Verbatim has unveiled four new keyboards and six mice to its PC/Mac Accessory line. The new keyboard line includes a Speaker keyboard, Wireless Multimedia and Wireless Slim keyboard/mouse combinations, and a USB Keyboard with Vista hot keys. Verbatim’s new line of mice includes wireless, laser and Bluetooth notebook models as well as wireless, rechargeable wireless and laser desktop models.

With its next-generation keyboards and mice, Verbatim makes advanced technologies and sleek-looking designs affordable for budget-conscious consumers. Ideal for people who want to optimize their computing experience, the new units also appeal to consumers who want to update the look of their laptop or desktop systems.

The CEA, which tracks sales from manufacturers to resellers, projects sales of 8.4 million keyboards in 2008 - an increase of 8 percent over 2007. Mice sales are expected to expand to 13 million - an increase of 6 percent over 2007.

Verbatim Keyboards

With solutions that meet the needs and lifestyles of both Windows and Mac systems, Verbatim’s new keyboard line includes a USB Speaker Keyboard which will be displayed at Macworld Booth #2617 in a few weeks.

Featuring integrated, dual stereo speakers that deliver crystal-clear sound, Verbatim’s Speaker Keyboard can be used as a personal music station without cluttering up the desktop with speakers and cords. In addition to including backlit keys that can be turned on to improve key visibility in low light, it also features multimedia keys, hot keys and software for both Windows and Mac users. The Mac version integrates with iTunes for controlling music playback. The Windows version integrates with Windows Media Player. Equipped with a built-in mini-microphone, the Verbatim Speaker Keyboard is fully compatible with Skype and other VOIP software.

The new keyboard line also includes a USB Keyboard with Vista hot keys for fast, direct access to the Internet and Vista functions like Gadget, 3D Flip and Media Center.

For cord-free mobility and precision, Verbatim offers a wireless multimedia keyboard/mouse combination and a space-saving wireless slim keyboard/mouse combination with a convenient volume wheel and hot keys.

Verbatim Mice

Verbatim’s new notebook and desktop mice range from models that are integrated with the latest wireless technology (2.4Ghz) to high-resolution (laser sensor) solutions and a Bluetooth-based notebook model. The wireless and Bluetooth models include Mac and Windows software for increased functionality and added value. All of the sleek-looking mice (except the Bluetooth mouse) feature silver as the base color and are colored to complement Mac systems. The Bluetooth mouse is a metallic ice blue color.

All of the new Verbatim mice also include laser sensor tracking for improved cursor control and more precise on-screen navigation; tilt wheel navigation for easy scrolling and a 3-setting speed control that lets users select the cursor speed that matches their activity. With the wireless mice models, users have the reliability and performance of a 2.4Ghz connection to ensure that there are no delayed cursor movements.

Consumers can enjoy all of these features plus the ability to customize their mouse and their computing experience with the following Verbatim mice:

Wireless Notebook Laser Mouse: The Slim USB receiver included with this model is designed to fit securely under the mouse for easy, on-the-go storage.

Notebook Laser Mouse: Featuring a textured comfort grip, this model can be used by people who are right- or left-handed. With its convenient retractable USB cable, this compact mouse can be easily carried in a backpack or computer bag.

Bluetooth Notebook Laser Mouse: Designed to work with an Apple MacBook or Bluetooth-enabled laptop, this model offers easy, quick set-up with Bluetooth-enabled computers.

Desktop Wireless Laser Mouse: This model offers a textured comfort grip for right- or left- hand use and provides one-click access to key functions with 3 programmable buttons.

Desktop Laser Mouse: Features 5 programmable buttons for setting up one-click access to the functions used most and a textured comfort grip for right- or left-hand use.

Desktop Rechargeable Wireless Laser Mouse: With a receiver that doubles as a charger, users can dock the mouse in the receiver to charge it, saving time, batteries and money. Ergonomically designed for comfort and usability, it’s a perfect fit for right-handers and offers 3 programmable buttons for one-click access to functions used most.

Availability, Pricing

Verbatim’s new keyboards and mice are available through leading retailers, Internet resellers and distributors for use with Windows XP, 2000 and Vista systems as well as Mac OS 10.4.X and higher systems. Street prices start at less than $20 for the USB Keyboard with Vista hot keys and about $20 for the Notebook Laser Mouse.

In addition to the new mice, Verbatim continues to offer its Wireless Laser Mouse, Wireless Optical Notebook Mouse, Laser Desktop Mouse, Desktop Optical Mouse and an Optical Mini mouse.