Microsoft Rolls Out New Wheel Mouse
REDMOND, Wash., May 28, 1998 — Microsoft Corp. today announced that Microsoft® Wheel Mouse, a new product in Microsoft’s pointing-device line, is scheduled to be available in June at an estimated retail price of $34.95. Equipped for universal scrolling in Windows® 95, Windows 98 and Windows NT® 4.0 operating systems-based applications, Wheel Mouse is a reliable, durable, wheel-enabled mouse that carries a two-year warranty (offer good in the United States and Canada only).
“Wheel Mouse answers consumers’ demands for a high-quality and highly functional mouse at an affordable price,”
said Tim McDonough, product manager for the line of pointing devices at Microsoft.
“Backed by Microsoft’s reputation for quality products, Wheel Mouse offers advanced features and value in an entry-level mouse. It’s ideal for budget-conscious PC users who are seeking a more productive, enjoyable and intuitive mousing experience.”
Feature Set and Consumer Benefits at a Glance
Microsoft Wheel Mouse has straight sides and a compact profile that fits large through small hands as well as left- or right-handed users. Its versatility makes it ideal for shared PCs.
Located between the two familiar mouse buttons, the wheel allows users to perform navigational tasks such as scrolling or zooming within Windows 95-, Windows 98- and Windows NT 4.0-based applications. For example, by employing the Wheel Mouse AutoScroll mode, users running Microsoft Internet Explorer 3.0 and 4.0 software can read World Wide Web pages hands-free. Working in Microsoft Excel for Office 97, users can zoom in and out of a spreadsheet by simply pressing the CTRL key and rolling the Wheel Mouse wheel.
Microsoft Wheel Mouse is also easy to install and set up. Like all Microsoft Mouse products, it includes IntelliPoint software, which allows users to customize mouse functions for greater ease of use.
Retail Availability, Pricing and System Requirements
Microsoft Wheel Mouse is scheduled to be widely available in June 1998, through authorized distributors and retailers, at an estimated retail price of $34.95. To take advantage of its wheel button, Wheel Mouse users must have Windows 95, Windows 98 or Windows NT 4.0.
Microsoft’s Mouse Family
Wheel Mouse is a new addition to Microsoft’s complete family of Mouse products. Characterized by their comfort, durability and style, the Microsoft family of pointing devices offers something for everyone. Microsoft employs the latest ergonomic design principles and conducts extensive user testing to create intuitive, easy-to-use pointing devices. Microsoft Mouse products and IntelliPoint driver software are designed to enhance the Windows experience and make PCs easier to use.
Founded in 1975, Microsoft (Nasdaq
“MSFT”
) is the worldwide leader in software for personal computers. The company offers a wide range of products and services for business and personal use, each designed with the mission of making it easier and more enjoyable for people to take advantage of the full power of personal computing every day.
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