iPad Smart Cover

A new patent application filed by Apple today describes an "Integrated Visual Notification System for an Accessory Device." In other words, an iPad case that will transmit visual notifications might be in the works.

The text of the application basically describes several possible methods of having an iPad case light up to notify the user of new messages, emails, battery warnings, game notifications, calendar events and so on. The device depicted looks the same as a Smart Cover, having a magnetic three panel front flap that both protects the screen and serves as a stand when opened and folded over. The contents of those three panels are what sets the proposed cover apart.

Apple is one of the few retailers holding an actual Black Friday sale on Black Friday. I think Walmart's sale started the day Halloween ended, or maybe that's when they started playing Christmas music in the stores... I can't remember.

9to5Mac published an early look at Apple's Black Friday sales circular. There are plenty of discounts on MacBooks, various Apple accessories and the iPad. The image is kind of blurry, but it looks like you can save $40 to $60 on an iPad depending on the capacity. (16GB, 32GB, 64GB).

9to5Mac discovered a Smart Cover flaw that allows strangers to access your password protected iPad 2. Thankfully the bug doesn't grant the person complete control over your device, but they could steal your personal information if the conditions are right. The Smart Cover enables someone to bypass your password and unlock the last app you used before turning off the device.

For example, if you were using Contacts before you put your iPad to sleep, a person could unlock your device and access all the information. 9to5Mac recreated the flaw in the video below.

Here's how to recreate it yourself. Make sure your iPad is password protected. Lock the device and hold down the power button until it reaches the turn off slider screen. Close and reopen the Smart Cover. Hit the cancel button at the bottom of the screen. You should have access to the last app you used without entering your password.

Various sources are receiving tips that Apple is recalling certain versions of the Verizon iPad 2. 9to5Mac cited an Apple Store employee who said he's had to send back over 100 tablets already:

"Apple has given all the stores a list of serial numbers to scan, if it’s a match we were told to set aside and ship back to Apple, these are only for Verizon iPads. This was to be done on Monday and continue to scan all shipments thru June 11. I had over one hundred to send back."

Customers who have ordered the CDMA version of the iPad 2 are reporting that FedEx shipments are being returned to the sender in China. Complaints are starting to pile up at the Apple Discussion forums, but Apple has yet to acknowledge any problems.