Kensington launches hardware security kit for Apple iPhone and iPad

Hardware security firm Kensington has announced two new products designed to protect iPhone 4 and iPad 2 devices against loss or theft.

The BungeeAir Power Wireless Security Tether (see picture below) uses a wireless connection between the iPhone 4 and a keyfob to alert the owner if the device is left either 15 or 23 metres from the keyfob.

The technology necessary to maintain the connection between the two devices over the 2.4Ghz range is contained within a battery pack that also offers an additional four hours battery life for the smartphone.

This also allows owners to charge the iPhone battery and the Kensington battery simultaneously using a micro-USB connection, a more common charger type than Apple's own device.

The BungeeAir costs £99.99 and includes a card that can be inserted into a slot on the back of the case so the phone can be propped up when watching films or reading documents.

The SecureBack case for the iPad 2, meanwhile, allows the use of a Click-Safe or standard lock, as used on laptops, to physically secure the tablet to a desk.

The case costs £44.99 without a lock and will be available along with the BungeeAir from Wednesday through Kensington's reseller community.

Stephen Hoare, business development director for security products at Kensington,  told V3 that companies need to ensure that mobile devices are well protected.

"With more businesses allowing staff to use tablets and smartphones it's becoming more important for staff to have protection that is easy to use and high quality that can protect their devices from the risk of being lost or stolen," he said.

"With the Information Commissioner's Office now able to fine up to £500,000 for data breaches, it's vital firms undertake whatever precautions they can to mitigate against these threats."

Hoare added that Kensington is considering developing products for other current and future devices, notably the iPhone 5 and iPad 3, but that the popularity of the iPhone 4 and iPad 2 meant the firm had concentrated on these devices first.

The BungeeAir costs £99.99 and alerts iPhone 4 owners if the handset is either 15 or 23 metres from the keyfob.