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8BitDo's Apple II-Inspired AP50 Keyboard: $500 Retro Tribute

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8BitDo has unveiled the AP50, a limited edition mechanical keyboard celebrating Apple's 50th anniversary with a design inspired by the classic Apple II. The keyboard features the iconic beige and brown color scheme of early Apple computers, housed in an all-aluminum chassis weighing 2.2 kg. The 68-key compact layout uses a gasket-mount system for improved typing acoustics and a softer keypress feel.

The AP50 comes equipped with Kailh BOX Ice Cream Pro Max switches and a hot-swappable PCB, allowing users to change switches without soldering. It includes RGB backlighting and is programmable through 8BitDo's Ultimate Software V2 or via on-keyboard fast-mapping. The keyboard offers versatile connectivity with wired USB, 2.4G wireless, and Bluetooth LE options, compatible with macOS, Windows 10+, and Android 9.0+.

Powering the device is a 6500 mAh battery rated for up to 300 hours of use with a 9-hour charge time. The package includes Wireless Dual Super Buttons, a 2.4G adapter, and a USB cable. Priced at $499.99, the AP50 clearly targets collectors and enthusiasts rather than budget-conscious shoppers, marking a premium tribute to Apple's computing heritage.