Microsoft has designed a universal mobile keyboard that’s supposed to work with just about any mobile device, no matter the operating system.
On Microsoft’s official blog, The Fire Hose, the company says that its Universal Mobile Keyboard is designed to work with iOS and Android devices and, of course, Windows tablets and phones.
Microsoft News Center staffer Suzanne Choney writes:
“It’s … common for people to carry multiple mobile devices and use the one that is best suited for the specific scenario they’re in — an iPad while in a coffee shop, a Samsung Galaxy S4 while sitting on an airplane, a Windows laptop in their hotel room.”
Here’s a look at the device in action:
The Universal Mobile Keyboard has an “OS switch” that allows users to select which mobile operating system they’re using at the time. The keyboard features chiclet-style keys that emulate the feel of a laptop keyboard.
According to a report from The Verge, the Universal Mobile Keyboard will also have an Android Home button and a “cmd” key that’s found on Macintosh keyboards. There is no Windows key on the device, though.
Microsoft says the Universal Mobile Keyboard turns on when its protective cover is opened. The keyboard connects to the mobile device a user has at the time via a Bluetooth connection. When the protective cover on the keyboard is closed, it shuts off.
When it’s folded closed, the keyboard is less than a half-inch thick. When it’s opened, the keyboard measures just more than 4 inches from the top row of keys to the bottom. From left to right, the keyboard measures 9.53 inches.
A full overnight charge of the battery can last up to six months, Microsoft says. Just a 10-minute charge allows the battery to work for up to 8 hours.
The Universal Mobile Keyboard also has a stand integrated into it to support tablets and smartphones it’s connected to.
The device will be available in October and will sell for just less than $80. It will be available for purchase at some retailers and at the Microsoft Store.
Image: Microsoft
Aira Bongco
I really like this. Nowadays, people are mostly glued to their devices than to their computers. This is a great opportunity for them to type articles or blogposts even on their gadgets.
That’s actually pretty neat. I like it.
I don’t know if this is possible, or feasible, but I think it would be cool if there was a universal keyboard that could be used on both desktops and mobile devices.