'Microsoft Band 2' rumors: is the fitness band set to have a make-over?
According to rumors, Microsoft's Band 2 device may come in newer, sleeker design based on the leaked images.
According to Tech Times, who cited the Spanish Microsoft Insider, The Microsoft Band 2 will come out as a sleeker device with a curved band for the user's comfort. In the report, the Band 2 is believed to have a new functionality which can determine the elevation of users going upstairs or a hill. The site also claimed that the Band 2 is known as "Envoy" at the company.
The fitness band might also come with an updated version of the Microsoft Health and other features that are in the original band including sensors for heart rate, skin temperature, and running routes to name a few. It will also have voice-sensing microphone that will help users dictate notes through it.
In the leaked photos of the Band 2, ARS Technica reports that the new band has similar design features not unlike Samsung's Gear Fit. The new device looks sleeker and curved with metal accents compared to its predecessor but it still kept the similar touch screen as the first one.
The original Band by Microsoft was released on October 2014 for $199 apiece. It is available in small, medium and large sizes. According to EWeek, Band works with the Microsoft Health app and can be used or linked with any smart phone OS (iOS or Android). The original device also works with apps such as MapMyFitness, RunKeeper, MyFitnessPal and UP.
The rumors of the functionality and design of Microsoft Band 2 might be revealed on Oct. 6 during the company's event in New York City. According to PC World, Microsoft is expected to launch new devices such as the Surface Pro 4 and Lumia phones.
During Microsoft's October event, it will be expected that Surface Pro 4 might be unveiled and if the rumors are true, the device will be "faster, thinner and lighter," according to the report by Silicon Angle. It will also reportedly include Microsoft's Windows Hello biometric sign-in. The new laptop might have a retail price of at least $600 depending on the model.
As for the Lumia phones, they have been dubbed as the "Cityman" (Lumia 950 XL) and the "Talkman" (Lumia 950) at the launch. The website states that the only noticeable difference would be the size as the Cityman is bigger with a 5.7-inch display while the Talkman only has a 5.2-inch screen. The two new smart phones will also be running on Snapdragon 810 and 808.