Microsoft Universal Mobile Keyboard

Microsoft has created a keyboard designed for iOS, Android, and Windows tablets. It's the latest in a series of moves that underlines the company's focus on providing software, services, and even hardware for rival platforms to Windows. It includes a button to switch between iOS, Android, and Windows Bluetooth modes.


Supporting iOS and Android isn't unusual for Microsoft's keyboards, but the company has gone a step further this time. The Universal Mobile Keyboard includes an Android home key and a cmd key typically found on Apple keyboards. Although it also works with Windows tablets, Microsoft hasn't even stamped a Windows logo on the keyboard — a rare move for the company. That makes this tablet keyboard the only one in Microsoft's range of wired and wireless keyboards without the traditional Windows key.

A rechargeable battery integrated into the keyboard will last for six months of usage on a single charge according to Microsoft. Just 10 minutes of charging provides enough power for a full day's use, and a removable integrated stand also acts as a protective shell to prevent any damage to the keys when the keyboard is not in use. Microsoft is planning to release the Universal Mobile Keyboard in October for $79.95.