Microsoft makes software and hardware too, and today the company is introducing the Universal Mobile Keyboard that works on Windows devices as well as on the iPad family, iPhone, and Android devices.
The “universal” Bluetooth keyboard is compact and light weight, it’ll be available in October for a retail price of $79.95. Microsoft is touting the Universal Mobile Keyboard as the “One keyboard for your tablet and smartphone”, though it might come to the surprise of many that this peripheral isn’t yet compatible with Windows Phone devices, because the operating system does not support Bluetooth HID, so it only works with iPhones and Android devices.
To get the keyboard working, the system requirement is Windows 8 or higher, Windows RT, Android 4.0 or higher, and Apple iOS v6 or higher. You can pair up to three devices with different operating systems and you can switch between devices with a dedicated button, which also enables the operating system specific keys such as the Android Home Button, iOS Command key, and Windows Control key. The keyboard also comes with cover that works as stand to hold your phone or tablet.
There is a rechargeable battery integrated with the keyboard that should last up to six month on a single charge.
The Microsoft Universal Mobile Keyboard will be sold at the Microsoft Store retails and online. It’ll be first available in the U.S. and Canada, but new markets will be unveiled soon after.
But that’s not all! On September 16, Microsoft also announced a few new accessories for PCs, including a new version of the Microsoft Arc Touch Mouse with a Bluetooth 4.0 Low-Energy technology compatible with Windows 8.x and Windows RT. The Arc Mouse will be available later this month for $69.95.
There is also the new Wireless Mobile Mouse 3500 Limited Edition that comes with new 3D-textured designs and uses Microsoft’s BlueTrack technology and plug-in-and-go USB nano transceiver. It’ll be available in September for $29.95, online and at the different retailers.
Finally, Microsoft is also announcing the Xbox One Controller + Cable for Windows. The controller, which by the way comes with a 9 feet long cable, will be available in November for $59.95 at the Microsoft Store and other retailers.
Source Microsoft, Blogging Windows