Microsoft intros new mice and keyboards tuned for Windows 8

Microsoft has announced multiple keyboards and mice tuned specifically for systems running Windows 8. The majority of new devices are Bluetooth-enabled and compact enough to fit in your pocket, making them an ideal solution for tablet use.

The Microsoft Wedge Mobile Keyboard is a full-size ultra-slim board that features a minimalist design. The $79.95 unit is designed for tablet use and includes Windows 8 Hot Keys for quick access to things like system settings, search and the Charms interface. The keyboard connects via Bluetooth and ships with a smart cover that not only protects the input device but also automatically kills power when used to conserve battery life.

Microsoft’s Sculpt Mobile Keyboard features a familiar Comfort Curve design like we have seen on past ergonomic boards. This typer also features Windows 8 Hot Keys, Bluetooth connectivity and enjoys 10 months of battery life which can be monitored and controlled via a two-color indicator and on/off switch, respectively. The Sculpt comes with an MSRP of $49.95.

The aptly-named Wedge Touch Mouse is small enough to fit in your pocket and provides four-way Touch scrolling and navigation. The pointer utilizes Microsoft BlueTrack Technology which allows it to work on nearly any surface, an added benefit for on-the-go use. The $69.95 Wedge mouse conserves battery power by automatically turning off alongside the system it is paired with.

The $49.95 ambidextrous Sculpt Touch Mouse is more of a traditional mouse that includes a four-way touch scroll strip, BlueTrack Technology and Bluetooth connectivity. Microsoft also points out that the Touch Mouse released last year will receive a software update for Windows 8 gesture use.

All of the devices are expected to be ready around the same time that Windows 8 launches inlate October.

Two New Xbox 360 Accessories Announced

Microsoft has announced that it will be releasing two new products to it’s line of Xbox accessories. The Xbox 360 Wireless Headset with Bluetooth and the Xbox 360 Media Remote.

Similar to the Playstation 3′s Bluetooth headset, the Xbox 360 Wireless Headset w/ Bluetooth will allow you to chat over your Xbox or on the phone wirelessly, however, unlike the Playstation’s Bluetooth headset, the key feature in Xbox’s new Headset is it’s ability to be connected to your phone and your Xbox at the same time, taking multi-tasking to a new level. From the product description;

“With this all-in-one device, gamers can go from chatting with their friends on Xbox LIVE to talking on a Bluetooth® enabled mobile phone without changing headsets. The device is compatible with Bluetooth® devices such as mobile phones and PCs in addition to being able to connect to Xbox 360 through the console’s standard radio frequencies.”

To do this is a simple flick of a switch which will change the headset mode from Xbox to Bluetooth without having to disconnect from the device to switch over. The headset comes with a wide range of features as well, including Bluetooth 3.0 and Noise Cancellation. The battery is said to last up to 8 hours in-use or 300 hours on standby in a single charge.

The look of the device makes my old wireless headset look clunky, the new headset comes in a sleek black with the ‘Xbox 360′ logo on it making it look like the new Xbox 360 Elites.

The device goes on sale this November for $59.99
The new Xbox 360 Media Remote is also a re-design of an older accessory. The Media Remote is a new and more useful take on the older Xbox Media Center Remote. What makes this remote an upgrade is the new ability to use the remote to control both your TV and your Xbox. The device will be supported by Hulu Plus, Netflix and ESPN as well as other Xbox Live programs.

Media playback controls include play/pause, skip forward, fast forward, skip back, fast back, and display to control DVD, CD, or streamed media. The TV controls include power on/off, volume up/down, mute and TV input. The Media Remote’s menu navigation controls include A, B, X, Y buttons, D-pad navigation, back and select. Live TV, if provided on the Xbox 360 by your TV service provider, can also be controlled with the Xbox 360 Media Remote.

The remote looks much like the headset in that it comes in slick black similar to the Xbox Elite look, however, I do not know if the buttons will light up like the old Media Center Remote did.

The Device will also be on sale this November for $19.99