October 20th, 2009
Apple releases new wireless "magic" multitouch mouse
Apple on Tuesday released its Magic Mouse, a new mouse that features gesture control. The $69 accessory uses BlueTooth wireless to connect to the host computer.
The new multitouch mouse supports a range of gestures for clicking, multiple buttons, 360-degree scrolling, screen zooming and page “swiping.” Apple said the mouse is designed for righties and lefties.
The Multi-Touch area covers the top surface of Magic Mouse, and the mouse itself is the button. Scroll in any direction with one finger, swipe through web pages and photos with two, and click and double-click anywhere. Inside Magic Mouse is a chip that tells it exactly what you want to do. Which means Magic Mouse won’t confuse a scroll with a swipe. It even knows when you’re just resting your hand on it.
According to Apple, the Magic Mouse uses a laser tracking engine under its surface. I couldn’t find the resolution specs yet for the device.
Magic Mouse uses powerful laser tracking that’s far more sensitive and responsive on more surfaces than traditional optical tracking. That means it tracks with precision on nearly every surface — whether it’s a table at your favorite cafe or the desk in your home office — without the need for a mousepad.
David Morgenstern has covered the Mac market and other technology segments for 20 years. See his full profile and disclosure of his industry affiliations.
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