Microsoft’s next Arc Mouse may fold even further
The next foldable mouse from Microsoft may be able to flip all the way around.
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What you need to know
Microsoft could potentially be working on a new foldable mouse. Arecently published patentshows a mouse that can fold to be easier to carry around (viaWindowsUnited). This may sound familiar, as Microsoft also makes an Arc Mouse that folds. Unlike that mouse, the patent describes an input device that can fold all the way over onto itself.
The currently available Arc Mouse can either lay flat or pop up into an arched configuration. In contrast, the device described in the patent could fold around in a way similar to theSamsung Galaxy Z Flip. This wouldn’t reduce the mass of the mouse, of course, but it would allow a device to fit into different pockets and bags.
The abstract of the patent reads:
A foldable computer mouse is provided that includes a deformable body configurable to be formed into a first expanded configuration usable for receiving inputs for controlling a computing device and a second folded configuration in which a first portion of the deformable body is folded over a second portion of the deformable body. The mouse also includes an input sensor disposed on the deformable body and configured to detect tactile input, a motion tracking component disposed on the deformable body and configured to detect movement of the computer mouse, and a communications component configured to wirelessly communicate tactile input and motion tracking data to the computing device.
As is the case with all patent filings, Microsoft may never make a device that utilizes this design. The patent was filed on March 30, 2021 and published on November 4, 2021.
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Sean Endicott is a tech journalist at Windows Central, specializing in Windows, Microsoft software, AI, and PCs. He’s covered major launches, from Windows 10 and 11 to the rise of AI tools like ChatGPT. Sean’s journey began with the Lumia 740, leading to strong ties with app developers. Outside writing, he coaches American football, utilizing Microsoft services to manage his team. He studied broadcast journalism at Nottingham Trent University and is active on X @SeanEndicott_ and Threads @sean_endicott_.
