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Microsoft Corp.'s hardware division is developing a slim wireless keyboard, dubbed Ultimate, that will make it easier for users to access Windows Live services and features in its Windows Vista OS. According to Microsoft sources, the Ultimate keyboard will be announced later this year as part of a desktop package and will also come equipped with a wireless laser mouse. Among the facilities provided by the keyword, pressing a Windows Live Call button will automatically log a user into Windows Live Messenger and open a list of contacts currently online in order to initiate a videoconference or chat session. A Gadgets button will provide similar access to Gadgets in Windows Vista. These are mini-applications that appear on the computer screen to display things such as news, sports and weather information. According to company sources, the keyboard will also include a round button at the bottom, below the space bar, that will initiate the Start menu of Vista or Windows XP. The facility will replace the Start menu buttons traditionally found next to Alt buttons on a keyboard. An additional touch in the Ultimate will be provided through a backlit keyboard. The illumination of the keyboard will be adjusted based on surrounding light and proximity of users, with the keys lighting up if the room is dark or if a user is close by, company sources said. A dock will be included with the desktop package to charge the keyboard and mouse simultaneously from a computer's USB (Universal Serial Bus) port. The keyboard and mouse will come with built-in batteries. The cordless keyboard and mouse will communicate wirelessly with a computer within a 30-foot range using Bluetooth technology. Microsoft is developing a stable of hardware products to promote the use of Windows Live services. Just last month it launched two videoconferencing webcams, LifeCam VX-6000 and LifeCam VX-3000.
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