Microsoft's cross-platform smartwatch tipped for October release

Himanshu Arora

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Almost a month after it was reported that Microsoft is planning to offer a sensor-rich smartwatch that measures heart rate, a few more details have emerged about the wearable device. Tom's Hardware reports that the device will have 11 sensors, open APIs, and more, and will be released in October.

The report claims that a "trusted source" has confirmed that the smartwatch will indeed be cross-platform compatible, which means that you'll be able to use it with Windows Phone, iOS or Android devices. This would actually be a good move, as it would open the wearable device up to a larger user base.

microsoft watch sensors fitness smartwatch wearables wearable tech health tracking cross-platform

The source also confirmed that the display screen will be positioned on the band on the inside of the wearer’s wrist. The logic behind the placement is: turning your palm up to look at the watch actually feels a lot more natural.

While it was previously reported that the device will look similar to the Samsung Gear Fit, the new report suggests that the device will have a slim band design, resembling a thinner, flatter version of the Nike Fuelband. The interface is also said to be "pretty slick".

As far as the hardware is concerned, the details are scant. However, the report does reveal that there are 11 sensors under the hood, as well as chips from Atmel, TI and others. When reached out for a comment, a Microsoft spokesperson said, "Microsoft does not comment on rumors or speculation".

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This could be a win for Microsoft --- assuming it has attractive features and is priced below the Android & iOS alternatives. Why buy a "3rd party" Smart Watch if its no cheaper than first party design. Because let's face it, 9 times out of 10 the first party design will offer more functionality than a third party. Esspecially when it comes to Google supporting Microsoft's platform & software. So be smart this go around Microsoft.
 
The only way this will be a real "win" is if this wristband/smartwatch can fully function independently from smartphones. What I mean by this is that all info that's critical can be displayed on the band itself - otherwise, just another gimmick, imo.
 
Been wearing a watch for years and I don't have it positioned on the underneath of my wrist. Hope its optional to wear it that way. Be interested in how this works out anyway.
 
I was bitten by the Gear 2/Neo from Samsung - after watching the launch Apps. Like the hardware, but only one of the Apps shown at the launch show is available - and it doesn't work!

Samsung now announce that they are releasing another watch with a different (Android Wear) OS. We are being taken for mugs.

As a 7yr Apple user now moving back over to Microsoft, I hope this device will be better. But I won't be buying another 1st gen gadget for a while.
 
Very excited for this. MS has a real good chance to show off something neat. Let's hope they execute it right.
 
Bah! I'll wait for the dust to settle and smartwatches to have gone through a few generations then I'll take a gander at what the fuss is all about.
 
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