Microsoft announced the next generation of its wearable, the Microsoft Band 2 – and it has some major (and much needed) upgrades!
Although the exterior wristlet seems similar to that of the original Microsoft band, the team claims that the new band has been refashioned to be more flexible and curved. The curvature can be attributed to the screen, which was developed with Gorilla Glass 3, making it more responsive to touch. The new band has 32 X 18mm, 320 X 128 pixel AMOLED display. The Microsoft Band’s higher capacity battery lasts up to 48 hours with regular use.
The new features include a barometer for measuring elevation and the measurement of VO2 max for running and sports, which will enable users to recover effectively from hard training sessions in the Microsoft Health App. The band is still considered to be one of the most competent fitness trackers on the market with its UV detection and inbuilt GPS for running and cycling training. The integrated Cortana provides workout reminders, guided workouts, and smartphone notifications (emails, texts, calendar alerts). The most standout feature is the incorporated Golf Training app, courtesy of TaylorMade, that uses the devices gyroscope and accelerometer to track golf swings. Overall, there are 11 sensors encompassed in the Microsoft Band 2.
The Microsoft Band retails at $249 and is available to pre-order now. It will be available for purchase on October 30th.
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