Microsoft has released a new fitness tracker, a wristband, whose screen shows some bit of data as you exercise. For example, the gadget will show your heart rate, how far you have walked or run, and smartphone notifications including messages, calendar, email, etc. The gadget has GPS meaning it will be able to know you location.
As of now, the gadget is available in the US only and not so many people have laid their hands on it. Availability in Australia or UK has not been announced. The few who have tested it seem not to like it. Some like, Jon Philips said at the PC World that it is uncomfortable. Molly Wood also said at the New York Times that the band is uncomfortable to wear with the screen on top. He added that the gadget feel like you are trying to fit a round wrist into a square band.
One would wonder why Microsoft has decided to make a fitness tracker while it is known to be the maker of Windows and Office and also the creator of the Xbox. But it seems that Microsoft’s new devices and cloud strategy means it is trying its hands at making something that is physical but is able to connect to the cloud so that users can know their location as well as track their exercising activities.
Microsoft fans claim that the band is “sold out” on the Microsoft’s online store, but Microsoft itself is mum about how many units have been sold indicating that the sales might not be good.
Those who have seen the band say it is clunky, ugly and the solid non-curved screen on its top isn’t rated for comfort. They also say that its heart rate monitoring is not very accurate.
Someone would excuse the producers of laptops or desktops if they come out ugly since they would still just work fine. But for a wearable, at east they need to look attractive and feel comfortable.
This is the point where Microsoft has made a mistake. When making a choice for a wearable, what they usually go for is something that looks attractive and at the same time functions well, the two qualities that the Microsoft’s Band is missing.
The Microsoft’s Band costs $199 and works on iPhones, Android and Windows devices alike. The device has an astonishing array of sensors and an OLED display which is bright and vivid. It is stiff and its sides are practically bulging with batteries. The heart-tracking green LEDs are found at its back buckle.
The Microsoft Band looks more or less like the Samsung’s Gear Fit save for its curved display. It comes in three sizes and clips on using a spring mechanism that feels secure. The Microsoft Band also has a UV sensor so when you step outdoors it can tell you how much sun you’re getting. This is a feature that is not found in any other fitness device.
