Microsoft’s Universal Foldable Keyboard promises to change the game for smart device users

THIS foldable keyboard developed by Microsoft promises to offer a solution to many gripes of smart device users.

This foldable keyboard is pure genius

USING the keypad on your smart device can be hard work, but it is still easier than lugging around a bulky wireless keyboard.

Thankfully, Microsoft has created a new device that works as a solution to both of these problems.

Aptly titled Universal Foldable Keyboard, (UFK) Microsoft’s latest product has been designed to be one of the smallest and most durable portable Bluetooth keyboards on the market.

DESIGN

With portability being the main focus for the design, it is safe to say Microsoft absolutely nailed it.

Measuring a measly 147.6mm long x 125.3mm wide x 11.5mm high when closed shut, the keyboard can easily fit into a purse, bag or pocket.

The device obviously doubles in length and halves in height when opened, although it is still small enough for use on the road.

To stick with the theme of portability, Microsoft has encased the product with a fabric similar to that used on the Surface keyboards.

Not only does this fabric make the product durable to bumps and scratches, but it protects the keyboards from any small spillages that might occur.

In addition, the device has also been fitted with magnets to ensure it will remain locked closed while not in use.

The one downside to the folding design is the fact there is gap in the middle of the keyboard.

This means users will have to get used to reaching that little bit further to hit the keys divided by the gap, although it doesn’t take long to adapt.

While this may be off-putting for some, it’s a small price to pay for space-saving device.

The gap in the middle of the keyboard is the only real concern.

FUNCTIONALITY

Despite being a Microsoft product, the UFK has been designed to wirelessly pair with any Windows, Android or Apple device.

Even more impressive is the fact two devices can be synched to the keyboard at any point in time — switching between these only takes a single touch.

The initial set up of the device is so simple even those who struggle with technology should find it a breeze.

When the keyboard is opened, it immediately powers on and users only need to hold one of the two Bluetooth buttons for three seconds.

A small light above to chosen Bluetooth button will illuminate, which tells users they can now press the “OS” button to cycle through the devices they wish to connect.

Once selected, the smart device will ask for the user to type a small security code on the keyboard and after this has been entered, it is ready to use.

As for the battery life, Microsoft boasts the keyboard can function for up to three months from a single charge.

While news.com.au can’t confirm this specifically, we can say the battery is yet to fade after a week of solid use.

IS IT WORTH YOUR HARD EARNED?

If you are fed up with using the built in keypad on your smart device and are looking for something that mimics a laptop experience, it is definitely worth your money.

And with the UFK retailing for just under $129, it is cheap enough to justify.

So, if you work on the road or are just looking for a creature comfort, it’s hard to look past this ultra-thin, lightweight, spill-resistant keyboard.

Seriously small.