Microsoft has officially expanded its line of peripherals with several new products. The most interesting newcomer is the Wedge Mobile keyboard, of which the cover serves two functions. Apart from protecting the keyboard during transport, it has a hinge that allows the lid to be used as a tablet stand as well.
It's not surprising that Microsoft's creation is geared towards the upcoming torrent of Windows 8 tablets, with the Wedge Mobile featuring several hotkeys for the operating system as well, such as the button to bring up the Charms Bar. Microsoft claims the keyboard is also suited for use with Windows 7 and Mac OS X. The Wedge Mobile communicates with the system wirelessly by means of a Bluetooth connection and requires two triple-A batteries. A nice touch is that the keyboard is automatically turned off when the cover is attached. Extendable feet provide a way to raise the keyboard slightly.
With a keyboard comes a matching mouse, in this case the Wedge Touch. This input device has a relatively compact and square design, with the top functioning as a large touchpad that supports both horizontal and vertical scrolling. Microsoft reports its the smallest mouse they've ever created. It also features Bluetrack technology, which should allow it to function on virtually every surface. The mouse also connects via Bluetooth.
Microsoft's new Wedge Mobile and Wedge Touch devices have recommended prices of respectively $79.95 (£51) en $69.95 (£38) , which includes a 3-year warranty.
