Microsoft has long been praised for its focus on accessible design. In product design, this group of people is often ignored. The company has been offering accessibility-focused Xbox peripherals for some time, launching its Adaptive line of computing peripherals around this time last year.
The product line includes AdaptiveHub, D-Pad buttons, mice, mouse tails and thumb support, all designed to bring Windows computing services to users with disabilities. The range has been embraced for its level of customization, which is a key part of making these products available to as many people as possible.
At this week's virtual Windows Conference, the "Adaptive" product line was updated and several new products were added. These products can be mixed and matched with standard peripherals and other products to best suit individual needs. Microsoft also offers 3D printing add-ons for further customization.
This round Microsoft brings the Adaptive Mouse, which features thumb support and a custom tail printed by Shapeways 3D. Outside of this larger shell, the mouse is a very compact square with just two buttons and a scroll wheel.
The AdaptiveHub is actually an accessory for other Adaptive accessories, wirelessly connecting up to three devices and four Adaptive buttons. In addition to the existing Adaptive D-Pad buttons, there are new dual buttons. The most interesting thing in the series, though, is undoubtedly the Adaptive joystick button, which closely resembles the old-school joysticks found on classic Atari consoles.
Among Microsoft's new accessibility accessories, the Surface Pro keyboard has a brighter backlight and clearer text, making it suitable for users with visual impairments. Yes, there is a Copilot key on the keyboard.