Microsoft has announced a new Chromecast-like accessory that allows Windows, Windows Phone and Android screen mirroring.
Using Miracast technology, the “Microsoft Wireless Display Adapter” lets you wirelessly mirror the entire screen of any device running Windows 8.1, Windows Phone 8.1 or Android 4.2 or later. On Windows 8.1 it can also be set to extend the screen.
Since Miracast is an ad-hoc wireless protocol, mirroring content is not dependent on being connected to a Wi-Fi network, unlike the Chromecast.
But, like the Chromecast, it requires both an HDMI and a USB port for connectivity and power.
Not to be confused with…
The adapter should not be confused with the (also woefully named) “Microsoft Screen Sharing for Lumia” device unveiled earlier this month, though both do share similarities in using Miracast.
Microsoft is positioning the device as an ideal companion for enterprise, and talk up the benefits of showing“project presentations or documents to your workgroup… without messy wires.”
The dongle is priced at $59.99, and goes on sale in the US and Canada this October. If you’re so inclined, you can pre-order one today from the Microsoft Store.
- Source: Microsoft Blog