Microsoft has unveiled a number of new accessories, including an Xbox One controller for PC gaming and a keyboard for iOS, Android and Windows devices.
The accessories represent a shift in focus at the company, which has not previously offered many items that work universally. The only Windows-specific device in this batch of items is the Xbox One controller, which pairs with Windows computers.
The Universal Mobile Keyboard includes a number of interesting features. First of all, it is a "one size fits all" device, meaning that any tablet or smartphone can fit in the slot that holds it up, provided the device is not too large. A newer iPad will fit in the device, but an older-generation iPad may not.
Secondly, the keyboard features a button that Microsoft is calling "OS Switch," which doubles as the Windows "Control" key, the iOS "Command" key, and the Android Home button.
The keyboard uses Bluetooth and also doubles as a stand and cover for the user's device. Not only that, but the device should increase productivity, with Microsoft estimating that users can type two times as fast with a hardware keyboard as they can while using an on-screen keyboard on a tablet. The keyboard lasts around six months on a single charge, it says.
While there is no reason for mobile devices to work better with a keyboard just because it has the Microsoft label on it, Microsoft has a history of creating quality computer peripherals.
Its Universal Mobile Keyboard will sell for $70, which is rather pricey but could be worth it depending on the quality of the device.
The company has also released two mice. One comes in two versions -- one model is an improved version of the Microsoft Arc Mouse with Bluetooth 4.0, while the other model is the low-power version of Bluetooth, giving the mouse the ability to last six months on a single charge. The other mouse is the Wireless Mobile Mouse 3500 Limited Edition, which has a dongle, unlike the improved Arc mouse.
The remaining accessory that Microsoft released Sept. 16 is a wired Xbox One controller for Windows, giving users another way to play Xbox games such as Halo, which has been ported to Windows. Until now users had to choose between an Xbox 360 controller or a gamepad from other companies.
According to Microsoft, users can wirelessly control an Xbox One with the controller by plugging it into a PC, essentially helping tie the two platforms together.
Microsoft will release the two mice in September, the Universal Keyboard in October and the Xbox One controller in November.
