Microsoft Hardware Blog

If you still think of your mouse as a “peripheral” device, maybe it’s time to check out some of the new options on the market. We’ve come a long way from the off-white ovals that were once so ubiquitous. Over the years, designers have created more ergonomic mice, like the Comfort Optical Mouse 3000. We’ve cut the cord, offering reliable wireless mice like the Wireless Mobile Mouse 3500. We’ve also showcased talented artists from around the world in the Artist Edition series of the Wireless Mobile Mouse 3500. All told, mice are more beautiful and user-friendly than they’ve ever been.

The most exciting development, though, has been the addition of touch capabilities. The Touch Mouse (coming soon) and the Arc Touch Mouse (available now) are both sleek examples of how the introduction of touch has changed the way we use mice by blending the versatility of a touch pad with the comfort of a mouse. You can now scroll and pan, navigate, and manipulate content using touch gestures—without sacrificing ergonomic efficiency. The Arc Touch Mouse also includes thoughtful features that make even the most basic actions something special. For instance, rather than pressing a power button, you simply curve the mouse to turn it on and flatten it to turn it off and take it with you. It’s a smart, powerful mouse that’s meant to be as impressive on your desk as it is in your hand, and we’re proud to announce that it just won a 2011 International Design Excellence Gold Award.