tribunal hears.Amnesty International and the Committee on the Administration of Justice have asked Northern Irelands policing watchdog to open an inquiry into the Police Service of Northern Irelands use of surveillance powers against journalists.Britains most secret court is to hear claims that UK authorities unlawfully targeted two journalists in a covert surveillance operation after they exposed the failure of police in Northern Ireland to investigate paramilitary killings.The Police Service of Northern Ireland is unable to delete terabytes of unlawfully seized data taken from journalists who exposed police failings in the investigation of the Loughinisland sectarian murders.The Investigatory Powers Tribunal has agreed to investigate complaints by Northern Ireland investigative journalists Trevor Birney and Barry McCaffrey that they were unlawfully placed under surveillance.

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A robust and functional iPad keyboard case can make all the difference in keeping your device safe and functional. That's why our experts have tested the best iPad keyboard cases of 2024, looking for that perfect blend of durability, functionality, and style. We used these cases ourselves and put them through the wringer.Here are our top picks for the best iPad keyboard cases of 2024, from brands like Apple, Logitech, and more.Also: The best iPads of 2024: Expert testedWhat's the best iPad keyboard case right now?Our expert testing, reviews, and extensive research have helped us select the best iPad keyboard cases you can buy. Our choice for the best iPad keyboard case overall is Logitech's Combo Touch keyboard case for its functionality and fair price. Check out our other recommended picks and see how our top choice compares to tried-and-true options. Sort by All The best iPad keyboard cases of 2024 Show less The Logitech Combo Touch is our pick for the best overall iPad keyboard case thanks to its top features and affordable price. The Combo Touch is packed with functions with a detachable keyboard, backlit keys, built-in stylus storage, iPad OS shortcut keys, and more. It offers four modes of use: type, view, sketch, and read, to suit any iPad activity.Review: My favorite iPad keyboard and stylus are not made by AppleWhen ZDNET's Senior Reviews Editor Kerry Wan tested the Combo Touch and Logitech Crayon Stylus with the iPad 10th Gen in 2022, he lauded it for its ability to "flex on the Magic Keyboard [Folio].""Logitech's Combo Touch cover and Crayon stylus for the iPad are cheaper and practically better than Apple's own accessories. [They] are not perfect, but they deliver a more feature-rich experience than Apple's first-party accessories at a fraction of the cost. That's not a knock on Apple's iPad keyboard and stylus by any means; the two are just as worthy of your consideration," Wan wrote in his review.Current customers on the Logitech website said they liked the Combo Touch case's top-of-the-line features, overall value, and price point. The case has over 100 5-star reviews. One customer, like Wan, even said it beat out Apple's Magic Keyboard. "This product is exactly what I hoped Apple was going to provide. And, it was at a fraction of the price," they wrote.Logitech Combo Touchspecs: Dimensions: 0.89 x 7.68 x 10.12 inches (per 10.2 inch display)|Connectivity:iPad 7th, 8th, 9th, 10th Gen (10.2 inches, 10.9 inches) | 4 modes (type, view, sketch, read) | Detachable keyboard | Backlit keys | Stylus storage | Full row of iPad OS shortcut keys | 1-year limited warranty | Two viewing angles Pros Detachable keyboard Trackpad Stylus storage Backlit keys More affordable than Apple's Magic Keyboard Folio Cons Slightly heavy Still pricey Limited color options The Logitech Combo Touch is our pick for the best overall iPad keyboard case thanks to its top features and affordable price. The Combo Touch is packed with functions with a detachable keyboard, backlit keys, built-in stylus storage, iPad OS shortcut keys, and more. It offers four modes of use: type, view, sketch, and read, to suit any iPad activity.Review: My favorite iPad keyboard and stylus are not made by AppleWhen ZDNET's Senior Reviews Editor Kerry Wan tested the Combo Touch and Logitech Crayon Stylus with the iPad 10th Gen in 2022, he lauded it for its ability to "flex on the Magic Keyboard [Folio].""Logitech's Combo Touch cover and Crayon stylus for the iPad are cheaper and practically better than Apple's own accessories. [They] are not perfect, but they deliver a more feature-rich experience than Apple's first-party accessories at a fraction of the cost. That's not a knock on Apple's iPad keyboard and stylus by any means; the two are just as worthy of your consideration," Wan wrote in his review.Current customers on the Logitech website said they liked the Combo Touch case's top-of-the-line features, overall value, and price