Apple's multibutton mouse loses its tail

Apple Computer has released a Bluetooth-powered wireless version of Mighty Mouse, the company's only multibutton mouse.

Last year's release of the original Mighty Mouse broke Apple's tradition of manufacturing only single-button mice, but until now, the device existed only in USB cord form--an inconvenience for on-the-road Macintosh users or clutterphobes.

The wireless version of Mighty Mouse is compatible with any Mac running version 10.4.6 of the OS X Tiger operating system that has Bluetooth 2.0 wireless connectivity.

Powered by two AA batteries, the tailless Mighty Mouse is just as tricked out as its predecessor.

Instead of the split-button design found on most multibutton mice, it features a shell that covers two touch sensors for right- and left-button clicking.

A scroll ball allows for left-right, up-down and diagonal scrolling. And two additional sensor buttons on the side can be squeezed to reveal OS X's array of Dashboard widgets or other applications a user may choose.

As with the original wired version, software accompanying the new Mighty Mouse lets the consumer program the device in various ways. It's possible to enable single-button use--potentially of interest to Apple purists who want the scroll ball but still insist on the Mac mantra of single-button clicking--and the functions of the left and right buttons can be switched (lefties, take note).

A wireless Mighty Mouse costs $69, a full $20 more than its tailed brother. No discounts are available for individuals through the Apple Education store.