Microsoft’s wearable now rumoured to be a fitness band that displays notifications

Now that Google and its Android Wear partners have unveiled and started selling its latest smartwatches, the LG G Watch and Samsung Gear Live, the attention is turning once again to Microsoft.

The tech giant has been heavily rumoured to enter the wearable space this year with a smartwatch that’s loaded with all kinds of sensors, plus will have cross-platform compatibility. Previous reports suggested the Microsoft “Surface Watch” would connect to iOS, Android, Windows Phone devices and look like the Samsung Gear Fit with a full-colour touch display that is “about the size of half a stick of gum.”

Hopping on the rumour train is reputable Microsoft insider Paul Thurrott with a few more details. Thurrott backs the rumours that Microsoft is indeed coming to market with a wearable, only that it’s not really a smartwatch and more like a “wristband” that “you’ll be able to see the time on its screen.” The device will be able to display smart phone-based notifications from other major platforms (Android, iPhone and Windows Phone) and also work with third party apps. As for the sensors, the band will be able to track your fitness—steps, calories, and heart rate.

The finer spec details were not listed, but it’s expected that the “smart wristband” will have a 1.5-inch display and officially be announced and launched in Q4, with pricing similar to the Samsung Gear Fit.

Source: WinSupersite
Via: The Verge