report over at ZDNet cites a Microsoft spokesperson who reveals that they have decided to discontinue the Surface Wireless Keyboard Adapter — it allowed connectivity of Touch and Type Covers to monitors from up to 30 feet away. Below is what the spokesperson said:
“Due to a number of factors, we are no longer manufacturing the Surface Wireless Keyboard Adapter. We are always evaluating our options and remain committed to helping people be productive with Surface.”Evaluating our options, here, in plain English means that the device was in all probability less successful than what Redmond had expected, and complete retirement was the only option. Still listed on Microsoft’s online store, the Surface Wireless Keyboard Adapter retailed for $59.99 and offered support for all Surface tablets. The accessory also came with a USB cable to recharge the device, though it made use of Bluetooth connectivity. If you were planning to buy it, you just might be able to find the last remaining stock if you look hard.]]>
How were the reviews on this product? I’m assuming it didn’t work properly, not to mention I don’t think there’s much of a practical use for this in this day and age. If people want a keyboard, they probably want it to attach to the tablet to give it a laptop feel.
I kind of agree. With my tablets, I want them because they’re smaller to take with me and don’t require a keyboard. The keyboard attaching to make it a laptop is nice, but I don’t see much appeal to a wireless keyboard.
I’ll take it a step further. I don’t really see the need for a keyboard at all. I get it for those who travel a lot, but for me personally, I just want my tablet for little stretches of time. I have a computer at home and work that doesn’t leave me needing a tablet with a keyboard all that often.
I may buy this now just to have it as a collector’s edition! 🙂 I’m just joking, but 59.99 seems like an okay price if it works well. I need to read some reviews and recommendations first.