The gadget was released by Microsoft recently, at the Kansas City Royals. The Microsoft Band provides fitness features, computing features and even social networking aspects among other features.
This gadget proves to be especially great for people who are fitness enthusiasts and also those who look for outdoor fun while keeping fitness levels in check. Even though the Microsoft Band is only a first generation device, it still provides some very nifty features and offers for a rich experience.
Some of the key features that Microsoft Band provides are monitoring of the user’s heart rate, tracking of steps using GPS and more. The device features a touchscreen in full color display and also features a strap which is adjustable as per user’s preferences. The gadget is completely dust and splash resistant and also features syncing with other apps including the Microsoft Health app. The device also allows users to make payments at authorized stores including Starbucks among many others.
The Microsoft band is made out of premium grade plastic. It consists of two high quality polymer lithium ion batteries of capacities of 100 mAh. The batteries are also rechargeable. On standby, the device has a battery life of 48 hours.
The Microsoft Band uses GPS very effectively when it comes to users on the move. It accurately records the routes taken while cycling, running or even hiking. For track based activities, there is a stopwatch and a lap timer integrated. Users can also set targets for daily calorie consumption or distances to be travelled. The band also features preset guides to workouts provided by professionals.
Even when a user is not active, the band continues to monitor the heart rate even during sleep. The band also checks for the level of ultraviolet light when outdoors. This monitored data is synced with Microsoft Health app and can also sync with other fitness apps including MapMyFitness and RunKeeper.
The band also syncs up with the user’s phone and provides notifications and updates regarding calls, texts, emails, social media updates and even calendar events and reminders. A preset message can be used to respond to notifications. The band also features an alarm clock. Another great feature that this device has is a do not disturb mode. This will disable all incoming notifications when activated.
Starbucks cards are also authorized and stored by the device. This entails users to easily pay and checkout at their favorite outlets without needing to deal with cash and cards.
The Windows based personal assistant, Cortana is also compatible with the Microsoft Band. The voice controlled feature can be used in conjunction with a windows 8.1 paired smartphone to the band. This allows users extreme ease of use while setting up reminders and also to store notes. The Cortana will also provide users with their favorite sports updates, traffic and many other events. Even though the domain of wearable technology is yet to be exploited to its full potential, Microsoft Band seems to have taken the first step in the right direction and provides for some really amazing features.
321