I’m a fan of smart wearable devices. I’ve yet to own one, but unlike a lot of people (like Geoff), I actually see the value in having a watch or smart band everywhere I go. I guess it’s because most of the common features are ones I would use, especially when it comes to health and fitness tracking. That’s why I’m already very excited about Microsoft’s entry into the smart wearable tech market.
The Microsoft Band is a new, cross-platform smart band that will launch in the USA today. Along with the device, Microsoft also revealed a new health based cloud service called Microsoft Health, which works hand-in-hand with the device. Unlike Apple’s HealthKit or Google’s Fitbit though, Microsoft Health will be available on all platforms. That really makes the Microsoft Band something that competes with other fitness devices rather than Samsung’s Gear range or the upcoming Apple Watch. The Band features a 310 x 102 res display, which is able to relay information such as your heart rate, running route and even UV exposure levels straight to your wrist.
The genius comes with the Band’s “Intelligence Engine”, which is able to automatically tell you which workouts burned the most calories and how well you’ve been sleeping. The best part is the built-in GPS though, which will allow you to go on runs or perform workouts without the phone needing to be nearby for data tracking.
No word yet on availability outside of the USA, but that should come fairly soon. The Band will retail for $200 in the States, making it a useful but rather expensive fitness accessory. Although, the built-in GPS and cross-platform support already make it far more interesting than most other smart wearables on the market now.
Last Updated: January 4, 2017
Admiral Chief 0
October 30, 2014 at 09:08
If Trev hooked it up to his arm, the counter would break
#blatantgrossjoke
RinceThis
October 30, 2014 at 09:31
0_O Wow, no, sorry. I’m supposed to do THIS! XD #stayRegularTrev #opps
CAE9872
October 30, 2014 at 09:09
My cell gives me the time to within an accurate enough place to be OK – so no need for a band.
Mark Treloar
October 30, 2014 at 09:14
Exercise will kill you
Hammersteyn
October 30, 2014 at 09:21
Fake ass adds with fake ass people. So tired of it. Still seems like a cool gadget, Can’t wait till they release one with a camera, people will look even more retarded when they take a selfie.
Spathi
October 30, 2014 at 09:25
People will be able to take a selfie of them taking a selfie! Selfception to the max!!
Mark Treloar
October 30, 2014 at 09:35
Gear 2 has a camera
Hammersteyn
October 30, 2014 at 09:42
Selfie!
RinceThis
October 30, 2014 at 09:27
“I actually see the value in having a watch or smart band everywhere I go” Much like that ‘ankle bracelet’ that those men gave you after that ‘incident’ at the park?
Ryanza
October 30, 2014 at 09:31
Health and fitness tracking. NSA tracking. And of course drone tracking.
RinceThis
October 30, 2014 at 09:43
Speaking of droning on.. I mean 0-O
Ghost In The Rift
October 30, 2014 at 09:50
Are you gonna get the feeling that someone(some thing) is watching you while you jog??