Apple's 2009 keyboard and mice

Apple's revamped Mighty Mouse and other peripheral changes were virtually confirmed today through a pair of new filings posted at the FCC. The entries for a Bluetooth mouse and keyboard both show unfamiliar model numbers (A1296 and A1314) and, in drawings that have since been modified, significant redesigns.

While the images don't provide full details of what will change, the keyboard image shows a design smaller still than the existing model. The mouse shows a more dramatic change and would have the mouse drop the existing ovoid shape in favor of a slightly more squared off design.

Apple's design was just earlier today rumored to be shedding its plastic white shell for an aluminum or aluminum-like body that may use touch gestures for scrolling instead of a clog-prone trackball. The IR remote may get a change to a similar design as well, and all of these may be intended for an upcoming iMac update that would prompt the cosmetic and ergonomic changes.

The FCC postings themselves have been unusual as the images were modified in a matter of minutes rather than hours or days, suggesting Apple considers the info particularly sensitive. [via Engadget]

By Electronista Staff