Whatever OS tickles your device fancy, you simply can't ignore the fact that a new release of Microsoft's operating system is just around the corner. If you've just invested in a notebook, PC or All-in-One which is distinctly lacking in the touchscreen display department, however, Logitech has launched three new peripherals to help you get the most from Windows 8. The Wireless Rechargeable Touchpad T650, Touch Mouse T620 and Zone Touch Mouse T400 will all be available later this month.
"Our new mice and touchpad replicate the touch-screen experience that you’ve grown accustomed to on smartphones and tablets," said Logitech's Mike Culver. "With Windows 8 now offering up a similar touch experience, our products give you quick, easy and dynamic access to the core elements of the new interface."
Some notebook trackpads may be able to support Windows 8 gestures but even the biggest are not going to give your fingers much room to roam. The Wireless Rechargeable Touchpad T650 features an ultra-smooth upper glass surface that's fingerprint- and scratch-resistant, and an embedded sensor that's claimed to ensure precision tracking for fast and fluid navigation.
In addition to basic point, click and scroll from anywhere your fingers happen to be on the touchpad, the T650 is capable of supporting up to 13 Windows 8 gestures, such as edge gestures for app switching, app bar and charms bar activation, pinch-to-zoom and three-finger swipe to take you back to the Start Screen.
The supersized touchpad is priced at US$79.99, recharges via USB and has a claimed battery life of up to one month on a full charge (and can also be used while charging). It comes with Logitech's Unifying receiver that wirelessly connects up to six compatible devices via one USB port.
The Touch Mouse T620 has a full touch surface that enables users to take full advantage of Win 8 gesturing. There's a laser-grade optical sensor, up to six months of battery life from its two supplied AA-sized batteries (but it can also run on a single battery for a more lightweight user experience), and the mouse is also supplied with a Unifying receiver.
This peripheral carries a $69.99 price tag.
Instead of a full touch surface, the Zone Touch Mouse T400 has a glass touch zone where the scroll wheel might otherwise be, and rubberized sides for improved comfort and control. The touch zone area is used to access the more popular elements of the new operating system. Clicking anywhere on the front of the touch zone will take you directly to the Start Screen.
As with the other Win 8 devices detailed here, the T400 comes with a Unifying receiver but benefits from an 18-month battery life from its two included AA batteries. This model has a suggested retail of $49.99.
Product pages: Touchpad T650, Touch Mouse T620 and Touch Mouse T400
