Microsoft Explorer Mouse Uses Blue-Beam Laser

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It has been rumored for a while that Microsoft's blue-beam technology was on the way, Microsoft's Website has posted two new mice that use the new technology: the Microsoft Explorer Mouse and Explorer Mouse Mini.

Both versions of the Explorer Mouse claim to work on more surfaces than laser mice, claiming that they can be used on granite countertops, carpets, wood tables or an unfinished park bench. The only surfaces that Microsoft points out blue-laser technology won't function on are clear glass or mirrored surfaces. Blue-laser technology allows the mice to achieve more accurate tracking by using "wide-angle specular optics architecture."

While a mouse may seem like one of the more basic tools used in every day computer usage, it's interesting to note how it has evolved. The average person probably first encountered a mouse that had a ball in the bottom, the kind that required users to pull the ball out, clean it and then blow in its compartment from time to time when the cursor began to react sluggishly. The next evolution came with a trackball on top and an ergonomic design. Some people loved it, others hated it. Laser mice, likely what you're using right now, took the ball out of the equation, ditched the mouse pad and could be used on more surfaces.

Now Microsoft is hoping to change the game again with wide-angle specular optics architecture and blue-beams. In addition to working on nearly any surface, the Microsoft Explorer Mouse is a 2.4 GHz device with 30 feet of reliable wireless. The mouse is rechargeable, comes with a base and only needs to be refueled once every three months. In addition to ergonomic design, consumers can also look forward to blue lighting effects, for, what Microsoft calls, "sophisticated design."

The Microsoft Explorer and Explorer Mini will be available through Microsoft and Best Buy and sell for $99 and $79.