Microsoft isn’t a famous name when it comes to hardware, but that doesn’t mean they don’t come up with anything decent. Their range of keyboards, mice and webcams are pretty good in terms of performance. Today, we’ll look at a couple of webcam releases from the software giant – the LifeCam Show and LifeCam VS-5500. Both peripherals will feature new designs that will sit down well with most people, and is versatile enough to function on both desktop and notebook platforms.
The LifeCam Show is extremely sleek, and is touted to be one of the slimmest webcams available in the market now while the LifeCam VX-5500 wears a more sassy approach, featuring switchable faceplates that come in a trio of colors and an innovative, collapsible design for easy portability. Both models will deliver high-end audio and video performance without missing a beat, and they support the Video Messages service that makes it easy to send and receive video messages to your contacts.

The LifeCam Show and LifeCam VX-5500 will be available later this October for $99.95 and $59.95,respectively.

New Webcams from Microsoft: [via]

A gaming mouse that does not come with wires? Well well, this is definitely going against the grain, but Microsoft doesn’t care as they forge ahead with the SideWinder X8. This wireless gaming mouse relies on a 2.4GHz connection to keep it moving, and it is capable of hitting a ridiculously high 4,000 dpi to match the Razer Lachesis. I am personally using a Lachesis, and I don’t venture anywhere near that amount since it is way too sensitive for me in the midst of a firefight. The SideWinder X8 relies on the recently unveiled BlueTrack laser technology that makes mousing possible on virtually any surface. Microsoft has also touted a 30 hour battery life for active gamers, but I would make sure the battery is fully charged if I’m going to enter any gaming competition with this. Good to know the SideWinder X8 comes with a play-and-charge cable for those emergencies. You can pick up the Microsoft SideWinder X8 for $100 next February.

SideWinder X8 – gaming mouse from Microsoft: [via]

Microsoft has taken the opportunity to announce the SideWinder X6 keyboard at the Games Convention in Leipzig, Germany, adding yet another member to the venerable SideWinder line of gaming peripherals from the software giant. It seems as though Microsoft Hardware laid low for quite some time, and the SideWinder name has not exactly lighted up the gaming world for some time already, so hopefully the X6’s debut will change all that. This is touted to be the most versatile gaming keyboard on the market thanks to the pioneering switchable key pad which can be attached to either the left or right side of the keyboard, catering for both left- and right-handers.

The switchable keypad itself is useful for ordinary, everyday tasks, depending on which hand the user is more prone to using. When used for gaming, however, it’s value cannot be undermined. The switchable keypad enables gamers to record up to 90 macros PER game, thanks to a set of dedicated macro keys that accompanies the fully programmable keypad. Instant mode switching allows gamers to move between an Excel spreadsheet and their favorite game in a snap, and the modes are differentiated through the LEDs displayed. The inclusion of automatic profile switching makes it possible to detect the current application, applying the custom profile in an instant.
The SideWinder X6 Keyboard will hit retail shelves this September for $79.95. Image courtesy of Engadget.

SideWinter X6 – gaming keyboard from Microsoft: [via]

Some sources from MTV Networks indicate that Microsoft is working on a Wiimote Controller specially designed for X-Box 360. Also able to receive signals from a LED sensor bar (like the Wii), but one-ups the Wiimote due to its microphone on board for Xbox Live chat.

Not many aspects are known yet except its colors and that it will use the standard rechargeable battery. Lauch date might be somewhere at the end of 2008.

Wiimote-Style Controller for X-Box 360: [Via]