Microsoft has released a keyboard for mobile devices that can be used for computers running on any operating system between Windows, Android and iOS.
Microsoft said that it is addressing the issue that customers with multiple devices face. With multiple devices, there is the frequent problem of the need of carrying several accessories for each device, which is a bigger issue for people who are always on the go. The company said that the Universal Mobile Keyboard will help address the issue by working with Android devices, iPads, iPhones and Windows tablets.
The Universal Mobile Keyboard is the company's latest move in its current strategy of providing hardware, software and services to rival platforms of Windows. Users operating the keyboard may switch between the Android, iOS and Windows Bluetooth modes through pressing a dedicated button.
A Microsoft keyboard that can be used for iOS and Android devices isn't really a breakthrough product for Windows, but the company does something different for the Universal Mobile Keyboard in that it is the only keyboard among all the products of Microsoft that does not have the traditional key for Windows.
The keyboard features an Android home key and the Apple cmd key, which are staple features for the keyboards of the rival platforms. However, despite the fact that the keyboard may also be used with Windows tablet computers, there is no Windows logo anywhere, either on a key or in the body.
The specific keyset was chosen to be used for the device to give a feel that the user is operating the keyboard of a lightweight laptop, which makes the experience both familiar and comfortable.
The Universal Mobile Keyboard has a rechargeable internal battery that, according to Microsoft, will last for six months of usage on a single charge, and will last for a full day's use with just a charging time of 10 minutes.
The keyboard also has a removable stand integrated into the device's body that also serves as the keyboard's shield to make sure that the keys do not suffer any damage while not being used.
"The Universal Mobile Keyboard was built with portability in mind. It's easy and quick to set up, especially on the go. Simply open the protective cover and the keyboard automatically turns on, and connects using Bluetooth. Shut the cover, and it instantly turns off," wrote Suzanne Choney of the Microsoft News Center in the official Windows blog post that unveiled the product.
Microsoft plans to introduce the Universal Mobile Keyboard into the market next month. The device will have a retail price of $79.95.
