MS’ next keyboard with fingerprint lock

Microsoft is now working on its latest desktop Bluetooth keyboard, and according to recently-discovered information, this accessory is likely to integrate a fingerprint sensor for easy authentication via Windows Hello.

The device is called Microsoft Modern Keyboard, also codenamed C3K1780, and has showed up in official FCC documents with new details that indicate more features that Microsoft is planning in order to align with its Windows 10 push. Particularly the new keyboard is slated to be similar to the Surface keyboard that Microsoft has launched together with the Surface Studio in the fall of the last year, but instead feature some extra options as well.

One of the keyboard’s interesting features is the fingerprint sensor, which Microsoft will most likely use to allow users to configure Windows Hello without the need for a dedicated infrared camera.

The fingerprint sensor will probably be placed in a convenient position near the numeric keypad and is slated to support easy authentication to the desktop, as it’s the case on a number of laptops featuring such hardware. There is also a good possibility that Microsoft’s keyboard may feature exquisite materials like Alcantara as well — more recently, the company took the wraps off the Surface Laptop, whose keyboard is also covered in Alcantara, so Microsoft could go for the same materials for more of its keyboards as well.

Microsoft has not yet confirmed a launch date or pricing details. But the software giant is holding a new event this week in Shanghai where it is touted to launch a new Surface upgrade and other accessories. So this could be a chance that the keyboard will be unveiled.