Microsoft's New Mouse: Smooth Clicks, Old Batteries?

Microsoft has launched a new $80 Surface Mouse, incorporating innovative haptic feedback technology. This ambidextrous device features capacitive touch and pressure sensors, with built-in motors providing force feedback for clicks, aiming to reduce moving parts and enhance durability.

The Surface Mouse's motor, positioned at the top, can transmit haptic feedback through the palm, enhancing immersion in supported applications like PowerPoint and Affinity. Users can adjust the haptic intensity, though options for changing these settings within Windows itself were not confirmed at the time of its announcement.

This new mouse is powered by two AAA batteries, a choice that contrasts with the rechargeable batteries common in similarly priced mice. This feature, along with the trackpad haptics found on updated Surface Laptops and Surface Pros, aligns with Microsoft's focus on modern productivity peripherals.

New models, including the Surface Laptop 13-inch and Surface Pro 12-inch, were also mentioned, featuring similar trackpad haptics. Microsoft also previewed Ink Canvas, a new app for note-taking and ideation that integrates AI for image modification. All new Surface devices and the Surface Mouse were slated for release on October 13.