6/5/2006

Kensington Survey Shows that Notebook Computer is a Constant Companion; Introducing 20 New Notebook Accessories

Kensington, a worldwide leader in mobile computing accessories, announced today the introduction of 20 new products for the mobile consumer just in time for Dads, Grads and Back to School consumer buying season. The new products include four additions to Kensington's market leading MicroSaver® line of laptop locks, the most expansive launch of laptop cases in Kensington's history, and new mice, presenters and a video capable universal laptop dock.

Have Notebook, Will Travel
According to analysts laptop PCs are expected to grow 30% in 2006 with sales reaching 70 million units worldwide. This growth is an indication that laptop computers have now become for many an essential productivity tool, whether for work or personal use. According to a recent survey commissioned by Kensington, nearly 70% of men and nearly 60% of women surveyed said that they were either very likely or somewhat likely to take their laptop computer with them on vacation.

"We're delighted to be announcing a wide range of products that help our customers better enjoy their mobile lifestyles," said Rob Humphrey, Director of Marketing, Kensington. "Notebook computers have become indispensable to our lives, and the new Kensington products make their laptop experience more enjoyable, productive and secure."

Kensington Offers Mobile Users What They Want
Kensington accessories have wide appeal for mobile users who need to have ultimate productivity while on the go. Kensington answers this need with a variety of products that allow for the best computing experience:

MicroSaver Notebook Locks
Through recent high profile media reports many consumers have become increasingly aware of the susceptibility of their laptop PCs to theft. What many don't know is that every brand name laptop PCs has a built-in Kensington security slot to enable theft deterrence and prevention. Long the leader in physical laptop security, Kensington is introducing four new MicroSaver locks with improved locking mechanisms, stronger steel cables, superior design and enhanced styling. The new locks resist lock tampering and theft attempt. The complete line of Kensington laptop locks include both keyed and combination solutions and are available now at suggested retail prices (SRP) of $39.99 to $69.99.

Contour™ Notebook Carrying Cases
Kensington's consumer survey also showed that Style and Comfort were the most important criteria for selecting computer carrying cases. Roughly 40% of men and women viewed Style and Comfort each as the most important purchasing criteria. Kensington is introducing nine new Contour cases that are exclusively endorsed by the American Chiropractor Association (ACA). Combining a proprietary contoured panel and intelligent weight distribution system, these cases shift their weight to the user's stronger, load-bearing muscles, effectively lightening the load and reducing muscle fatigue by up to thirty-five percent (35%).* Designed to accommodate the growing number of laptop users, the cases target four distinct market segments - the frequent business traveler, the daily commuter, the urban gadget lover, and the light traveler. These cases are available June 15 and range in SRP from $29.99 to $99.99.

Notebook Expansion Dock with Video
Expanding its laptop dock line, Kensington is introducing the Notebook Expansion Dock with Video which uses powerful port replication technology to utilize a single USB port to connect your laptop to USB peripherals, speakers, keyboards and mice, and even runs 17" and 19" desktop monitors at native display resolutions with high-fidelity image quality. A unique wedge design lifts the laptop and increasing airflow to aid cooling. This product is available now at $179.99 SRP.

New Mice and Wireless Presenters
Expanding its line of award winning mice, Kensington is introducing three new mice: Ci60 Wireless Optical Mouse, Ci20 Optical Mouse Pro, and Si300 Laser Mouse.

The Ci60 Wireless Optical Mouse offers wireless convenience while combining the comfort of soft rubberized grips and innovative right-handed design with the precision and accuracy of DiamondEye® optical technology. With five programmable buttons that can be customized to streamline important tasks such as launching applications or navigating Web sites, these mice are the perfect combination of comfort, control, and convenience.

The Ci20 Optical Mouse combines the comfort of soft rubberized grips and innovative right-handed design with the precision and accuracy of DiamondEye® optical technology. With five programmable buttons that can be customized to streamline important tasks such as launching applications or navigating Web sites, these mice are the perfect combination of comfort, control, and convenience.

The Si300 Laser Mouse offers precise laser tracking, 4-way tilt-scroll wheel, flexible rubber grips for excellent comfort and control and is designed for both left and right-handed users.

Kensington looks to extend its market leading position in wireless presenters with the introduction of two new products, the Wireless Presenter with Laser Pointer and the Wireless Presenter. These presenters empower users to control their presentation anywhere in the room--up to 60 feet away. Conveniently portable and easy-to-use with 2.4GHz wireless technology for secure and reliable performance along with smart power management. Additionally, wireless USB receiver stores inside the palm-sized controller for carrying convenience and acts as the on/off switch. Designed to fit comfortably in the palm of your hand.

All of these products are available June 15 and range in price from $24.99 to $59.99 SRP.

New iPod® Accessory
Expanding its iPod accessory line, Kensington is introducing the 4-in 1-Car Charger for iPod®. Driving and your iPod naturally go together. Keep the sound moving with the Kensington 4-in-1 Car Charger for iPod that powers click wheel iPods, including iPod nano, and iPod with video. A pass-through connector keeps FM Transmitters on, even while charging your iPod or other USB devices.

Notes to editors

About Kensington

Kensington is a leading provider of desktop and mobile device accessories, trusted by IT, educators, business and home office professionals around the world for more than 35 years. Kensington products empower people to dynamically interact with content, creating a better working experience for productive performance. In both office and mobile environments, Kensington’s extensive portfolio of award-winning products provides trusted security, desktop productivity innovations, and ergonomic well-being. Our core competencies in engineering, industrial design, product quality and responsive customer support make Kensington The Professionals’ Choice^™.

Headquartered in San Mateo, California, Kensington operates as the technology division of ACCO Brands (NYSE: ACCO), one of the world’s largest designers, marketers and manufacturers of branded business, academic and consumer products, sold in more than 100 countries across the globe.

Kensington is the inventor and worldwide leader in laptop security locks, the acknowledged leader of Trackball innovation and offers a broad range of premium-branded desktop productivity solutions.