Differences between wireless keyboard old and new?

The newer keyboard runs on two AA batteries as opposed to three, and powers down when it's not in use.

(48409)

Hi Tony:

Welcome to Apple discussions.

I have an "older" Bluetooth keyboard and it works just fine.

For about 20 bucks, I would buy the older one. I cannot see any difference in functionality.

Incidentally, battery use is an issue that has been discussed in these forums at length.

FWIW, I use 2650 mAH Duracell rechargeables and a 15 minute charger. I have a bunch of rechargeable batteries and I am never longer than 15 minutes from a full charge. Rechargeables do not have the battery life of Lithium ones, but I really do not care for the reasons I indicated above.

Barry

I preordered the newer model for $69, and I'm waiting for it to ship.

Because I'm impatient, I picked up the older model at Best Buy. I'm HOPING the new ones ship within a couple of weeks; that way, I can return the old model and keep the new one.

The newer one will be more efficient, possibly have a better bluetooth connection, etc. In my mind, newer is almost always better. Especially for the small difference in price...

Apple released Wireless Keyboard Update 2.0 today.

The KB article says:-

"Install this software to take advantage of your 2009 aluminum Apple Wireless Keyboard's special features".

I have have been searching quite hard to find out what the special new features of the 2009 version are, and have come up with nothing except the two battery/autoswitch off feature.

Anyone know any more?

BTW the update is built in to 10.6.2, so not needed when you update to this.