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Microsoft Introduces Wireless Desktop Hardware Systems

Microsoft introduced three new wireless desktop hardware systems intended to streamline basic PC functions, such as launching software applications and listening to music. The Wireless Entertainment Desktop hardware includes mice, keyboards and video cameras, as well as a start button, which opens the forthcoming Vista operating system

"We are pushing the envelope on hardware design to meet the new ways consumers are using their PCs at home and in the office," Microsoft hardware designer Dan O'Neil said. "Keyboards and mice are no longer just about typing and clicking - they are an extension of the individual's personality."

Pricing and Availability

The new Microsoft products will be available for the following estimated retail prices:

Wireless Entertainment Desktop 8000: USD 249.95 (U.S.), available February 2007
Wireless Entertainment Desktop 7000: USD149.95 (U.S.), available January 2007
Wireless Laser Desktop 6000: USD 99.95 (U.S.), available September 2006

The Wireless Entertainment Desktop 8000 and the Wireless Entertainment Desktop 7000 are combinations of industrial design and productivity-enhancing features. Both desktops are said to take advantage of Windows Vista to allow users to accomplish everyday tasks.

New features of Windows XP and Windows Vista functionality include:

Windows Start Button: it offers one-touch access to the Windows Start Menu, with search functionality built in for searching the Internet or the PC
Gadget Button: it reveals or hides the personalised information consumers use most, such as weather and sports
Media Centre Start Button: it allows users to instantly access media, including movies and music
Windows Live Call Button: it provides users with the easiest way to start an instant messaging session or a video call—it’s speed dialling for web cams

Microsoft's new Wireless Notebook Presenter Mouse 8000 can function as a slide presenter, a laser pointer with digital ink, a media remote control and a 2.4GHz Bluetooth® laser notebook mouse. The bottom side of mouse features all the presentation control buttons, including forward, back and full screen, and a laser pointer as well. The digital ink would also let the user "telestrate" on presentations for added emphasis. This will be available in mid-October 2006 with an for USD 99.95.

To address the growing demand for more comfortable PC tools, Microsoft has released a Natural Wireless Laser Mouse 6000.This will be available in January 2007 for an estimated retail price of USD 79.95. It includes the following features:

An elevated thumb scoop shelf maintains hand rotation to reduce pressure on the carpal tunnel
A rounded shape more closely matches the relaxed curve of the hand to reduce finger extension
An angled profile reduces wrist pronation (turning or rotating)
The vertical right side allows the side of the hand to rest comfortably on the desk while improving wrist postureA rubberised thumb scoop and sides of the mouse provide comfort and easy lifting


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