Microsoft has created a keyboard designed for iOS, Android, and Windows tablets. It’s the latest in a series of moves that underlines the company’s focus on providing software, services, and even hardware for rival platforms to Windows. The new Universal Mobile Keyboard is very similar to Logitech’s K480 keyboard, and Microsoft’s version also includes a button to switch between iOS, Android, and Windows Bluetooth modes.
NO WINDOWS LOGO IN SIGHT
Supporting iOS and Android isn’t unusual for Microsoft’s keyboards, but the company has gone a step further this time. The Universal Mobile Keyboard includes an Android home key and a cmd key typically found on Apple keyboards. Although it also works with Windows tablets, Microsoft hasn’t even stamped a Windows logo on the keyboard — a rare move for the company. That makes this tablet keyboard the only one in Microsoft’s range of wired and wireless keyboards without the traditional Windows key.
A rechargeable battery integrated into the keyboard will last for six months of usage on a single charge according to Microsoft. Just 10 minutes of charging provides enough power for a full day’s use, and a removable integrated stand also acts as a protective shell to prevent any damage to the keys when the keyboard is not in use. Microsoft is planning to release the Universal Mobile Keyboard in October for $79.95.
