Speculation continues to mount that Microsoft will launch a fitness tracking wristband, rather than a smartwatch before the year is out.
Corroborating reports from last weekend, the well-connected Paul Thurrott of the Winsupersite has 'confirmed' Redmond will serve up a Samsung Gear Fit-style device, with a similar price point, in Q4.
Thurrott suggested the difference will merely be in the form factor, with notifications from smartphones and live date from the device appearing on a longer, slimmer display rather than a more traditional watch face.
The blogger goes along rumours claiming the device will include a multitude of health-oriented sensors, tracking variables like steps, heart-rate and the like.
Equal opportunities
Thurrott's sources also back up perhaps the most significant rumour; that Microsoft's offering will be compatible with Windows Phone, Android and iOS.
This inclusive approach would differ from Google's Android Wear platform, which only runs on a around a quarter of Android devices - those with Android 4.3 and above.
It's also likely to differentiate from the forthcoming Apple iWatch or iBand tracker, which is only expected to pair with iOS devices.
Would a platform agnostic Microsoft smartwatch tempt you away from your smartphone OS loyalties? Let us know your thoughts in the comments section below
- Check out our review of the Microsoft Band 2
