The Microsoft Band, the company’s much-anticipated smartwatch device, is available to purchase today from the Microsoft Store, beating the Apple Watch to the market by months. Microsoft decided to opt for a stealth release of the device, revealing details regarding the new tech last night (October 29th) before putting it on sale today.
The Band is powered by Microsoft Health, software which “helps you achieve your wellness goals by tracking your heart rate, steps, calorie burn, and sleep quality.” It also allows email previews and calendar alerts.
The Microsoft Band is compatible with your iPhone, Android or Windows Phone.
While certainly not as packed with features as the Apple Watch, it does come in it at a lower price point, currently retailing for $199.99. Whereas the Apple Watch has a keen eye on fitness similar to the iPhone 6 though is also packed with an abundance of other apps, the Microsoft Band is firmly focused on health, and as such it’s operating in a completely different, more affordable league than Apple’s.
The Microsoft Band will be compatible with your existing iPhone, Android or Windows Phone, with apps for the device currently being available on the App Store and Google Play Store. While the Apple Watch remains the more interesting prospect, the Microsoft Band certainly has a place on the market. When one considers its subdued release, it’s difficult to predict how well it will perform; at that price point it’ll certainly find a market.