point. The case has over 100 5-star reviews. One customer, like Wan, even said it beat out Apple's Magic Keyboard. "This product is exactly what I hoped Apple was going to provide. And, it was at a fraction of the price," they wrote.Logitech Combo Touchspecs: Dimensions: 0.89 x 7.68 x 10.12 inches (per 10.2 inch display)|Connectivity:iPad 7th, 8th, 9th, 10th Gen (10.2 inches, 10.9 inches) | 4 modes (type, view, sketch, read) | Detachable keyboard | Backlit keys | Stylus storage | Full row of iPad OS shortcut keys | 1-year limited warranty | Two viewing angles Read More Show Expert Take Show less Show less The Magic Keyboard Folio is Apple's flagship keyboard case for the most current base model iPad, the 10th Gen. Designed especially for the iPad, it features a built-in trackpad, a 14-key function row, an adjustable stand and detachable keyboard, and a versatile two-piece design. It's the most obvious choice on the market if you're looking for a keyboard case for your iPad, and like many Apple products, our team of experts think it's pretty up to snuff. But it's pricey, costing over $200.ZDNET's Kerry Wan has gone hands-on with Apple's Magic Folio and the Logitech Combo Touch (our top pick), and while he admits this Apple Magic Folio is good, he says it has been outdone in terms of function and value."The Combo Touch keyboard cover and Apple's own Magic Keyboard Folio share many similarities, like their two-piece design ... But Logitech made some additional design choices that I'm a big fan of," he wrote in his 2022 review.Current Magic Folio users on Best Buy said they liked the keyboard's value, quality, and ease of use. It has a 4.6/5 star rating online. Many users said it was worth the hefty price tag, but others said the cost was a bit much, considering a lack of features like backlit keys.Apple Magic Keyboard Foliospecs: Dimensions: 11.69 x 5.04 x 0.76 inches |Connectivity:iPad 10th Gen (10.9 inches) | Trackpad | Detachable keyboard | Adjustable stand | Protective back panel | 14-key function row | 1 year limited warranty Pros Trackpad Designed by Apple for Apple Detachable keyboard Adjustable stand Cons Uber pricey compared to other options No backlit keys Not compatible with older iPad models Limited color options The Magic Keyboard Folio is Apple's flagship keyboard case for the most current base model iPad, the 10th Gen. Designed especially for the iPad, it features a built-in trackpad, a 14-key function row, an adjustable stand and detachable keyboard, and a versatile two-piece design. It's the most obvious choice on the market if you're looking for a keyboard case for your iPad, and like many Apple products, our team of experts think it's pretty up to snuff. But it's pricey, costing over $200.ZDNET's Kerry Wan has gone hands-on with Apple's Magic Folio and the Logitech Combo Touch (our top pick), and while he admits this Apple Magic Folio is good, he says it has been outdone in terms of function and value."The Combo Touch keyboard cover and Apple's own Magic Keyboard Folio share many similarities, like their two-piece design ... But Logitech made some additional design choices that I'm a big fan of," he wrote in his 2022 review.Current Magic Folio users on Best Buy said they liked the keyboard's value, quality, and ease of use. It has a 4.6/5 star rating online. Many users said it was worth the hefty price tag, but others said the cost was a bit much, considering a lack of features like backlit keys.Apple Magic Keyboard Foliospecs: Dimensions: 11.69 x 5.04 x 0.76 inches |Connectivity:iPad 10th Gen (10.9 inches) | Trackpad | Detachable keyboard | Adjustable stand | Protective back panel | 14-key function row | 1 year limited warranty Read More Show Expert Take Show less Show less View now at Zagg The Zagg Pro Keys with Trackpad features many of the same traits as the more expensive options on this list at a more affordable price. The Pro Keys case has a detachable keyboard and case, laptop-style keys, an adjustable stand, a stylus holder, and multi-pairing capabilities. It's also extra durable, polycarbonate with reinforced rubber components and 6.6 feet of drop protection.With backlit keys in seven colors, customize your typing, work in low-light conditions easily, and toggle between two devices simultaneously, thanks to multi-pairing. Zagg says that the Pro Keys battery will last up to a year of typing before needing a recharge and that the keyboard will automatically turn off when folded backward against the tablet to preserve battery life.Current users on the Zagg website said they liked the overall value, functions, and design of the Pro Keys with Trackpad case. Many said it works like a laptop keyboard and levels up their iPad. Some customers said they wished more instructions for best use were included.Zagg Pro Keys with Trackpadspecs: Dimensions: 11.5 x 8.5 x 1.5 inches |Connectivity:iPad 7th, 