It looks like the curtains have been raised early on Microsoft’s attempt to join the wearable game. Windows Central points out that sync apps have appeared in the Mac and Android app stores (update: and Microsoft’s), set to personalize and track data for your “Microsoft Band.” Rumors had pointed to a fitness tracker more than a watch that could debut within weeks, and judging by the apps that’s just what we’ll get. According to the Google Play, Windows Phone Store and iTunes listings, the device itself has more in common with Nike’s FuelBand than the what we’ve seen from Apple and Google so far. That includes tracking steps, heartbeat, calories burned and sleep quality. 9to5Mac linked a privacy agreement that goes into even deeper detail about what else it can do, namely display notifications from your mobile device or take notes and set reminders with Cortana.
Update: Microsoft confirmed that the Band will go on sale for $199 Thursday in its online and physical stores, to US customers only, in “limited quantities.” It carries ten sensors onboard to measure things from heart rate to UV exposure to stress levels, and is designed to last as much as 48 hours on a single charge.
The Microsoft Health service that does all the heavy lifting of storing data and syncing notifications to the Band’s 310 x 102 res display is similar to Apple HealthKit and Google Fit, but the plan here is to open it up for use on devices and platforms built by others. According to a trusted source, we’re hearing that not only is the device cross platform-ready, Microsoft will look for other companies (think Samsung, HTC, Pebble, Fitbit) to make their devices Microsoft Health compatible. That way they can sync into the data and notifications immediately, all powered by the Microsoft backend. Oh, and one more thing from our source: this Band will only be sold at Microsoft Stores and online. A tweet indicates fitness activities are planned for tomorrow, so maybe we’ll see a launch then.
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'Microsoft Band' fitness tracker leaks out (update: goes on sale Thursday for $199)
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