United States : Microsoft Hardware Delivers on Windows 8, Good Looks and Mobility [TendersInfo (India)]

As it celebrates its 30-year anniversary, Microsoft Hardware announces the launch of several new devices, all finely tuned for use with Windows 8. Four of the devices are Bluetooth-enabled, pocket-sized yet sturdy, and specially designed for use on the go including with tablets.

New mice and keyboards are on the way, and are specifically designed for mobile and for Windows 8, Microsoft announced today.

In the coming weeks and months, the company will introduce two new Bluetooth-enabled keyboards and mice to the market the Wedge Touch Mouse, the Wedge Mobile Keyboard, the Sculpt Touch Mouse, and the Sculpt Mobile Keyboard. On October 26, the general availability date of the new Windows 8 operating system, Microsoft will also release updated Windows 8 gestures for the Microsoft Touch Mouse.

It s an exciting time for the whole company for lots of reasons, but this is something we re thrilled about and we can t wait to see people s reactions, says Brett Kelleran, general manager of Microsoft Hardware.

The bevy of keyboards and mice, which are specifically tuned to Windows 8 and designed for mobile computing, is the largest collection of Bluetooth offerings the company has ever announced at one time. The launch also comes during Microsoft Hardware s 30th anniversary year.

For 30 years, we ve been creating products designed to light up features in Microsoft software and making it easier to get things done. It s part of our DNA, Kelleran says. In that way, it s fitting that we are showcasing our first set of hardware products designed and optimized for Windows 8. It s the reason why our group was formed and, in these products, that s shining through.

As PCs get smaller, lighter, and thinner, they are appearing with fewer and fewer USB ports. Coupled with a growing ubiquity of BlueTooth-enabled PCs, there s a clear trend developing.

It s only natural that keyboards and mice adapt accordingly, Kelleran says.

The new keyboards and mice have special touches designed for just such use, including a cover for the Wedge Mobile Keyboard that doubles as a stand for your tablet, a mouse that sleeps when the computer sleeps to save batteries, and the battery door cover slides instead of unclipping so users on the go won t lose it. And with the Bluetooth-enabled devices, there s no need for cords or wires, and no need to take up a USB port.

We ve thought about each and every detail to ensure our customers have a great mobile experience, Kelleran says.

In addition, the devices are in sync with Windows 8 in ways that really light up the software the keyboards have Windows 8 shortcut keys for searching, sharing, changing settings, and device access, and the mice are designed to have the same precision, control, and fluid interaction a customer would have if they were using a touch screen.