Joby’s line of Gorilla products allows devices to stand and hang in places not originally intended for electronic accessories. The GorillaMobile Yogi for iPad is a contorting stand/case letting the user twist and bend it for use in most any environment.
This model is for the original iPad but Joby is currently working on an iPad 2 version that should be out some time in the summer. Originally Joby created camera accessories but have since expanded into the mobile device world. The GorillaMobile Yogi for iPad is their take on the iPad accessory.
The GorillaMobile Yogi for iPad arrives in a white cardboard box that is reminiscent in size and style to the Apple iPad packaging. The front shows the device holding an iPad in a portrait view. Additional photos of the unit are found on the back of the box showing the different ways the GorillaMobile Yogi can be positioned. There is also an opening to feel one of the flexible legs of the stand.
Inside the box we find the case, flexible Gorilla legs and an instruction/pose book.
The case is composed of polycarbonate with rubber bumpers around the perimeter of the case. This rubber material is grey while the case itself is white and measures 7.7 x 0.7 x 9.8" and weighs 4.4 oz. In the center of the case is a rubber disc to provide addition grip onto the back of the iPad. Seen at the top and right side of the case innards are the back portions of the Gorilla leg clips.
Flipping the case section over we find it is all white with the two clips for the legs in landscape and portrait positions. On the bottom right side is an embossed Joby logo.
The modular legs of the GorillaMobile Yogi for iPad look reminiscent of the tentacles from the Spiderman villain Dr. Octopus. The legs are sturdy yet incredibly mobile and flexible. They can be wrapped or straightened for placing the case in most any position or orientation.
Like the case these legs are made of polycarb onate along with high-quality ABS plastic and TPE grips. They are black in contrast with the white case.
To switch positions of the legs on the GorillaMobile Yogi for iPad simply press on the quick release clip in the center of the legs.
Specifications:
Obviously the screen is exposed with this style of case, so I would not advise dropping the iPad screen down with the GorillaMobile Yogi for iPad in place. The rest of the case seems to provide adequate protection from most environmental harm and minor trauma. The rubber edges provide a nice shock absorber and keep the iPad snuggly within the case.
Removing the iPad from the GorillaMobile Yogi requires a little prying to pull out but not more than similar style hardshell/silicone cases.
Of course what sets the GorillaMobile Yogi for iPad apart from other cases are the Gorilla legs; this is what makes this case unique. Besides acting as a case, the GorillaMobile Yogi can function as a stand or mount for the iPad. The TPE grips allow the legs to grab the surface they are fixed upon.
Portrait and landscape views are easily achieved with a repositioning of the legs on the back of the case.
If you wish to attempt higher degree of difficult mounts you can wrap the GorillaMobile Yogi onto various surfaces such as the back of a chair. The included book of poses demonstrates some contortions you may want to set the GorillaMobile Yogi into; or use your imagination. I know my daughters love playing with this Gorilla legs.
One thing I did notice is that due to the weight of the iPad, if the legs were not able to adhere to the attached surface, the unit would drop downward due to gravity.
Conclusion:
The GorillaMobile Yogi for iPad is a different take on the iPad accessory. It provides a protective rubber gripped case for the Apple tablet. In addition it acts as the most multifunctional stand out on the market. Although I do not care for the appearance of the white case, as it seems too bland, it does its job well.
The octopus style legs are what make the GorillaMobile Yogi shine. They are stiff yet flexible and mobile. The way one can position their iPad is only limited by their imagination and gravity. If your iPad requires a stand or needs to be resting on unusual surfaces then the GorillaMobile Yogi for iPad is the case for you.
Pros:
+Works as portrait/landscape stand
+Nearly infinite variations with the Gorilla legs
+Well constructed
+Case holds iPad securely
Cons:
-Case is a little bland in appearance
-Weight of iPad may pull down unit when hanging by legs
| Grades: | |
| Overall |  |
| Design | |
| Performance | |
To learn more about our review policy please visit this page HERE.