With its extremely user-friendly interface and seemingly endless usability, the Apple iPhone can pretty much function as a notebook PC — except, of course, for the typing feature. Until recently, the only real way to type more easily with the iPhone was with the Cydia BTStack App, but it only worked with jailbroken iPhones. Thankfully, ION has given loyal iPhone users a real keyboard.

ION, a consumer entertainment technology company, has just announced the iTYPE, a desktop keyboard that’s designed specifically for the iPhone. It’s a full QWERTY keyboard, with a docking station for the iPhone above it. And the best thing about it is that you don’t have to jailbreak — and risk bricking — your iPhone to use the iTYPE.

From the concept photos released during last week’s CES 2010 in Las Vegas, the iTYPE seems very straightforward to use. One can’t help but wonder whether the top portion of the iTYPE can fold upwards towards the user, giving them a better view of their iPhones. Otherwise, using the iTYPE can make you more prone to stiff necks and upper back problems.

Or not. I guess that remains to be seen when ION releases the iTYPE in Q2 2010. Prices are yet to be announced.

Via: Redmond Pie, Gadgetlite