The extremely cool cats at iFixit tore into Apple’s new Smart Keyboard recently and found some interesting stuff inside.
The teardown, which was published today, reports that Apple used a conductive fabric as well as a key design borrowed from the 12-inch Retina MacBook.
The device uses multiple layers of fabric and plastic to keep it water and stain-resistant, repair firm iFixit noted. This includes microfiber, plastic, and what iFixit calls a nylon layer — in marketing, Apple refers to it simply as polyurethane.
The firm found that the keys themselves use the same switches found in the 12-inch MacBook as well as a stiffening weight in the spacebar to ensure an even press and small vents that allow the air pressure generated by typing to escape.
Apple inserted conductive fabric strips which link the keys to the Smart Connector on the outside of the case, and provide two-way power and data. iFixit suggested that these should be more durable than regular wires or flex cables, something also advertised by Apple.
iFixit stated that while the Smart Keyboard is durable, it is essentially impossible to repair, as opening it and replacing any components effectively destroys it.
The Smart Keyboard retails for US$169 and is available now.
Stay tuned for additional details as they become available.
Via AppleInsider and iFixit