I can't really tell you about the "shortcomings" of the Apple case. I had one delivered yesterday. Fedex showed up with the case about an hour after UPS dropped off the iPad. What's to say. It's a rubbery textured sleeve that fits like a glove. The iPad just slides into a slot and a flap of vinyl tucks over and behind it to prevent it from sliding out. In addition to giving some protection to the screen when not in use, it provides a very grippy surface for the expensive electronics inside. I've constantly used the "tilt" configuration with the cover flap tucked under the the iPad and into a little tab to keep it in place. That position is great for typing with the iPad on your lap. The cover does add some bulk. The naked iPad feels very nice in your hand while the case makes it feel a little bigger. But, I don't see how you could get much more minimal than the Apple case while still providing some reasonable protection.