The biggest gripe from people that I know who use their iPads with frequency is that they have a hard time using it outdoors. The glare of the sun drastically reduces the visibility of the screen preventing it from a majority of its mobile uses especially if reading a book. Those who prefer to catch up on the latest novel or business autobiography poolside are better off with a Kindle. However, the iclipse removes this barrier and is an excellent accessory.

While it is a tad awkward and looks funny when sitting on the beach in designer shades using this screen, it does the trick magically allowing you to see the screen clearly and distinguish colors on the screen as if you were inside.

The entire device folds up for easy carrying, and once it is needed, you simply unfold and unbutton the base to wrap it around your iPad. Snap buttons keep everything in place while you are using it, and the sturdy construction keeps it from getting bent while in your bag or briefcase.

It is not only ideal for readers, but also active users of their iPad. When I travel with mine, I often carry an accompanying keyboard device so that I can do emails or type short documents. Other travel writers mention to me that they find it useful for viewing or editing photographs.

On my initial trip home after using the iclipse, I was typing on my laptop and noticed that my seatmate was clearly reading what I was typing. It became clear to me that iclipse is not only for preventing glare, but also for preventing unwanted “stare.”

It works well with all three versions of iPad and fits conveniently into a slim pocket or corner of a briefcase or travel bag.

Clocking in at an affordable price of $34.95 at the iclipse website or on Amazon, this is a cheap and worthy device for loyal iPad users who do not mind the extra, protective square footage surrounding their mobile device.