Microsoft rolls out new consumer products

SEATTLE: Microsoft Corp. launched a wide collection of new-look keyboards and mouse as the world's largest software maker gears up to offer a barrage of consumer-oriented products this fall.

The new keyboards and mouse, which will be available to consumers by the end of September, feature new colors such as blue, gray and black, and are designed for specific tasks, such as browsing the Web or working with Office, Microsoft's set of word processing and spreadsheet productivity software.

Top-end models will include a wireless keyboard and optical mouse. Models to be released later this year will feature Bluetooth technology, a new wireless technology that allows devices to work with each other without cables. Microsoft, hoping to extend its reach beyond the desktop, is marketing new consumer products such as a mobile phone with its software, online services for its Xbox video game console and other consumer-friendly products this fall.

© Reuters