I'm definitely intrigued by this new Microsoft "Band" fitness tracker. I'm curious to see what other ST'ers think about it. It was just announced yesterday evening and is available to buy now for $199. So far it seems be generating positive reviews.
http://www.microsoft.com/Microsoft-Band/en-us
Unlike the Garmin 910XT which I currently own, the MS Band cannot be worn in a pool and does not support ANT+ peripherals, but it seems like it may actually be a really useful device for all other types of physical activities and it adds some "smartwatch" features too when paired with your phone (supports iOS, Android and Windows). But it has an HR monitor integrated into the band which is way more convenient than a separate chest strap. Plus it would start syncing data as soon as it pairs with your phone over bluetooth, which is much less hassle than the painfully slow ANT stick data syncing.
It has its own GPS that does not rely on being paired with a phone unlike some other smartwatches that have been released (or announced) and does not need a cellular data plan (yay).
There is a sweat sensor, skin temperature and accelerometers/gyrosopic sensors for detecting types of movement). It seems like it's got a good cross-section of features to make this compelling, even though it likely won't a full substitute for a triathlon sports watch like a Garmin.
http://www.microsoft.com/Microsoft-Band/en-us
Unlike the Garmin 910XT which I currently own, the MS Band cannot be worn in a pool and does not support ANT+ peripherals, but it seems like it may actually be a really useful device for all other types of physical activities and it adds some "smartwatch" features too when paired with your phone (supports iOS, Android and Windows). But it has an HR monitor integrated into the band which is way more convenient than a separate chest strap. Plus it would start syncing data as soon as it pairs with your phone over bluetooth, which is much less hassle than the painfully slow ANT stick data syncing.
It has its own GPS that does not rely on being paired with a phone unlike some other smartwatches that have been released (or announced) and does not need a cellular data plan (yay).
There is a sweat sensor, skin temperature and accelerometers/gyrosopic sensors for detecting types of movement). It seems like it's got a good cross-section of features to make this compelling, even though it likely won't a full substitute for a triathlon sports watch like a Garmin.