The Microsoft Band is a wearable that looks understated but is packed with a surprising number of functions including some smartwatch functions and fitness tracking.
This wristband has 10 sensors and can track your steps, distance traveled, calories burned as well as the quality and duration of your sleep. It lets you set daily step and calorie burning goals. It also has a UV monitor -- which helps you decide if you need to apply sunscreen -- and built-in GPS.
Even though it's a Microsoft product, the band is refreshingly not picky about which smartphones it connects to. It connects to Windows Phones, iOS and Android devices via Bluetooth. Once it established a Bluetooth connection to a device, it will show email previews, incoming calls and text messages.
The Microsoft Band is available in three different sizes for $200, and can be purchased online and in Microsoft stores.
Why This Trend Is Growing
- Ultraviolet-monitoring Wearables
- Opportunity to develop additional wearables with UV monitoring capabilities for various outdoor activities.
- Cross-platform Wearable Devices
- Opportunity to develop more wearable devices that are compatible with multiple operating systems.
- Multi-function Fitness Trackers
- Opportunity to create more fitness devices that have a variety of features beyond step and calorie tracking.
Industries Being Reshaped
- Fitness Technology
- This industry can benefit from creating more multi-functional and cross-platform fitness trackers.
- Outdoor Recreation
- This industry can benefit from developing more UV-monitoring wearables for various outdoor activities.
- Wearable Technology
- This industry can benefit from developing more cross-platform wearable devices with a variety of functions beyond simple fitness tracking.
