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Microsoft Surface Dial Review: Windows 10 Creators Update To Introduce New Features; Device Performance Depends On Developers’ Skills

Microsoft Surface Dial Review: Windows 10 Creators Update To Introduce New Features; Device Performance Depends On Developers’ Skills

Ritwik Roy

The Microsoft Surface Dial is an incredibly logical device. Of all its qualities, one that is really amazing is that it bridges the dichotomy between a mouse and a keyboard. A user needs both hands to use a keyboard and needs to stop using the keyboard when using the mouse. The Surface Dial is a genius as it allows the user to be more productive by giving the other hand equal importance. The device changes the dynamic of using a mouse and keyboard.

According to Forbes, the Microsoft Surface Dial's functionality is contextual. It varies depending on the application one is using and what a user is doing at that moment. Those who are not much aware of the product, the Surface Dial is a "small aluminum puck that can be depressed like a button, or rotated left and right. It also provides haptic feedback-small vibrations that let you know it's doing something."

As regards the functions of the Microsoft Surface Dial, users can access the on-screen radial menu by pushing down on the device. This menu allows users to select the functionality he wants to use. Those who want to use the Surface Dial for normal use in Windows 10, may use it to control volume, scroll, zoom, move back and forth between tracks among others. Unwinding actions are also supported by the device such as "undo" or replaying things drawn on Display with Windows Ink.

However, that's not where the Microsoft Surface Dial's real abilities lie. The best thing about this device is that it allows developers to customize its functionality for specific applications. Interestingly, the Surface Dial is a type of device whose performance depends mostly on the developer using it. It's a pretty cool device available under $100. If used the right way, the device can be used for just about any application.

Microsoft will be releasing the Windows 10 Creators Update very soon that will come with a huge number of new features and updates. New per-app Microsoft Surface Dial settings are already included in the Windows Insider version and it will also be a part of the Creators Update, states Windows blog.

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