8th, 9th (10.2 inches) | Trackpad | Detachable keyboard| Adjustable stand | Stylus holder | 6.6 feet drop protection | Multi-pairing capabilities | Backlit keys in seven colors | Rubberized edges, button covers, and corner bumpers | Battery life up to 1 year before recharging | 1 year limited warranty Pros Trackpad Multi-pairing capabilities Detachable keyboard Backlit keys 6.6 feet drop protection More affordable Cons No 10.9-inch model Limited color options The Zagg Pro Keys with Trackpad features many of the same traits as the more expensive options on this list at a more affordable price. The Pro Keys case has a detachable keyboard and case, laptop-style keys, an adjustable stand, a stylus holder, and multi-pairing capabilities. It's also extra durable, polycarbonate with reinforced rubber components and 6.6 feet of drop protection.With backlit keys in seven colors, customize your typing, work in low-light conditions easily, and toggle between two devices simultaneously, thanks to multi-pairing. Zagg says that the Pro Keys battery will last up to a year of typing before needing a recharge and that the keyboard will automatically turn off when folded backward against the tablet to preserve battery life.Current users on the Zagg website said they liked the overall value, functions, and design of the Pro Keys with Trackpad case. Many said it works like a laptop keyboard and levels up their iPad. Some customers said they wished more instructions for best use were included.Zagg Pro Keys with Trackpadspecs: Dimensions: 11.5 x 8.5 x 1.5 inches |Connectivity:iPad 7th, 8th, 9th (10.2 inches) | Trackpad | Detachable keyboard| Adjustable stand | Stylus holder | 6.6 feet drop protection | Multi-pairing capabilities | Backlit keys in seven colors | Rubberized edges, button covers, and corner bumpers | Battery life up to 1 year before recharging | 1 year limited warranty Read More Show Expert Take Show less Show less View now at Esrgear The ESR Rebound Magnetic Keyboard is another affordable iPad keyboard case option, much closer to $100 than other options on this list. It features similar top specs, such as a trackpad, a long-lasting battery, a floating, angled stand for viewing, laptop-style keys, a stylus holder, and front and back protection.With a sleek, laptop-esque design, the ESR Rebound can transform any space into a workstation. It is perfect for students, on-the-go users, or hybrid workers. The Rebound case is also available in white or black.Current ESR customers said they liked the keyboard's overall value, responsiveness, lightweight feel, and strong magnetic connection, giving it a 4.6/5 star rating on the ESR website. However, some users said the case closes oddly with a stylus in the storage slot and that the number keys are sometimes hard to reach depending on an outside case.Multiple customers said that the quality is premium and so are the features. "The quality definitely feels premium ... if the Magic Keyboard is out of budget, then this is a good value product," said one customer on the site.Author's Note: Save 18% with code BACK24 at ESR's website.ESR Rebound Magnetic Keyboardspecs: Dimensions: 10 x 6.7 x 0.5 inches|Connectivity:iPad 10th Gen (10.9 inches) | Trackpad | Long-lasting battery | Front and back protection | Secure magnetic lock | Floating stand with angled viewing | Laptop-style keys | Stylus holder | Displays keyboard percentage charged Pros More affordable Trackpad Long-lasting battery Sleek design Stylus holder True laptop feel Cons No 10.2-inch model No adjustable angle No backlit keys Limited color options The ESR Rebound Magnetic Keyboard is another affordable iPad keyboard case option, much closer to $100 than other options on this list. It features similar top specs, such as a trackpad, a long-lasting battery, a floating, angled stand for viewing, laptop-style keys, a stylus holder, and front and back protection.With a sleek, laptop-esque design, the ESR Rebound can transform any space into a workstation. It is perfect for students, on-the-go users, or hybrid workers. The Rebound case is also available in white or black.Current ESR customers said they liked the keyboard's overall value, responsiveness, lightweight feel, and strong magnetic connection, giving it a 4.6/5 star rating on the ESR website. However, some users said the case closes oddly with a stylus in the storage slot and that the number keys are sometimes hard to reach depending on an outside case.Multiple customers said that the quality is premium and so are the features. "The quality definitely feels premium ... if the Magic Keyboard is out of budget, then this is a good value product," said one customer on the site.Author's Note: Save 18% with code BACK24 at ESR's website.ESR Rebound Magnetic Keyboardspecs: Dimensions: 10 x 6.7 x 0.5 inches|Connectivity:iPad 10th Gen (10.9 inches) | Trackpad | Long-lasting battery | Front and back protection | Secure magnetic lock | Floating stand with angled viewing | Laptop-style keys | Stylus holder | Displays keyboard percentage charged Read More Show Expert Take Show less Show less View now at Best Buy The Logitech Slim Folio Keyboard case is designed, as named, to have a sleek and stylish profile while still delivering function. This keyboard case is available for most iPad models out of any other case on this list and has remained a mainstay on the market for several years.The Slim Folio features a three-year battery life, a stylus holder, front and back protection, two fixed viewing angles, and three modes of use (type, sketch, and read). It is made of water-repellent, easy-to-clean fabric that is durable for long use and has a one-year limited warranty. However, there are no trackpads or backlit keys.Current Logitech Slim Folio customers said they like the keyboard's overall value, function, fit, and typing capabilities, which has an overall rating of 4/5 stars on the Logitech website. Several customers said they were repeats after purchasing a new Slim Folio after upgrading their iPad models. "After years of using my previous Slim Folio, I realized I needed to replace the keyboard. The keyboard is easy to set up, and I replace batteries when needed and type messages on my iPad. Highly recommend this product," one customer wrote.Logitech Slim Folio Keyboardspecs: Dimensions: 7.4 x 10 x 0.8 inches |Connectivity:iPad 5th, 6th, 7th, 8th, 9th, 10th Gen (9.7 inches, 10.2 inches, 10.9 inches) | 3 year battery life | Slim design | Stylus holder | Front and back protection |Water repellent, easy-to-clean fabric and durable plastic material | Two fixed viewing angles | 3 modes of use (type, sketch, read) | 1 year limited warranty Pros Slim design Available for iPads 5th Gen and up Long-lasting battery Stylus holder Cons No trackpad Limited color options No backlit keys No adjustable angles The Logitech Slim Folio Keyboard case is designed, as named, to have a sleek and stylish profile while still delivering function. This keyboard case is available for most iPad models out of any other case on this list and has remained a mainstay on the market for several years.The Slim Folio features a three-year battery life, a stylus holder, front and back protection, two fixed viewing angles, and three modes of use (type, sketch, and read). It is made of water-repellent, easy-to-clean fabric that is durable for long use and has a one-year limited warranty. However, there are no trackpads or backlit keys.Current Logitech Slim Folio customers said they like the keyboard's overall value, function, fit, and typing capabilities, which has an overall rating of 4/5 stars on the Logitech website. Several customers said they were repeats after purchasing a new Slim Folio after upgrading their iPad models. "After years of using my previous Slim Folio, I realized I needed to replace the keyboard. The keyboard is easy to set up, and I replace batteries when needed and type messages on my iPad. Highly recommend this product," one customer wrote.Logitech Slim Folio Keyboardspecs: Dimensions: 7.4 x 10 x 0.8 inches |Connectivity:iPad 5th, 6th, 7th, 8th, 9th, 10th Gen (9.7 inches, 10.2 inches, 10.9 inches) | 3 year battery life | Slim design | Stylus holder | Front and back protection |Water repellent, easy-to-clean fabric and durable plastic material | Two fixed viewing angles | 3 modes of use (type, sketch, read) | 1 year limited warranty Read More Show Expert Take Show less What is the best iPad keyboard case? We love the Logitech Combo Touch iPad keyboard for its simple connectivity and lightweight build. Consider this overview of the best iPad keyboard cases to see how they stack up against the best keyboards. Remember the price you're willing to spend and the display size of your particular iPad.Best iPad keyboard caseCostDimensionsiPad display size and compatibilityLogitech Combo Touch Keyboard $1500.89 x 7.68 x 10.12 inchesiPad 7th, 8th, 9th, 10th Gen (10.2 inches, 10.9 inches)Apple Magic Keyboard Folio $25011.69 x 5.04 x 0.76 inchesiPad 10th Gen (10.9 inches)Zagg Pro Keys with Trackpad$10011.5 x 8.5 x 1.5 inchesiPad 7th, 8th, 9th (10.2 inches)ESR Rebound Magneitc Keyboard Case$15010 x 6.7 x 0.5 inches iPad 10th Gen (10.9 inches)Logitech Slim Folio Keyboard $607.4 x 10 x 0.8 inches iPad 5th, 6th, 7th, 8th, 9th, 10th Gen (9.7 inches, 10.2 inches, 10.9 inches)*MSRP at the time of writing. Please note that actual prices may vary depending on available sales, deals, discounts, and coupons. Show more Which is the right iPad keyboard case for you? The best keyboard case for you depends on what you're looking for and how you want to use your keyboard case. Here's how our top picks compare and ZDNET's recommendations for which one may be right for you.Choose this best iPad keyboard case...If you want...Logitech Combo