It may be the weekend, but it doesn't mean leaks can't happen. Windows Central has been reporting for months now that the Microsoft Band 2 is due this fall with an announcement during the October 6 event. Today, the site MicrosoftInsider.es reportedly got their hands on some renders of the device codenamed 'Envoy'.
The images – if accurate – reveal what we reported back in July including a new curved display and availability in a wider swath of markets (the current Surface ones). Windows Central has attempted to verify the images and most of our sources believe the images to be legitimate.
The Band 2 has a new curved display addressing a big complaint from users of the first-generation device. Additionally, the battery appears to be now on the underside of the color display instead of the sides. Microsoft Insider also reports that the new device can measure the "height of an exercise" routine in addition to all the other sensors available in the previous version (plus your Starbucks card, natch). The Band 2 now features a slight metallic accent on the sides giving a contrasting appearance.
Band 2 Sensors (expected)
- Optical heart rate monitor
- Accelerometer/Gyrometer
- GPS
- Microphone
- Ambient Light Sensor
- Galvanic Skin Response (GSR) sensors
- UV sensor
The Band 2 evidently maintains the 2 button setup of the Band 1 as well.
Overall the Band 2 is looking to be a solid continuation of the original health and fitness tracker. The phone companion is expected to continue to also work with iOS, Android and Windows Phone devices. We have heard from our sources that Windows 10 for IoT would power the Band 2, but so far we lack further confirmation on that info.
- What to expect from Microsoft's Windows 10 devices event in NYC
- Microsoft Band 2 - All you need to know
All eyes will be on Microsoft come October 6.
Source: MicrosoftInsider.es; Thanks, Anidexlu, for the tip!
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