Microsoft Surface Power Cover available for pre-order, ships March 19th (US)

When Microsoft announce the 2^nd generation of Surface devices also announced was the Power Cover. The cover is has the moving key keyboard and track pad (like the Type Cover) and has a built in battery that Microsoft say will extend the Surface charge time by 70%. One of the great things about the Surface is the battery life and the power keyboard really extends the time between charges of the Surface. The cover which works with Surface 2, Surface Pro and Surface Pro 2 is available for pre-order in the US Microsoft Store for $199 with a ship date of March 19^th. Microsoft’s UK store doesn’t list the Power Cover yet (it’s information page was removed from the store last month).

Surface Power Cover info from Microsoft:

Extends battery life while you work

Work with the speed and functionality of a classic laptop keyboard while extending the battery life of your Surface up to 70% with the Power Cover. It also recharges your Surface’s battery while you work. You’ll have plenty of juice to stay unplugged all day in the office, during a full day of classes, or on a cross-country flight.

Windows shortcut, function keys, media controls, and trackpad

The Power Cover has all the standard features of a classic QWERTY keyboard—a full row of Function keys (F1-F12), Windows shortcut keys, media controls, and a trackpad make it easy to navigate your Surface without taking your hands off the keyboard. An ultra-thin trackpad lets you control the cursor with your fingertip.

Doubles as screen cover

Fold the Power Cover back like a book cover to get the full touchscreen experience—the keys are disabled when the cover is flipped back. When closed, the Power Cover shuts down your display to preserve battery life, and helps protect the screen from bumps and scratches when you’re on the move.