MS unveils new mouse

Microsoft has unveiled its first wired laser mouse - specially designed to enhance your PC gaming no end - in a press release that also appears confirm rumours suggesting the Xbox 360 will launch in November.

The Laser Mouse 6000 has a thin, flexible cord for "the closest feeling to wireless while still having a wire", and has an ergonomic design to ensure maximum comfort. It's also got a bundle of new software features such as the Precision Booster, which lets you choose between ultrafast speed and precision control when targeting.

Plus there's a Gaming Toggle to switch weapons with, and you can program in your favourite action sequences to execute them at the touch of a button.

"We heard from gamers that they wanted a mouse designed specifically for their PC gaming needs, equipped with features and functionality that will optimise their gameplay," said Microsoft bigwig Tom Gibbons.

"We are now excited to say that we have answered that request with a perfect PC gaming solution: Laser Mouse 6000."

But perhaps the most interesting part of the press release is the bit at the bottom which reads: "The new Laser Mouse 6000 will be widely available by October 2005, and the Xbox 360 Controller for Windows will be widely available in November 2005."

It's long been rumoured that the Xbox 360 will launch in November, of course, but could this be the first hint of an official confirmation? After all, there's no point releasing a controller if there's nothing to stick it in...

The Laser Mouse 6000 is launching in the US priced $54.95.