Microsoft Band collects biometric data for health and fitness

Microsoft announced it has released Microsoft Band, which in addition to working with Windows-based mobiles, also syncs with iPhone and Android phones, according to a report by CNet.

Priced at $199, the Microsoft Band is equipped with 10 sensors for a range of biometrics, including tracking steps, heart rate, and sleep patterns.

The band’s UV sensor measures sun exposure while a galvanic skin response sensor notifies the user if he or she is stressed out. There are several other sensors including an optical heart rate sensor, a 3-axis accelerometer/gyro, a gyrometer, an ambient light sensor, and a skin temperature sensor.

Microsoft Band also offers premium features that go beyond the average fitness band, including GPS, heart rate monitor, a microphone for dictating notes (works with the voice-controlled Windows Phone personal assistant Cortana), notifications about messages, events and social network updates – all of which are features more typically found in a smart watch.

Also notable, the plastic band features an adjustable strap, a full-colour touchscreen, is dust- and splash-resistant, and takes two 100mAh rechargeable lithium-ion polymer batteries that are capable of powering the band for 48 hours on standby.

The biometric data gathered by Microsoft Band is synced up with an online service and app called Microsoft Health, which works with any Windows Phone device with the 8.1 update, an iPhone running iOS 7.1 or 8, or an Android phone running 4.3 or 4.4.

The band can also be used with other fitness apps and services including MyFitnessPal, RunKeeper and MapMyFitness.

Microsoft has posted a video demonstration of Microsoft Band on its website.

Article Topics

biometrics  |  fitness tracking  |  mhealth  |  Microsoft