Logitech unveils full-size wireless Mac keyboard

 

Gallery

Posted on 12 Nov 2008 at 12:38

Logitech has unveiled a Mac version of its wireless diNovo keyboard, providing an expanded alternative to Apple’s own, compact wireless offering. It has a numeric keypad and a full set of f-keys, which Apple only provides on its wired model.

Those f-keys provide one-touch access to Mail, Safari, iTunes, Exposé, Cover Flow, Dashboard, QuickLook and Spaces and there are separate Play, Pause, Mute and Volume buttons.

Logitech is keen to emphasise the keyboard’s design, The high-gloss, semi-translucent Plexiglas frame is just 22.10 mm from its base to the top of the keys while Apple’s favourite material, aluminium, is used for the palm rest.

The designers have also paid attention to the typing action with the implementation of Logitech’s PerfectStroke key system that works to to create longer key travel than you get with a typical notebook-style keyboard - 3.2 mm compared to 2.2 mm. Logitech says that this means that the distance your fingers have to travel to activate a key is optimised for comfort, while micro-scissors within the keys distribute force evenly across key surfaces, so even if you strike the edge of a key, the key stroke still feels the same.

While the keyboard is wireless, it won’t save you a USB port. Rather than relying on Bluetooth, as Apple does, the diNovo uses the same 2.4GHx spectrum as Wi-Fi, which requires that you fit a USB dongle to the Mac. Logitech says that its technology reduces interference, eliminating delays and dropouts, and by optimising the power management system it yields a three-year battery life.

If USB ports are too valuable, Logitech recently released a Mac version of the Bluetooth diNovo Edge keyboard, a more compact offering that includes a rechargeable battery (and charging dock) and touch-sensitive media controls.

“With the recently released diNovo Edge, Mac Edition, and now this diNovo Keyboard, Mac Edition, Logitech is giving people more options when it comes to choosing a keyboard that perfectly complements the Mac design,” said Denis Pavillard, vice president of product marketing for Logitech’s keyboards and desktops. “While the diNovo Edge keyboard is rechargeable and includes a TouchDisc and touch-sensitive volume control, our newest diNovo keyboard has a full-size layout and nineteen shortcut keys that provide quick access to Safari, iTunes, Expose, iChat and much more.”

The Logitech diNovo Keyboard, Mac Edition is expected to be available later this month for £69.99 (SRP). Logitech has yet to list it on its website, but Mac-specific feature aside it is likely to look very much like the Windows version.

Author: Simon Aughton