Microsoft Adds Keyboard, Mouse Bundle For Windows Vista

Microsoft next month plans to release to retailers a mouse and keyboard bundle that provides one-touch access to Windows Vista and Windows Live features.

The Wireless Laser Desktop 4000 includes a Comfort Curve keyboard that reduces physical stress from typing and a laser mouse that's more responsive than the older optical mouse, the company said.

The keyboard provides a key for launching the Windows Start menu, which in Vista features Live search for the PC or the Web. In addition, there's one-touch access to Windows Gadgets, mini-applications that display information such as weather, news, and stock quotes, and to start an instant messaging session or video call.

The laser mouse includes one-click access to an instant viewer tool that enables users to view all open windows at once and to easily switch between applications. A magnifier tool is available to enlarge sections of the screen for viewing and editing images, documents, and Web sites. The mouse also provides four-way scrolling for moving up, down, left, and right on long Web pages and spreadsheets.

The Microsoft Wireless Laser Desktop 4000 is scheduled to be available at retailers in April. Pricing is estimated at $79.95.Microsoft offers a variety of keyboard and mouse bundles that are meant to make it easier and faster to navigate Windows.