No more Microsoft branded peripherals, now just Surface – Microsoft

Instead, Microsoft is now focusing on Surface-branded computer accessories, which include mice, keyboards, stylus, and more. This decision ends the legacy of Microsoft-branded computers, since the company launched its first mouse in 1983 when it came with Microsoft Word and Notepad.

Dan Laycock, Microsoft’s chief communications officer, said in a statement the edge. We will continue to offer a range of Surface-branded PC peripherals, including mice, keyboards, styluses, docking stations, adaptive peripherals and more. Existing Microsoft-branded peripherals such as mice, keyboards and cameras will continue to be sold Web in current markets at current retail prices while supplies last.”

Nikkei first reported earlier today That Microsoft will no longer make standalone Surface-branded keyboards, but that’s not the case. Microsoft’s statement shows that the company is focused on moving the Surface brand forward. Although Microsoft will still make Surface-branded keyboards and mice, they usually sell at high prices, and it’s unclear whether or not any low-cost Microsoft-branded accessories will crossover into the Surface line.

Microsoft doesn’t currently offer a Surface Webcam, with the only relevant accessory being the $799.99 Surface Smart Camera designed for conference rooms. Surface president Panos Panay has hinted at Surface-branded webcams in the past, but Microsoft has gone ahead with a newer webcam for $69.99 in 2021.

In addition, the news may reveal Microsoft’s intention to pull the oft-publicized ergonomic keyboards from the market. Microsoft offers the Surface-branded Ergonomic Keyboard, but at a retail price of $129, that’s more than double the regular Microsoft-branded Ergonomic Keyboard that costs $59.99.

News of the change in plans for Microsoft’s peripherals division comes months after the company announced changes to its hardware offering amid 10,000 job losses. The PC market is suffering right now, and Microsoft’s hardware revenue, which includes Surface, PC accessories, and HoloLens, fell 30% year-over-year in its most recent third-quarter results.