Microsoft's new line of adaptive PC accessories is made for people with disabilities
Microsoft is continuing its push to make tech more accessible with a new line of accessories.
On Tuesday, Microsoft announced a series of products to "empower people who may have difficulty using a traditional mouse and keyboard," the announcement reads.
The product launch, which was unveiled at the 2022 Microsoft Ability Summit, is the latest example of Microsoft's commitment to an underserved community: People with disabilities. "A traditional mouse and keyboard may pose obstacles for someone with limited mobility," said Microsoft director of accessibility Dave Dame in the blog post. "These adaptive accessories can perform a variety of functions, thereby alleviating a pain point for those who find it challenging to get the most out of their PC."
The lineup includes a simplified standalone adaptive mouse, a mouse with adaptive tail and thumb supports, and an adaptive hub with four different designs of wireless buttons for replacing or augmenting a traditional keyboard. There are also 3D-printed adaptive parts for the mouse and a range of 3D-printed parts for adding to the buttons.
Microsoft's work on the 2018 Xbox Adaptive Controller is credited in the blog post with helping the company to understand and better serve the needs of all of its customers. It also inspired the creation of the new and improved Inclusive Tech Lab on Microsoft's campus, which will be dedicated to ideating and designing new accessibility products.
The new adaptive accessories will be available sometime this fall.
Cecily is a tech reporter at Mashable who covers AI, Apple, and emerging tech trends. Before getting her master's degree at Columbia Journalism School, she spent several years working with startups and social impact businesses for Unreasonable Group and B Lab. Before that, she co-founded a startup consulting business for emerging entrepreneurial hubs in South America, Europe, and Asia. You can find her on X at @cecily_mauran.
