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Microsoft Keyboard Works With Windows, iOS, and Android

 & Brian Westover Principal Writer, Hardware

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Microsoft has a few new peripherals on its hands, and while not everything is a surprise, there is one unexpected move: a keyboard that embraces Android and iOS devices as well as Windows.

Along with an OS-agnostic keyboard, Microsoft is also announcing a new version of the Arc Touch Bluetooth Mouse, three new limited-edition models of the Wireless Mobile Mouse 3500, and the new Xbox One controller for PCs.

Universal Mobile Keyboard
Microsoft's newest mobile keyboard is built for more than just Windows devices, with a Bluetooth connection and multiple device selector that lets you use the same keyboard for your Windows PC, your Android phone, and your Apple iPad or any other combination of Windows, Android and iOS devices (Windows 8 and Windows RT, Android 4 and higher, Apple iOS v6 and higher). This full QWERTY keyboard also offers function buttons for search and media controls, though support for these functions may vary from one device to the next.

The new compact keyboard is small enough to slip into a purse or bag, but has a rubber-coated lid that doubles as a stand for your phone or tablet. The lid is used to turn the device on and off—open to power on, and close to power off—but can also be disconnected from the keyboard for greater freedom of movement. The lid uses a magnetic attachment that is easily pulled off. The keyboard is powered by a rechargeable battery that is easily charged with an included micro USB cable.

The Microsoft Universal Mobile Keyboard will be available in the U.S. and Canada starting this October, with a price of $79.95. The keyboard will be available in either black or white.

Arc Touch Bluetooth Mouse
A second Bluetooth product has been Microsoft Arc Touch Bluetooth Mouse
announced, with a new standalone version of the Arc Touch Bluetooth Mouse. Originally available as a wireless mouse (using a USB dongle) and then as a Bluetooth mouse with Surface branding, the new version of the Arc Touch Mouse sticks with the Bluetooth 4.0 connection, and offers the same design and functionality. The color scheme is now a slate gray color, and features the same snap-flat portable design and touch scrolling with haptic feedback seen on previous versions. The mouse is powered with two AAA batteries.

The Arc Touch Bluetooth Mouse will be available starting Sept. 18 for $69.95, and will be sold in stores and online.

Wireless Mobile Mouse 3500 Limited Edition
The Microsoft Wireless Mobile Mouse 3500 is back Microsoft Wireless Mobile Mouse 3500 Limited Edition
again in a limited-edition series featuring brightly colored artwork across the top. The three new designs feature patterns like green paisley and colored stripes, and matches several available M-Edge tablet sleeves. The artwork is more than just pretty colors, with a raised 3D texture on each mouse that matches the unique design. Each mouse features wireless connectivity with a USB transceiver, and uses BlueTrack optical sensors.

The new Wireless Mobile Mouse 3500 Limited Edition models will be available this month for $29.95.

Xbox One Controller for Windows
Last but not least, Microsoft is bringing the Xbox One controller to Windows PCs for use with current PC gaming titles. The controller has the same buttons and layout as the Xbox One controller, and a 9-foot USB to microUSB cable for connection to your PC. The controller is also compatible with the Xbox One console, with wireless connectivity for use with any Xbox One.

The Xbox One Controller for Windows is coming to stores and online retailers this November, selling for $59.95.

About Our Expert

Brian Westover

Brian Westover

Principal Writer, Hardware

My Experience

From the laptops on your desk to satellites in space and AI that seems to be everywhere, I cover many topics at PCMag. I've covered PCs and technology products for over 15 years at PCMag and other publications, among them Tom's Guide, Laptop Mag, and TWICE. As a hardware reviewer, I've handled dozens of MacBooks, 2-in-1 laptops, Chromebooks, and the latest AI PCs. As the resident Starlink expert, I've done years of hands-on testing with the satellite service. I also explore the most valuable ways to use the latest AI tools and features in our Try AI column.

The Technology I Use

Between the Starlink dish on my roof and the laptop or desktop I'm using right now, I've always got a new tech product in front of me. I have five or six laptops in rotation at any moment, along with a couple of mini PCs, two smart TVs, and a couple of Chromebooks for good measure.

Everything is connected via Starlink, using the latest Dish V4 and Gen 3 Router, letting me live my tech-centric life in rural Idaho.

When I'm not testing and reviewing products, I'm probably using one of a dozen AI tools for everything from work and productivity to entertainment and saving some money.

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