Griffin Technology, one of the world's foremost creators of innovations for everyday life, will unveil a new wireless version of its PowerMate at CES 2014, PowerMate Bluetooth, a stylish power tool for the novice and pro computer user. Described as a clickable knob, PowerMate can be programmed to execute a wide array of key commands in virtually any application. Users can streamline routine tasks such as editing home movies like a pro, scrolling through long documents, or creating audio masterpieces.
'First introduced in 2001, PowerMate has proven to have exceptional staying power within the CE marketplace, an industry known for its rapid product life cycles and fated obsolescence,' said Mark Rowan, President at Griffin Technology. 'The original PowerMate, with its timeless design and functionality, has garnered a dedicated user base and we're certain PowerMate Bluetooth will carry on the legacy.'PowerMate Bluetooth functions beautifully as a convenient volume knob and mute button for Bluetooth 4.0 enabled Mac computers, but that's just the beginning of its possibilities. PowerMate is preset to work with iMovie and GarageBand right out of the box, making editing a breeze. But it's not just for multimedia; users can follow the easy instructions to add custom commands within their preferred applications. Spin PowerMate like a wheel to quickly move through large multimedia files, spreadsheets, and word processor documents, or click it like a mouse to select text or perform commands.
This gleaming brushed aluminum desktop peripheral is most recognizable by its blue glowing base. Users can control the behavior of this pulsing LED to provide system status at a glance. Multiple PowerMates can be paired through Bluetooth, with no entangling wires, allowing users to assign various commands to each.
Although the PowerMate can replace repetitive keystrokes and solve the most routine of tasks, it has also taken on a life of its own among creative computer hackers over the years. PowerMate fans have created everything from custom audio visualizer programs to games to Intelligent MIDI controllers and even car entertainment systems that feature PowerMate.
In addition to the many clever programming hacks users have developed with PowerMate, Griffin's iconic accessory has crossed over into pop culture as well. Among various cameos, PowerMate was prominently featured in the 2013 summer blockbuster movie Pacific Rim, as well as the 2005 thriller The Island, starring Ewan McGregor and Scarlett Johansson.
PowerMate Bluetooth will be available Summer 2014 for $59.99.