This is interesting. Microsoft released a beta version of a new management interface for its keyboards and mice. Dubbed the Microsoft Device Center, this software runs only on the Windows 8 Consumer Preview and provides a hint, perhaps, at the future of device management on Windows.
Microsoft Device Center is a desktop application, not a Metro-style app.
According to the Device Center web site, this utility provides an easy-to-use, Windows 8-style user interface. Here's some information from Microsoft:
Device Center helps you personalize and customize how you work on your PC
- Tailor your mouse and keyboard to meet your unique needs and work style.
- Modify your mouse and keyboard settings to make it easier to use the unique features of most PC apps.
Effortlessly transition to Device Center from existing device management apps
- Launch the app from the Windows 8 Start screen.
- View and change basic and application-specific settings for all connected devices in one place.
- Explore features with pop-up descriptive and “how-to” InfoTips.
- Includes access to an online How-To/Troubleshooting library.
- Includes access to an online Healthy Computing Guide for tips on how to work more comfortably on your computer.
Here are a few shots of the software:
Fun fact: Microsoft calls this kind of UI a "Metro inspired" application to differentiate it from a "pure Metro" app.
Download the Microsoft Device Center Beta for Windows 8 Consumer Preview.
