Microsoft Smart Watch - "Band"

[blue_myriddn]

Details here:
http://www.microsoftstore.com/store...id=Homepage_Hero_1_MicrosoftBand_BlueK_102914

Looks pretty good to me and they have gotten the drop on Apple by making it for sale NOW rather than "coming in 2015". If you already have a windows phone, this seems like a much more natural extension. Harder sell for people unfamiliar with the Windows mobile system though.

I kinda want one...

 

[robr]

I'll be buying one to replace my fitbit that's falling apart.

 

[robr]

Went to the msft store today, turns out they are back ordered everywhere including online

 

[blue_myriddn]

I finally have access to Cortana by properly installing the DEV Preview mode (suck it Verizon!). It is nice, but without a truly hands free option it is very limited.

I found this announcement heartening:
http://www.neowin.net/news/hey-cort...ree-launching-for-its-windows-phone-assistant

I would like to see it implemented by a toggle on/off for Cortana hands free mode. Once that is in play, the band will make much more sense if it ends up being a connecting point to Cortana for better voice pickup. In other words, let say your phone is in your pocket or bag, which is quite common. Speaking to the phone is going to be muffled and muddled, but the voice should be clear to your band. Thus you can keep your phone in your pocket and still utilize it via Cortana voice commands. Similar story for having your phone suction cupped to your car window.

The final step of course is to tie Cortana to Windows 10 so that you can use the Band to control all of your platforms. Now *that* would be fully utilizing a smart watch.

- - - Updated - - -

Here is a solid review of it - I find myself agreeing with the conclusion that it looks like a version 1.0 and I look forward to future updates

 

[robr]

still waiting for a solid review of the fitness related features.

 

[blue_myriddn]

Anyone pick this up and have any thoughts about it?

 

[robr]

Wife said she'd get me one for Christmas but not holding my breath. Still out of stock everywhere.

 

[Moses]

My brother has one and loves it.