Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella recently announced intentions for modifications to the company’s hardware lineup, worrying and disappointing supporters of Microsoft’s ergonomic keyboards. The revelation came as a shock to devoted users like Brittany Matter, a freelance writer from Olympia, Washington, whose cherished device had given her with relief from wrist ache and discomfort.
Since Microsoft’s entry into the keyboard market in 1994, its ergonomic products have attracted a devoted following. However, keyboards have not been a major source of income for Microsoft as it intends to emphasize expanding categories and concentrate on its cloud services. Microsoft is discontinuing several of its most well-known ergonomic devices while still making keyboards.
The Microsoft Natural Keyboard, which had split letter key design and ergonomic arrangement, was one of these well-liked products. Customers commended its comfort and distinctive design. Microsoft developed their ergonomic keyboards throughout time by taking into account user input and adding new functions. All incarnations, meanwhile, weren’t without problems. The Natural Keyboard Elite’s diamond-shaped arrow key layout has come under fire for how it affects spreadsheet and game navigation.
Regardless of these drawbacks, Microsoft’s ergonomic keyboards won over a devoted fanbase. Users with better wrist placement, like systems administrator Matt Steinhoff, experienced comfort and reduced their chance of developing repetitive stress injuries. They received recommendations and endorsements from prominent individuals in the IT sector as a result of their excellent experiences.
Microsoft’s decision to end production of its ergonomic keyboard series is a result of changing market conditions. Since Microsoft joined the keyboard industry, things have changed thanks to rising demand and more customizable possibilities. For amateurs and enthusiasts who post pictures of their creations on social media, keyboards have emerged as a central theme. Additionally, the typical customer is looking for more customized alternatives rather than just using the standard keyboard that comes with their PCs.
Although Microsoft’s decision to stop making its products may make commercial sense, it has saddened devoted fans. Alternative manufacturers like Logitech also provide ergonomic keyboards, but many fans will miss the comfort and familiarity of Microsoft’s designs.
A Microsoft spokeswoman underscored the company’s emphasis on its Windows PC accessory portfolio under the Surface brand in response to inquiries regarding the discontinuance. On Microsoft’s website, the 2016 model of the Surface Ergonomic Keyboard is still available, but momentarily out of stock. It still falls within their array of PC Accessories with the Surface brand, the representative said.
Although supplies are limited, consumers may still obtain earlier models of Microsoft’s ergonomic keyboards from other online vendors for the time being. However, because of this unpredictability, some users have begun to think of hoarding their favored keyboards.
Fans of Microsoft’s ergonomic keyboard series are left mourning the passing of an era as the company pushes on with its hardware plan. While they continue to look for alternatives, many will miss the dependable comfort that Microsoft’s ergonomic keyboards have long offered at a reasonable price.
