Why You Can Trust CNET Microsoft unveils redesigned Band 2 fitness tracker, coming Oct. 30 for $249 (hands-on)
Microsoft's new fitness tracker includes more sensors and a curved screen for a more ergonomic fit.
Microsoft's new band, called "Microsoft Band," looks a lot like the last band. But, refined. It's still all black and wraps around the wrist with a clasp, but looks like it could be a little less bulky. And it has a curved display, unlike the flat one last year.
Its main new features are a barometer for elevation and stair-climbing readings, and a new curved Gorilla Glass 3-covered display that Microsoft says works better with sweaty fingers. This should also address the scratching problems we experienced with the original Band. I'll be sure to swipe all over this with wet hands someday in the future, but for now I'll take their word for it.
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The battery has moved underneath along the clip-on clasp, instead of hugging the band's sides like the old model did. That makes the new band's rubbery strap feel smoother, more flexible, and less cuff-like. The middle-sized model (there are three sizes) fit my larger wrists perfectly.
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Carryovers from last year's model include the optical heart-rate sensor on the strap, GPS for tracking pace, distance and speed when running or cycling, a UV sensor to measure exposure to dangerous UV rays, and an accelerometer and gyroscope for tracking steps and sleep.
Microsoft remains committed to cross-platform functionality. As was the case with the original model, the new Band will support iOS, Android and Windows Phone devices. It will wirelessly sync with the Microsoft Health app, where you can view detailed information on sleep, workouts and activity data. The app will also sync with many popular third-party apps, such as MyFitnessPal, Strava, LoseIt, MapMyRun and more.
Battery life looks to be the same as last year. The first-gen Band would only last about 48 hours on single charge, but that number dropped dramatically when using the GPS. We had to charge our band nightly. Other fitness trackers last longer on average.
Microsoft's leaning on updated software and cloud services to really evolve the Band. Owners of last year's model, that's good news...unless you didn't like the fit.
The Microsoft Band 2 is available now for preorder and will arrive in US stores on October 30 and in the UK on November 19. The tracker will cost $249 or £200, a $50 or £30 increase from the original. Australian pricing and availability wasn't announced, but the UK price converts to about AU$425. The original was never released in Australia.
See all of today's Microsoft news here.
Editors' note: This story was originally published at 9:45 a.m. PT and has been updated to add hands-on video.