Surface keyboards and mice leak ahead of anticipated computer

Rumours have been abound for some time that Microsoft is set to reveal a Surface-branded computer and with an October event still expected to be announced, new leaks have confirmed that new Surface hardware is on its way, but it may not include a computer.

Windows Central has reported a new Surface-branded Bluetooth keyboard. The keyboard looks like an upated version of the Designer Bluetooth Desktop package: low profile, straight (non-ergonomic) design, with chiclet style keys (read: a Mac keyboard without a command key). Windows Central also claims that a second ergonomic design is in the pipeline.

Enlarge/ The Surface Keyboard in FCC filings.

Yesterday, Windows Central reported a new Surface-branded Bluetooth keyboard. The keyboard looks like an updated, redesigned version of the keyboard in the Designer Bluetooth Desktoppackage: low profile, straight (non-ergonomic) design, with chiclet style keys. Windows Central also claims that a second ergonomic design is in the pipeline.

Today, thanks to the FCC, we have evidence of a new Surface-branded mouse, too. While the keyboard looks like an updated design, the mouse looks identical, save for its color, to the existing Designer Mouse. Both keyboard and mouse are in the same gray as the magnesium alloy of the Surface Book, and both are Bluetooth 4 Low Energy devices. The mouse should last an impressive 12 months on its two AAA batteries.

We also have evidence, thanks to the FCC, of a new Surface-branded mouse as well. The mouse looks almost identical to the existing Designer Mouse, with a colour change-up to boot. Both keyboard and mouse are in the same gray as the magnesium alloy of the Surface Book, and both are Bluetooth 4 Low Energy devices. The mouse will apparently last 12 months on its two AAA batteries.

All these two peripherals seem to be missing now is a computer to go with. If the computer does indeed exist, Microsoft has done a good job of keeping details under lock and key. MSPowerUser uncovered some patent drawings in August showing that Microsoft is certainly thinking about all-in-one systems, though its approach looks quite different from the one taken by Apple. The patent filings show several different ideas. While some show a standard looking all-in-one with the computer in the base, others look more modular. 

The patent application presents a system with a screen and separate modules housing processors, memory, storage, networking, and all the other computer gubbins. The device’s modular nature would mean that things like more storage or new Wi-Fi support can be added just by plugging in or switching out the modules.

For the average consumer, this might be a bit too complicated and it would certainly be a surprise to see this modular device come to market ahead of a more conventional one.