Touch Keyboard Our pick for the best iPad keyboard case overall, promising ample protection, performance, and value backed by ZDNET's own testing.Apple Magic KeyboardA pricier iPad keyboard case that works seamlessly with Apple's integrated ecosystem.Zagg Pro Keys with TrackpadA budget-friendly iPad keyboard case we'd recommend that doesn't sacrifice on features.ESR Rebound Magnetic Keyboard CaseA mid-range, yet functional iPad keyboard case with top features.Logitech Slim Folio Keyboard A lightweight, budget-friendly, and ultra-functional keyboard for most iPad models. Show more Factors to consider when choosing an iPad keyboard case: When choosing the best iPad keyboard cases, keeping a few things in mind is probably good. We recommend looking out for a few factors while searching for the perfect case.Size:A keyboard must have ergonomics to help you work better. Look for an iPad keyboard case that will fit your iPad but also hold a nicely sized keyboard for comfortable use.Protection:An iPad keyboard case is hardly worth it if it does not protect your iPad, so look for models that offer additional protection to ensure your device stays safe. A keyboard is great, but it's probably not worth your investment if it doesn't offer protection.Features: Not all keyboard cases are created equal, and they don't all offer the same features. Consider if you want or need a trackpad, stylus holder, adjustable stand, and other features to help narrow your search and make it easier to find your top contenders.Connection:Whether it uses Bluetooth or a magnetic connection, consider which type of connection will work best for your iPad, your needs, and how you want to use it.Cost:Set a budget you're comfortable with before searching the market. This will help narrow your options and ensure you don't overspend proportionate to your expected use. If you know you'll be using a keyboard everyday, then it might be worth spending more to find a top quality case.Also: The best iPads you can buy Show more How did we choose these iPad keyboard cases? ZDNET's team combined personal experience and testing, in-depth research, and our expansive knowledge and testing of the iPad line and its compatible accessories to consider the best iPad keyboard cases on the market.If we think another product is worth your money, we'll update this list or write a spotlight review highlighting its best qualities and specifying who it's for. We also routinely scour the web for new products worthy of testing, follow news on product rollouts and upgrades, and source the best deals. Show more What are the iPad display sizes? The base model iPad has changed display sizes several times with each new iteration. Here's a basic guide for display size to remember while you shop. Pay attention to your iPad model to ensure you get the correct size of the keyboard case. The iPad 10th Gen is the newest base model of the iPad available.iPad 10th Gen: 10.9 inchesiPad 9th Gen: 10.2 inchesiPad 8th Gen: 10.2 inchesiPad 7th Gen: 10.2 inchesiPad 5th and 6th Gen: 9.7 inchesThe 4th and 5th Gen iPad Air models also have a 10.9-inch display, and the latest iPad Pro models have either an 11-inch or 12.9-inch display (iPad Pro 11-inch 4th Gen or iPad Pro 12.9-inch 6th Gen). You can compare sizes and see display and model information on the Apple website. Show more What are the new iPad models? Apple announced the 6th-generation iPad Air and the 7th-generation iPad Pro models on May 7, 2024.Also:How to order the new iPad Air, iPad Pro, Magic Keyboard, and Apple Pencil ProThe new iPad Air comes in two sizes for the first time (11 inches and 13 inches) and features the M2 chip. In addition, the iPad Air now starts at 128GB instead of the mere 64GB that Apple previous included in the base model. Show more What is the newest base model iPad? The iPad 10th Gen is the most current base model iPad, released in 2022. Show more Is an iPad keyboard case worth it? Much like any other investment, it's a good idea to think about how you'd use a keyboard case, how often, and in what settings before dropping cash on something. If you frequently work from your iPad and do typing-intense tasks (especially on the go), then a keyboard case is probably worth your money.On the other hand, if you only use your iPad for entertainment, streaming, gaming, or not every day, you may not even need a keyboard case. Rest assured that I won't tell you how to spend your money, and if you've got money to burn -- go ahead and get one. But if you think you'd only need a keyboard in a here-or-there situation, a cheaper keyboard case or even a standalone Bluetooth keyboard could be better options. Show more How do iPad keyboard cases work? An iPad keyboard case fits snugly around your iPad to offer protection against bumps and scrapes. It typically incorporates other features, as well, like an adjustable stand and an Apple