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Fund this: Smart Cargo adds a storage compartment to your iPad

Actually, this Kickstarter project is already fully funded, so now you just have to decide if you want to order yours early.

Rick Broida Senior Editor
Rick Broida is the author of numerous books and thousands of reviews, features and blog posts. He writes CNET's popular Cheapskate blog and co-hosts Protocol 1: A Travelers Podcast (about the TV show Travelers). He lives in Michigan, where he previously owned two escape rooms (chronicled in the ebook "I Was a Middle-Aged Zombie").
Rick Broida
2 min read
The Smart Cargo is a magnetic storage bin for your iPad.
The Smart Cargo is a magnetic storage bin for your iPad. Dotan Saguy
The Smart Cargo is cleverly designed to roll up inside your Smart Cover.
The Smart Cargo is cleverly designed to roll up inside your Smart Cover. Dotan Saguy

You know what the iPad really needs? Storage.

I don't mean more memory, though obviously there's never enough of that. No, the iPad needs a place to store your keys, stylus, sync cable, earbuds, and all the other detritus that typically clutters up your pocket, purse, or carry-on.

While we're waiting for Apple to invent the iDrawer, check out Kickstarter project Smart Cargo for iPad. This clever storage bin integrates with a Smart Cover or Smart Case to keep all your important stuff close at hand.

Created by Dotan Saguy, who invented the Smarter Stand for iPad, the Smart Cargo hit its $10,000 funding goal within 24 hours -- and has currently raised more than triple that amount. Why all the love for this idea? Let's examine the high points.

The hard-plastic Smart Cargo case is shaped so it can roll up inside your Smart Cover, which is smart indeed. The interior is lined with felt in order to protect whatever stuff you decide to stow. And it attaches magnetically, so it's easy to remove. Saguy suggests that the case, once removed, can double as a wrist-rest for iPad typists, but based on the accompanying photo of that idea, I suspect this would be murder on your wrists. It's hard and rounded, not soft and flat. On the flipside, the Smart Cargo does look like a nice, comfy grip for carrying your iPad around.

Interested? You can become an Early Bird backer for as little as $15, a price that includes the Smart Cargo and free shipping within the U.S. (It's expected to retail for $30.) Now for the bad news: It's not expected to ship until October.

While you're mulling that over, hit the comments and let me know what you think of this project. Is it the perfect solution for accessory-laden iPad users, or just a silly magnetic lump that's no better than a separate plastic case?