Elecom will release IST PLUS, an updated version of its ergonomic IST trackball that launched in 2023, in late June 2026[1]. The new model adds multi-pairing for up to three devices over Bluetooth and 2.4 GHz wireless, along with onboard memory that stores button assignments inside the device itself[1]. It also adopts silent switches on the left and right buttons, reflecting feedback collected from existing IST users[1].
A redesigned support unit for smooth ball motion
IST PLUS uses a 36 mm thumb-operated ball that strikes a balance between wide pointer travel and fine-grained control[1].
The lineup splits into two variants based on how the ball is supported[1]. The ball-roller M-IT10MRS series uses rollers that freely rotate in any direction, reducing friction for smoother ball motion[1]. Elecom notes that the patent-pending support structure is designed to resist dust accumulation, so users can keep using the product without frequent maintenance[1].
The bearing-based M-IT11MRS series adopts high-performance bearings supplied by MinebeaMitsumi[1]. The further reduction in friction is meant to produce a sensation of the ball floating in mid-air[1]. Because the bearings do not rub the surface of the ball, dust is less likely to collect on the support unit, allowing for long-term, maintenance-free use according to Elecom[1].
The support unit can be detached easily with a dedicated removal tool that ships in the box, and users can swap between roller, bearing, and artificial-ruby support pieces depending on preference[1]. The replacement bearing unit M-BS10 and ruby unit M-RS10 are sold separately[1]. A small opening on the underside lets users pop the ball out for cleaning the interior[1].
Multi-pairing and onboard memory
Connectivity is the area that received the biggest upgrade in this generation[1]. IST PLUS supports both Bluetooth and 2.4 GHz USB wireless via a bundled receiver, and it can register up to three devices at once[1]. A side button cycles through the registered devices, and three LEDs (white, blue, and green) indicate the active channel[1].
The default configuration assigns Bluetooth to channels 1 and 2 and 2.4 GHz USB wireless to channel 3, which suits scenarios where a PC, tablet, and smartphone are paired simultaneously[1]. The trackball works with Windows, macOS, Chromebook, iPad, iPhone, and Android tablets, with iOS and Android limited to Bluetooth[1]. If users want two or more devices to connect over 2.4 GHz USB wireless at the same time, they need a separately sold ELECOM Bridge E receiver (M-ER10GY) configured through the Elecom Mouse Assistant utility[1].
Button assignments can be stored as three profiles in onboard memory[1]. Because the settings travel with the device, the same button layout follows the user even when they switch between a corporate PC and a personal one[1]. The Elecom Mouse Assistant utility also lets users adjust pointer speed between 100 and 4,000 DPI, with the device defaulting to 500 DPI[1].
Silent switches and refined ergonomics
The trackball has five buttons in total, including dedicated forward and back keys[1]. The left and right buttons use silent switches that preserve a tactile click and durability while suppressing noise[1]. Silent-type switches are also used for the remaining buttons, which Elecom positions as a benefit for meetings or quiet hours at home[1].
The bundled ELECOM Bridge E USB receiver supports up to seven paired devices and is engineered to reduce interference for a stable connection[1]. Both the receiver and the support-unit removal tool tuck into the body itself, making them less likely to get lost when the trackball is carried around[1].
A power switch sits on the top surface so users can turn the device on or off without flipping it over[1]. IST PLUS runs on a single AA battery, and an LED indicates the active channel, power state, pairing status, and an estimate of when the battery needs to be replaced[1]. The product is certified under Elecom's THINK ECOLOGY label, which requires at least a 20 percent reduction in packaging plastic compared with the company's internal baseline[1].
Pricing and lineup
The ball-roller models M-IT10MRSBK (black) and M-IT10MRSWH (white) carry a street price of 8,380 yen including tax, while the bearing models M-IT11MRSBK and M-IT11MRSWH are priced at 10,980 yen, a 2,600 yen gap[1]. Shipments are scheduled for late June 2026[1].
Pre-orders open on the Elecom online store at noon on May 26, with a limited 2,000 yen discount applied to the early batch[1]. Detailed specifications and supported operating systems are also available on Elecom's official news release page[2].
Summary
IST PLUS is a measured evolution of the IST trackball, keeping its ergonomic shape and maintainable internals while adding the modern essentials of multi-device pairing, onboard memory, and silent switches. At 8,380 yen for the roller model and 10,980 yen for the bearing model, the price gap lets buyers pick between ball feel and budget. For anyone wanting to ease wrist strain during long desk sessions or to drive several devices from one pointer, IST PLUS looks like a sensible candidate.
Source: https://prtimes.jp/main/html/rd/p/000001417.000026881.html
