Why are Bluetooth Peripherals So Expensive?

[ppc_michael]

Why is it that peripherals operating on Bluetooth, like the Apple wireless mouse and keyboard, for example, are so darned expensive? I mean, I could tolerate spending a few more bucks considering that the device has to perform all the functions that a "wired" one does plus modulate and transmit a signal. But I mean, prices tend to be around twice that of a wired version. Can this be justified?

Also, I'm looking for a bluetooth keyboard for my PowerBook so if anyone has suggestions, it would be appreciated.

 

[w_parietti22]

Why is it that peripherals operating on Bluetooth, like the Apple wireless mouse and keyboard, for example, are so darned expensive? I mean, I could tolerate spending a few more bucks considering that the device has to perform all the functions that a "wired" one does plus modulate and transmit a signal. But I mean, prices tend to be around twice that of a wired version. Can this be justified?

Also, I'm looking for a bluetooth keyboard for my PowerBook so if anyone has suggestions, it would be appreciated.

Bluetooth vs. wired... let see... price of Wire. $2... Price of bluetooth chip $30... hmmm...

I don't mean to be rude or anything... but there is advantages to bluetooth... that a wired mouse doesnt offer:

1.) 0-30ft distance from computer vs. 0-29in. away from computer

2.) easier to move... dont have to drag a wire around.

3.) More portablity... dont have to tie up a wire everytime you want to take your mouse anywhere.

4.) Looks... no ugly wires showing.

The only major downsides are price and batteires.

 

[cheekyspanky]

..because they know people will pay.

If people didn't buy the bluetooth accessories the manufacturers would drop the price to a level where sales took off. I guess the current price point offers a good sales to profit ratio.

 

[maxterpiece]

bluetooth is way more expensive than just the USB wireless alternatives. This is because until very recently only high end computers came with bluetooth, so anyone with a bluetooth enabled computer probably wouldn't be concerned about spending alot extra for bluetooth peripherals.

Even though I had bluetooth on my computer I went with a USB wireless keyboard because I couldn't justify spending an extra $70 or so just to save a USB port and not have a little receiver on my desk.

 

[widgetguy]

Nowadays they are getting a lot cheaper, i have notice a huge price drop in the past 2 months i just brought a brand new bluetoother motorola ear piece for my nextel phone for like 35 shipped