Microsoft's Surface team working on a smartwatch

Duke_Nukem · July 16, 2013, 1:10am

Microsoft’s prototype smartwatch testing has moved over to its Surface team. Sources familiar with Microsoft’s Surface plans have revealed to The Verge that the company is now prototyping devices directly under the Surface team as the firm moves its wrist-worn device closer to reality. Previously, Microsoft had been testing variations of a smartwatch designed and prototyped by the Xbox accessories team, with the original plan of a “Joule” heart rate monitor.

The news follows prototype testing of devices with a Surface connector, and reports that Microsoft is requesting 1.5-inch displays from component manufacturers. AmongTech recently reported that smartwatch prototypes include a variety of removable wrist bands in blue, red, yellow, black, white, and grey colors. We’re told that this is accurate, and that Microsoft’s smartwatch plans center around the idea of removable bands. AmongTech also claims that prototypes are housed in Oxynitride Aluminum, an expensive “translucent aluminum” that is said to be three times harder than glass.

I’ve rarely ever worn a watch as often it seems like a duplication of devices, but a heart monitor, that interests me. Toss in that time really doesn’t matter to me and I have a hard time coming up with a reason to wear a watch. I did on occasion wear the SPOT watches but since then I’ve haven’t worn a watch at all. That said it does appear that watches are still of interest to people so hell ya this could be good.

Dave_McLaughlin · July 16, 2013, 2:00am

I’m all for a smartwatch but battery life has to be up there with at least 3-4 days min.

My current watch did one time give me that but now it’s back to 6 bloody hours!

It’s great to see notifications on the watch or certain information at a glance without reaching into your pocket or taking it out of it’s holder etc. Great for in meetings

mhectorgato · July 16, 2013, 9:17am

For me, this is what my initial interest would be - for example when riding my bike I don’t have my phone in sight - in my backpack if I am commuting or it’s in my under-saddle bag.

Heart-rate monitor would also be a plus.