Microsoft just rolled out a new wireless display adapter (WDA), and it is a significant improvement over the last one the company showcased in 2014.
With the former wireless display adapter, the company offered a convenient tool for streaming content from a mobile device to a big-screen TV, sans cables and wires.
The 2016 WDA variant packs a sleeker design, less latency and a price tag that brings bang to the buck.
You can preorder the device for $49.95 in the Microsoft Store, and it will begin shipping to customers in March.
The Wireless Display Adapter manufactured by Microsoft does exactly the same thing as a Miracast dongle plugged into your TV. Thanks to its specs, you can stream audio-video content from devices with wireless display protocol support. This includes a wide number of Android phones and tablets, meaning that Apple loyalists will be left out. Should Microsoft update its wireless adapter with iOS support, we will make sure to let you know.
The gadget comes with Wireless-Display compatibility, meaning that Intel's wireless display protocol will work on Microsoft's WDA.
One sizable advantage of Microsoft's device is that streaming can be done without an Internet connection. The device works on Wi-Fi-Direct, a protocol that insiders from the company say is faster than Bluetooth when it comes to wireless transfer.
It is safe to assume that Microsoft sees the adapter working closely with Windows devices, be it smartphones, notebooks or tablets.
A nice touch comes from the fact that the adapter lets Windows users mirror their display on a TV, allowing for better visualization than on smaller devices. Mirroring might be tempting to those who wish to extend their desktop space and choose to use their big-screen TV instead of buying a second monitor.
The wireless adapter uses an HDMI port to connect to the display, drawing power from a USB cable.
"The adapter delivers a reliable connection up to a 23-foot range," Microsoft says.
It should be noted that your mobile device containing streamed files should run on Windows 8.1, 64-bit version or Windows 10, 64-bit variant. The manufacturer doesn't guarantee full functionality for non-HDCP devices.
