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Some iPad cases (particularly those that look like book covers) provide a feature that when the cover closes the iPad enters suspended mode and when the cover opens the iPad wakes up. The one provided by the link claims it provides this functionality through a magnetic strip. Does this mean iPads have the ability to sense nearby magnetic fields built in? Why and how does this work?

PS. It appears Apple's Smart Covers provide this functionality too.

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Apple put the feature into the iPad and Smart Cover, then others copied it adding magnets to the outer edge of their covers. I'm pretty sure this started with the iPad 2/Smart Cover and wasn't available on the first gen iPad although I may be mistaken. It was in Steve Jobs' last product introduction presentation when he introduced the iPad 2. – Richard Apr 13 '12 at 10:50

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The Smart Cover has a magnet that interacts with the sleep sensor of an iPad. So whenever you close the Smart Cover, iPad will know when to sleep. The same theory for waking up.

Info from MacRumors

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If you have a security system in your house, the "open door" detectors work on the same principle. – Stu Wilson Apr 13 '12 at 7:29

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