Pencil holder. Show more How much does an iPad keyboard case cost? The cost of an iPad keyboard case can vary significantly, depending on factors like size, design, brand, and features. Expect to spend over $100 on a quality iPad keyboard case, and keep in mind that some options will easily run you closer to $200 or more. Apple's Magic Keyboard Folio for example, is $249. Show more Where can I buy iPad keyboard cases? You can find iPad keyboard cases at many major retailers and individually at company websites. Chains like Best Buy, Walmart, Target, and Amazon frequently sell many of the popular keyboard case options on the market. You even buy select, non-Apple keyboard cases (as well as Apple models) directly from Apple, too. Show more Do I have to use an Apple Magic Keyboard? The various Apple Magic Keyboard options, designed for respective iPad models, are certainly not your only keyboard options. While the Apple keyboards are designed by Apple and made to maximize your iPad's features, they often come with a hefty price tag. Other brands like Zagg, Logitech, Brydge, ESR, and more have similar keyboard cases that offer similar features for a lower cost, though many will still cost over $100. Show more Do all keyboard cases have a trackpad? No, not all iPad keyboard cases have trackpads. Don't assume that because one brand's model offers one others will, either. Each keyboard case will offer different features, from trackpads, to stylus holders, to adjustable stands, and more.If you're looking for a trackpad feature, be sure to narrow your search parameters and pay close attention -- many cases, especially those for older iPad models, only offer keyboard cases without trackpads, though you can always use a bluetooth mouse, too. Show more Are there alternative iPad keyboard cases to consider?Yes, there are many options for keyboard cases on the market from various brands. Here are a few more to check out.iPad accessories to considerIf you want to optimize your iPad's capabilities, here's a few more accessories to consider -- like a screen protector and an iPad styuls -- to level-up your functionality and your protection. Further ZDNET Tech Coverage Smartphones Smartwatches Tablets Laptops TVs Other Tech Resources ZDNET Recommends

StrandsNYTLooking for Tuesdays Strands hints, spangram and answers? You can find them here:We have had a tough week of Strands puzzles so far, and this one may not make things any easier for you, if my solve time is anything to go off of.How To Play StrandsThe New York Times Strands puzzle is a play on the classic word search. Its in beta for now, which means itll only stick around if enough people play it every day.Theres a new game of Strands to play every day. The game will present you with a six by eight grid of letters. The aim is to find a group of words that have something in common, and youll get a clue as to what that theme is. When you find a theme word, it will remain highlighted in blue.Youll also need to find a special word called a spangram. This tells you what the words have in common. The spangram links two opposite sides of the board. While the theme words will not be a proper name, the spangram can be a proper name. When you find the spangram, it will remain highlighted in yellow.Every letter is used once in one of the theme words and spangram. You can connect letters vertically, horizontally and diagonally, and its possible to switch directions in the middle of a word. If youre playing on a touchscreen, double tap the last letter to submit your guess.MORE FOR YOUIf you find three valid words of at least four letters that are not part of the theme, youll unlock the Hint button. Clicking this will highlight the letters that make up one of the theme words.Be warned: Youll need to be on your toes. Sometimes youll need to fill the missing word(s) in a phrase. On other days, the game may revolve around synonyms or homophones. The difficulty will vary from day to day, and the puzzle creators will try to surprise you sometimes.What Is Todays Strands Hint?Here is the official hint by the NYT and then I will do my own after that.You say you want a revolutionAnd my hint is:Spin to winWhat Are Todays Strands Answers?The spangram goes first and after that, the full answer list.SPINNERSAnd here is where you find that on the board:StrandsNYTAnd the answer list is:WHEELBALLERINAPINWHEELFOOTBALLEARTHDRYERStrands NYTSo a lot of things that either spin, rotate or turn in some way, most of them in different ways, like a football spiral is pretty unlike anything in this list. I think the ones people may have the most trouble with are Pinwheel, as I mean, who uses pinwheels now, and Ballerina, which is more obvious but not the kind of thing you might be looking for.Follow me on Twitter, YouTube, Bluesky and Instagram.Pick up my sci-fi novels the Herokiller series and The Earthborn Trilogy.