Microsoft’s Wearable Device Band Gets Feature Upgrades

Microsoft’s compelling wearable smart device, Band, recently got an upgrade with new features that make the device more comparable with the basic functionality of more well-known smartwatch devices like the Apple Watch.

The biggest change has been the addition of music control and activity reminders, positioning the wearable as a worthwhile consideration for Bluetooth app developers looking to forge mobile apps with smartwatch and wearable connections. Alongside other Band 2 updates like built-in GPS and call/text notifications, the Microsoft Band has easily surpassed fears from New York City mobile app developers that the device would languish in the in-between zone where fitness-specific devices oftentimes get stuck. Is it a watch? Is it a Fitbit? The recent upgrades signal that Microsoft doesn’t intend to get left behind in the fitness wearable market — which means potential wins for Bluetooth app developers.

Company statements about the Band upgrade highlight the use of music controls, allowing users to adjust volume, skip tracks, and more or less all the other basic features a music app on your iPhone or Android device allows.

Reminders have also entered the picture, allowing fitness-oriented users to keep a schedule easily — even if it’s as simple as just remembering to get up and stretch in the office once in a while.

With fitness-oriented wearables like Band expanding to include so many of the basic features of more expensive smartwatch devices like the Apple Watch, Bluetooth app developers have a lot to be excited about when it comes to keeping users active with notifications and real-time interactions. It’s never been easier for an app to reach out of a user’s pocket and remind them to stay engaged. App developers who can balance the line between being persistent and being helpful will find plenty of success with multi-platform apps in coming years as wearables continue to expand in the mobile marketplace.