After being rumored, it is finally here. Microsoft makes their entrance into the wearable arena w/ their new Microsoft Band + Health app. It is a fitness band just a the rumors suggested. So if you were anticipating a smartwatch, I don’t think Microsoft is there yet. Not that they can’t do one but they need more software things aligned to make it happen.
So for starters, the Health app is their version of Google Fit or Apple’s Health Kit. The folks at Redmond utilizes a new way to measure all of this fitness data its recording called the Intelligence Engine. This helps show off things like exactly what exercises burned the most energy/calories, how good you’ve been sleeping, how long you body needs to recover from your last workout and more. The Health app will utilize info form your Outlook calendar and GPS data as well as the ability to share data w/ your doctor. It will also work w/ apps like UP by Jawbone, MapMyFitness, MyFitnessPal, and RunKeeper at launch w/ more support on the way.
Microsoft plays nice as the band will work w/ Android or iOS as well.
It uses a 1.4inch 320 x 106 resolution touchscreen display that shows you your calls, texts, emails, tweets, weather, Facebook messages + notifications, calendar alerts, and Starbucks card. If its the mobile side of Microsoft, you know it will be powered by Cortana as the band is no different. The Band is comprised off a total of 10 sensors like a built-in GPS to capture data like heart rate, UV exposure, stress levels, calorie/sleep tracking, steps/running monitor, and more. It is said to last 48 hours on a single charge as it will take less than 2 hours to fully charge. The Band itself is made out of plastic w/ an adjustable strap as it still arrives in 3 different wrist sizes. Lastly, it will work w/ Windows Phone devices running 8.1, iPhones using iOS 7.1 or higher, and Android devices running 4.3 or higher.
The new Microsoft Band will launches today in the US only as it will be available for purchase via the Microsoft Store online or in-stores. Select Microsoft Stores are doing demos today w/ Zumba + yoga fitness classes along w/ drinks, snacks , and giveaways. So who’s picking one up?
