New Microsoft mice arc, go blue
Microsoft unveiled a veritable mischief of mice today for your laptop and desktop. One features a sharp new design, another showcases a new, proprietary sensor technology.
First on deck is the Arc Mouse. There's nothing too special here other than its curved, collapsible design. We honestly don't understand the appeal of so-called laptop mice, so that you can make the Arc Mouse more compact doesn't seem like much of a plus. Perhaps you disagree. We have a feeling design nerds will jump on this one, to replace those dated Phillipe Starck mice. Available in red and black, for $60 this month.
Microsoft's new, collapsible Arc Mouse.
(Credit: Microsoft)We find the Explorer Mouse ($100) and Explorer Mini Mouse ($80) more interesting. Each features Microsoft's own BlueTrack technology, a brand new sensor designed to work on more surfaces than typical optical or laser mice. We were able to play with the Explorer Mouse at a demo earlier this summer and indeed, the sample hardware was more accurate on the shiny test surfaces Microsoft provided. Assuming the for-sale products live up to the demo, we can see a real benefit for anyone who keeps a PC in the kitchen where reflective countertops might legitimately impede accuracy.
The Explorer Mini, with new BlueTrack sensor.
(Credit: Microsoft)What's also interesting about BlueTrack is that it's Microsoft-developed. Unlike the standard laser sensor, a product of Agilent Technologies and licensed out to every mouse vendor, BlueTrack may remain a Microsoft exclusive. Of course, those licensing fees probably look pretty tempting, too. The Explorer and Explorer Mini launch in November.
Rich Brown reviews desktops and various other components and peripherals for CNET. E-mail Rich. 

Really horrible puns aside, the new BlueTrack technology looks pretty interesting, but I doubt it'll be able to pull me away from my MX Revolution.