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Microsoft unveils MFi Bluetooth keyboard built for iOS, Android & Windows devices

[youtube=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sdPT-TzgU84]

Microsoft today announced a new Bluetooth keyboard accessory that doesn’t just work with non-Windows devices like some of its past keyboards, it also includes a function for easily switching between Windows, Android, and iOS as well as dedicated keys for the other platforms.

Other nice touches for iOS users: Microsoft even includes a CMD key normally reserved for Mac/iOS keyboards in its proper location in addition to a dedicated home button for both Android and iOS. Not only that, but the keyboard is a Made-for-iPhone/iPad/iPod touch product, which means it also has Apple’s seal of approval.

The Universal Mobile Keyboard has an OS switch that lets you change from one operating system to another while maintaining a fully functional keyboard… It’s easy and quick to set up, especially on the go. Simply open the protective cover and the keyboard automatically turns on, and connects using Bluetooth. Shut the cover, and it instantly turns off. The cover has an integrated stand that can easily be detached, so you can position your tablet in the most comfortable position.

Microsoft says the keyboard will get 6 months of normal usage on a single overnight charge, while a 10 minute charge will offer 8 hours of usage. As for its size, the keyboard measures .47 inches thick and weighs 12.875 ounces.

The Microsoft Universal Keyboard is expected to arrive in October at the Microsoft Store and other retailers for $80.

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Comments

  1. archie0527 - 10 years ago

    Pretty cool keyboard. I can see how it would be useful. Surprising coming from Microsoft too. Personally I wouldn’t need it just because I have an iphone, so I also have an iPad. No need for switching between operating systems.

  2. robles - 10 years ago

    Microsoft makes excellent keyboards and mice. I’m not surprised that the best keyboard comes from them.

  3. Eli Matar - 10 years ago

    Do people still type on physical keyboard?

  4. see how they put “iPad & iPhone” first before Android & Windows below “Switch Quickly Between Devices” at the 0:17 second mark. Even the people at Windows know what’s up. They could have probably saved a few bucks still making the keyboard but maybe getting rid of the switch that goes all the way to the Windows end.

  5. 1sugomac - 10 years ago

    Wow! Really impressed. Great little design from Microsoft.

  6. Steven J. Kuehn II - 10 years ago

    Did that feel like a mcdonalds or coke commercial, where they have someone from every race, to anyone else?

  7. David Fabian - 10 years ago

    This is tempting because the stand in the MSFT keyboard looks like it would accommodate an iPad with a case. I currently have a Logitech slim keyboard for iPad Mini, but the stand doesn’t play nice with the case that I use.

  8. coolfactor - 10 years ago

    Well, this is a change from Microsoft. Interesting. They are serious about competing on all fronts now.

  9. charilaosmulder - 10 years ago

    For Windows too?? xD

    Seriously though MS knows how to make some hw, if I ever buy an iPad I would consider buying one of these.

  10. nsxrebel - 10 years ago

    Cool Keyboard, especially for those with multiple devices with different OS’

  11. BOA (@Bankofandromeda) - 10 years ago

    so simple and useful~ I like it~

  12. In a word : Perfection! Microsoft does it “RIGHT Yet Again.”

  13. yuwei (@szfloodlighting) - 8 years ago

    Awesome, your professional and skilled review contribute to plenty of information about microsoft unveils mfi bluetooth keyboard,and now mobile keyboard is increasingly popular with us tablet and PC,i am one of those accustomed to using keyboard to protect my tablet and show off my style,and i like shopping and choose from http://www.onu-mall.com/catalog/bluetooth-keyboards/for-microsoft/ with great collections of fashionable but affordable bluetooth keyboard and case.

Author

Avatar for Jordan Kahn Jordan Kahn

Jordan writes about all things Apple as Senior Editor of 9to5Mac, & contributes to 9to5Google, 9to5Toys, & Electrek.co. He also co-authors 9to5Mac’s Logic Pros series.