Traditional mice remain well suited to tasks that require fast movement and precise control, including gaming, graphic design and video editing. Vertical mice, meanwhile, are commonly considered for prolonged office work because their design allows the hand to rest in a more natural handshake-like position. DUO attempts to bring both approaches into one peripheral.

The concept uses a folding rear section to switch between its two configurations. When the mouse is placed in vertical mode, additional sensors positioned on one side allow it to operate in the altered orientation. Its flexible leg can also be folded to different levels, giving users the ability to adjust the angle of the vertical grip according to their preferred hand position.

DUO is designed with a built-in rechargeable system rather than disposable batteries. Besides removing the need for AA or AAA cells, this approach is intended to keep the mouse better balanced when it is being used vertically, where the position and weight of a conventional battery could affect handling.

Repairability is another consideration in the design. The flexible leg uses a magnetic attachment system, allowing the component to be detached and replaced if necessary. Such a mechanism could be particularly useful because repeated folding and unfolding may eventually place stress on the moving components and outer shell.

There is, however, an obvious question surrounding long-term durability. A vertical mouse relies on part of its structure to remain in contact with the working surface, and prolonged dragging in this position could expose the flexible section to additional wear.

For now, DUO remains a concept rather than a commercial product. Its combination of adjustable ergonomics, convertible form and replaceable components nevertheless presents an interesting direction for future computer peripherals.

According to Yankodesign