Elecom will release a revival model of the M.A.P.P. designer mouse, originally created by manga artist Masamune Shirow, in late May 2026[1]. The product keeps the distinctive form factor of the version sold in 2002 almost untouched, while updating it for modern use by switching the connection method to Bluetooth[1]. Each color is a limited production run of 3,300 units, and preorders have already started[1].
What Is M.A.P.P., Revived After 24 Years
M.A.P.P. is a designer mouse series that Elecom launched in 2002[1]. The project brought in manga artist Masamune Shirow and mechanical designer Hajime Katoki to attempt an innovative form factor unlike any peripheral that had come before[1]. The series name M.A.P.P. is taken from the initials of "THE MECHANICAL DESIGNERS ACCELERATE THE PERIPHERAL PRODUCTS"[1].
Masamune Shirow is a manga artist who made his major debut with Appleseed in 1985 and is known for works such as Ghost in the Shell and Dominion[1]. The original M.A.P.P. drew attention not only for its unique concept but also for a bold yet practical design that was carefully considered down to grip feel, weight, and stability[1].
This revival model makes no major changes to that exterior design[1]. At the same time, Masamune Shirow himself handled the redesign of some areas, such as around the newly added side buttons[1]. Another notable point is the choice of materials that resist deterioration even during storage, so the mouse can be used for a long time[1].
Feature Updates for Modern Use
Although the look remains as it was, the internals have been overhauled for today's working styles. The connection method has been changed from wired to Bluetooth wireless, and the mouse now supports multi-pairing for up to 3 devices[1]. A switch on the underside lets users change the connection target, making it easy to handle even when using a PC and a tablet together[1].
The mouse uses a 5-button layout that includes forward and back buttons, and the free Elecom Mouse Assistant software lets users assign their preferred functions to each button[1]. The software will also include a dedicated UI matched to the product's worldview[1]. Because all buttons use a silent design, the mouse can be used without worrying about noise during meetings or in places like cafes where others are nearby[1].
For power, the mouse uses a built-in lithium-ion capacitor that can be recharged repeatedly via a USB Type-C cable[1]. It withstands about 100,000 charge cycles and has a longer cycle life than a typical lithium-ion battery[1]. Continuous use on a full charge is rated at up to about 45 days, a design that reduces the hassle of frequent charging[2]. The sensor is a low-power IR LED (infrared LED), and resolution can be switched across 5 steps from 400 to 3200 DPI[1].
Price, Color Lineup, and Release Schedule
The revival model is priced at 12,800 yen and comes in 3 colors: black (M-SHIROW1BK), white (M-SHIROW1WH), and blue (M-SHIROW1SC)[2]. Blue is a newly added color, with its tone adjusted under the supervision of Masamune Shirow[2]. Each package includes an illustration card drawn by Shirow specifically for that color[2].
Preorders began on April 6, 2026 at 12:00 through the Elecom Direct Shop and other channels[1]. The product was initially scheduled for general release on May 1, but the release timing has been pushed back to late May due to shipping delays by sea[3]. The delay applies to all preorder and in-store stock, and all 3 models follow the same schedule[3]. Because each color is a limited production run of 3,300 units, anyone considering a purchase should probably act early[1].
Summary
The M.A.P.P. revival model respects the distinctive design of 2002 while delivering a mouse equipped with modern practicality, including Bluetooth connectivity, a rechargeable capacitor, and silent buttons. Being able to keep a mouse designed by Masamune Shirow, known for works like Ghost in the Shell, on your desk for everyday use looks set to be an appealing option for fans. Each color is a limited production run of 3,300 units, and the release is planned for late May.
Source:https://prtimes.jp/main/html/rd/p/000001364.000026881.html
Source:https://ascii.jp/elem/000/004/387/4387308/
Source:https://www.itmedia.co.jp/pcuser/articles/2604/27/news103.html
