Magic Mouse a double digit hit for Apple
NPD Group sales data for the new device, which was unveiled along with new iMacs and Mac minis in October, shows Apple to have captured just over 10% of the market in November, representing a first for Apple. The sales data was compiled from standalone Magic Mouse sales only. Those sold with new Macs didn't figure into the equation.
"Sales in November were through the roof," Stephen Baker, analyst with the market research firm, told AppleInsider. "[The Magic Mouse] had the best month for a mouse product from Apple that we've ever seen."
Instead of mechanical buttons, scroll wheels or scroll balls, the entire top of the Magic Mouse is a Multi-Touch surface. It comes standard with the new iMac and will be available as a Mac accessory at US$69.
The mouse features a touch-sensitive enclosure that allows it to be a single or multi-button mouse with advanced gesture support. Using gestures, users can scroll through long documents, pan across large images or swipe to move forward or backward through a collection of web pages or photos. Magic Mouse works for left or right handed users and multi-button or gesture commands can be configured from within System Preferences.
The Magic Mouse laser tracking engine provides a smooth, consistent experience across more surfaces than a traditional optical tracking system, according to Apple. Magic Mouse uses Bluetooth wireless capabilities and its wireless connection works from up to 10 meters away. To extend battery performance, Magic Mouse includes an advanced power management system that works with Mac OS X to automatically switch to low power modes during periods of inactivity. The wireless Magic Mouse is powered by two AA batteries, which are included.
Magic Mouse comes standard with the new iMac and is available through the Apple Store, at Apple’s retail stores and Apple Authorized Resellers for a suggested retail price of $69 (US). Magic Mouse requires Mac OS X 10.5.8 or later.