Offers Users Protection While Preserving Functionality of Surface Features Company Will Also Participate in Microsoft’s “Designed For Surface” Program to Help Address Growing Demand for Surface Accessories
Kensington, a worldwide leader in delivering smart. safe. simple.™ desktop and mobile computing accessories, today announced the launch of its Kensington® BlackBelt™ 1st Degree Rugged Case for Microsoft® Surface™ Pro 3. The case allows users to invest in valuable drop protection that retains full functionality and access to core features, such as the Surface kickstand and Type Cover keyboard.
The Surface Pro 3 has become increasingly popular with professionals, offering an ideal combination of portability and productivity to replace the laptop. But because accidents can happen, Kensington’s engineers worked closely with Microsoft in designing the BlackBelt 1st Degree Rugged Case. The case offers military-grade protection for the Surface Pro 3 while maintaining full functionality for the Surface kickstand and Type Cover keyboard, as well as access to the USB port, charging port, buttons and cameras.
“The Kensington BlackBelt offers users the absolute best value in tablet drop protection for the Surface Pro 3,” said Jim Murakami, Global Product Manager, Kensington. “The BlackBelt has passed military-grade testing protocols against drops and scratches — plus it provides non-slip grip. Strategic cutouts in the case offer full functionality for the Surface kickstand and Type Cover, as well as easy access to other ports and buttons. This rugged case doesn’t disappoint when it comes to protection, portability, and productivity.”
Kensington also announced its participation in the Microsoft “Designed for Surface” Program, empowering the organization to develop Surface-specific accessories for business and consumer use. The goal of the Microsoft Designed for Surface Program is to provide third-party hardware accessory manufacturers specific technical guidance to help create exceptional accessories that work seamlessly with Surface devices.
“We are pleased to welcome Kensington as a member of our Designed for Surface program, which was created to address the growing demand for Surface accessories for use in business, at home, and on the go,” said Brian Crum, Senior Product Manager, Microsoft Surface. “With its rugged specifications and design that preserves the full functionality of the tablet, Kensington’s new BlackBelt 1st Degree for Surface Pro 3 meets our requirement for accessories that make Surface more useful, and users more productive as a result. We look forward to further collaboration with Kensington as the company brings more innovative Surface accessories to market.”
“People are increasingly seeking devices that span work and play, can be easily managed and configured, and have the right software to get the job done,” added Murakami. “We’re excited to participate in the Microsoft Designed for Surface Program for these reasons — particularly in conjunction with the launch of Kensington’s BlackBelt 1st Degree Rugged Case. Kensington’s participation further demonstrates our commitment to serving the needs of customers relying on Microsoft devices and services.”
Key features of the Kensington® BlackBelt™ 1st Degree Rugged Case for Microsoft® Surface™ Pro 3 (SKU K97416WW) SRP $39.99
- Military-Grade Drop Protection – A strong, cushioned layer of TPU surrounds the Surface Pro 3 and meets the MIL-STD-810G testing protocols for all-around protection against drops and scratches.
- Unobstructed Access – Strategic cutouts in the case allow users to take full advantage of the Surface kick stand, Type Cover, buttons, ports and cameras.
- Non-Slip Grip – Rubberized texture makes the case easier to hold and prevents it from sliding off a table or desk.
- Raised Bezel – Protects the corners and screen from scratches and damage.
- Stylus Holder – Elastic loop can be removed or attached any time.
Notes to editors
About Kensington
Kensington is a leading provider of desktop and mobile device accessories, trusted by IT, educators, business and home office professionals around the world for more than 35 years. Kensington products empower people to dynamically interact with content, creating a better working experience for productive performance. In both office and mobile environments, Kensington’s extensive portfolio of award-winning products provides trusted security, desktop productivity innovations, and ergonomic well-being. Our core competencies in engineering, industrial design, product quality and responsive customer support make Kensington The Professionals’ Choice™.
Headquartered in San Mateo, California, Kensington operates as the technology division of ACCO Brands (NYSE: ACCO), one of the world’s largest designers, marketers and manufacturers of branded business, academic and consumer products, sold in more than 100 countries across the globe.
Kensington is the inventor and worldwide leader in laptop security locks, the acknowledged leader of Trackball innovation and offers a broad range of premium-branded desktop productivity solutions.