The folks over at Microsoft’s Hardware division have launched nine new peripherals still long before those Microsoft Windows people have been able to get their one product out, Windows Vista. While it is probably much easier to redesign a mouse, keyboard and webcam in subtle ways, it is still slightly amusing to me.

Pictured above is the new Wireless Entertainment Desktop 8000, which claims to be the first wireless rechargeable backlit keyboard, and who are we to argue? The ‘board features ambient and proximity sensing, while keeping it slim at a mere 1-inch thick, and it should be available next February for $250. Next up is the do-it-all Wireless Presenter Mouse 8000, which stuffs in slide presenter, laser pointer, media remote and laser mouse functionality into its meaty girth.

I don’t see myself replacing my current keyboard and mouse anytime soon, but if I did, I don’t think Microsoft products would be my first choice. Though that keyboard does look rather nice.