Microsoft comes with wireless keyboard for HTPCs, consoles and smart TV

Microsoft has announced a compact wireless keyboard with touchpad. The All-in-One Media Keyboard competes in price and functionality especially with Logitech’s K400 and K830 keyboards.

The All-in-One Media Keyboard from Microsoft features compact chiclet keys in a qwerty layout. Buttons are also provided for multimedia functions, such as volume control and stopping and pausing media files. There are also a number of keys that, in addition to being a function key, are specifically intended for the Windows 8 operating system. The integrated trackpad supports multi-touch gestures, and a left and right mouse button is included at the bottom of the trackpad.

Microsoft opts for a Unifying USB dongle at 2.4 GHz to allow the keyboard to function wirelessly with, for example, an htpc, console or television with smart TV. To prevent loss, the dongle can also be stored behind a cover next to the battery compartment, for example if the keyboard is not used for some time. There is also an on/off switch. The keyboard, which is compatible with almost all operating systems and has a transmission range of up to 10 meters, can last for ‘months’ on two penlite batteries, according to Microsoft.

With the All-in-One Media Keyboard, which will cost 40 euros and will be available from April 23, Microsoft is aiming for use in the living room. It has Logitech as its main competitor. In addition to the two-year-old K400, Logitech also recently launched the somewhat more expensive K830. This model has, among other things, backlighting.