The adapter still use a USB port for power, but signals are sent wirelessly. Image via Microsoft.
The adapter still use a USB port for power, but signals are sent wirelessly. Image via Microsoft.

Microsoft is updating its wireless display adapter with a smaller size and less latency, but the best new feature is its lower price.

The new adapter goes up for preorder today and will be available March 1 for $49.95, which is $10 cheaper than the first generation model. The adapter uses a Miracast connection to wirelessly connect any display with an HDMI port to a Windows 10 device.

The new form factor is a response to how people have been using the original. With the compact and tangle-free carrying configuration, the new wireless display adapter is meant for easy setup anywhere. With people using the display adapter in hotel rooms and for business meetings, the portability of the device is a key component.

The new closed loop carrying configuration should cut down on tangles when transporting the wireless display adapter
The new closed loop carrying configuration should cut down on tangles when transporting the wireless display adapter

Microsoft also claims that it cut down the latency of the device, making it easier to use as a second screen while still not requiring a WiFi connection. While using the device to stream Netflix and YouTube videos will be pretty much the same, the reduced latency will be particularly helpful when trying to navigate web pages or type up documents on the big screen.

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