Microsoft launches new Windows 7 peripherals

With Windows 7 just a month-and-a-half away from launch, Microsoft has released a new range of peripherals compatible with the upcoming operating system. These include the 720p-capable LifeCam Cinema, the Bluetooth Mobile Keyboard 6000 and Wireless Comfort Desktop 5000. The latter is particularly interesting as it includes features that work specifically with Windows 7.

The LifeCam Cinema is capable of shooting HD-ready clips and is designed to be used as a standalone or clipped to an LCD display. You can read more about this Webcam in our previous article here. The Wireless Comfort Desktop 5000 comes with an ergonomic keyboard and BlueTrack mouse. Microsoft claims the BlueTrack sensor is significantly more accurate than standard laser and even works on glossy surfaces. This may also be the first keyboard to sport the new Taskbar Favorites. Instead of keys that are locked to a certain application, the row of buttons on the Desktop 5000 correspond to the applications on the Windows 7 taskbar. This allows the user to dynamically remap the buttons by simple rearranging the programs on the taskbar. Other Windows 7 integration features include support for Device Stage (for easy access to product information and drivers) and a Windows Flip button that activates a thumbnail preview of all open applications.

The Bluetooth Mobile Keyboard 6000 is not just another wireless keyboard. Like the SideWinder X6 gaming keyboard, this model comes with a removable numeric keyboard. But unlike the SideWinder X6, the detached number pad can be used on its own with any Bluetooth-enabled PC. With its sleek from factor which is barely thicker than the diameter of an AA-sized battery, Microsoft claims this keyboard is portable enough for laptop and Netbook users to carry around.

New products

Model name	In a nutshell
Wireless Comfort Desktop 5000 (Click for larger image)	Wow factor: One of the first peripherals to sport the Windows 7-specific Taskbar Favorites, this bundle also comes with a BlueTrack mouse for greater accuracy. Notable features: Ergonomic curved keyboard BlueTrack mouse Taskbar Favorites for Windows 7 buttons 2.4GHz wireless connectivity Media Center controls Expected: September 2009 Price: S$129 (US$94.98)
LifeCam Cinema (Click for larger image)	Wow factor: With a 2-megapixel lens and 720p video recording, this LifeCam is great for impromptu clips and videoconferencing. Notable features: 2-megapixel camera sensor 720p video recording Autofocus function Integrated microphone Windows Live Call button Expected: September 2009 Price: S$129 (US$94.98)
Bluetooth Mobile Keyboard 6000 (Click for larger image)	Wow factor: The slim and sleek chassis, coupled with a removable number pad and Bluetooth connectivity, makes this a good option for carrying around with your laptop or Netbook. Notable features: Ergonomic curved keyboard Detachable wireless numeric pad Bluetooth connectivity Sleek design Battery status with on/off switch Expected: October 2009 Price: S$149 (US$109.70)