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.

Lenovo intros ultra-slim IdeaCentre Q180 HTPC

Lenovo is reaching out to the HTPC crowd with a new IdeaCentre system it touts as the world's smallest desktop PC. While we can't vouch for their marketing statements, the new IdeaCentre Q180is certainly slim and trim, and it packs a pretty decent feature set for the price.

The base model, priced at $379, uses a dual-core Intel Atom D2700 processor clocked a 2.13GHz with 2GB of RAM and Radeon HD 6450A graphics to keep videos running smooth. You get a 500GB hard drive and plenty of connectivity options, including 802.11n Wi-Fi, four USB 2.0, two USB 3.0, HDMI, VGA ports and 8-in-1 card reader. For $50 more, the next step up pre-build model doubles the RAM to 4GB and adds a DVD drive.

Of course, you can further customize it with up to a 750GB HDD or a 128GB SSD to store all of your media, a Blu-ray drive, and a hand-held keyboard to control your HTPC form the comfort of your couch. You'll aslo have to provide your own monitor or use the VESA mount to fit it behind your HDTV.

The IdeaCentre Q180 is currently available for preorder on Lenovo's website, with units scheduled to start shipping as early as December. A limited time Black Friday promotion brings the price down to $303 or $343, depending on the model, using the coupon code 'BLACKFRIDAYEPE' during checkout.