14 DAY TRIAL // A new version of a developer tool designed to enable the creation of applications that support multiple users with individual mouse devices simultaneously is now available for download. The Windows MultiPoint Mouse Software Development Kit is now up to version 1.5.1, introducing a few enhancements since the previous release of the SDK. According to the Redmond company, the focus with version 1.5.1 of the Windows MultiPoint Mouse was on kicking up a notch the user experience in terms of performance, but also device support.
“New features in Windows Multipoint Mouse SDK 1.5.1 compared with version 1.5: Improved performance on low-end modern hardware, especially Atom-based netbooks. Improved device detection (PS/2, trackpad, and Bluetooth mouse devices are now supported),” Microsoft revealed.
The previous release of the development framework, namely version 1.5, was offered in mid-January 2010. As of the start of 2010, the evolution of the SDK has made it possible for developers to build Multipoint-enabled applications tailored to Windows 7 and Windows Server 2008 R2.
The MultiPoint Mouse SDK is just one aspect of the Redmond company’s vision involving shared computing resources. Enabling multiple individual mouse devices to be used simultaneously on a single computer is one way to compensate for the lack of IT resources, especially in schools. Apps built with MultiPoint can be used by up to 25 students simultaneously on just one machine, allowing all to benefit from the technology.
In the second half of February 2010, Windows MultiPoint Server 2010 was launched, offering an OS built to streamline sharing of computing resources. Windows MultiPoint Server 2010 can be installed on a central computer and have users connect to it via individual mice/keyboards and monitors, replicating the experience of a full PC. As of February 24th, 2010, Microsoft’s OEM partners have started offering Windows MultiPoint Server 2010 preinstalled on new computers.
Windows MultiPoint Mouse Software Development Kit 1.5.1 is available for download here.