Microsoft Surprises With New Band

Last week Microsoft caught everybody out by releasing its Microsoft Band. In line with the modern trend this is a fitness focused device that you wear like a watch but it can connect to both iOS and OS X and it will even integrate with Apple’s HeathKit.

Retailing at just $199 and providing two days of runtime of a single charge the band will track your heart rate 24 hours a day. A built in GPS feature allows you to track runs which is a great feature for those of us who do not like running with a phone strapped to your arm or bashing around in your pocket. It is also worth noting that the new Apple Watch does not come with GPS.

Users will also be able to follow routines on the band. It will provide complete work outs telling you when you should stop and rest through a buzz on your wrist. In addition to the “Guided Workout” service you will also be able to test the UV Index at your current location. The Band will even tell you how long it will be before your burn. We can only assume that this was designed with California in mind rather than Birmingham! Even still is a cool addition.

You get the usual smartphoneesque array of features including messaging, mail and calls. To customise the Band you will be able to choose between an array of colour styles and wallpapers. Microsoft is also launching a cloud-based health service called Microsoft Health. This will gather data from both the Microsoft Band and other fitness data gathering devices. The service spans the web and multiple mobile platforms like iOS, Android and Windows Phone.