Microsoft Band is a cross platform fitness wearable

Microsoft has taken the wraps off its anticipated wearable called Microsoft Band. The fitness tracker will work with competing Android and iOS as well as Windows Phone devices and features the ability to track  steps,your heartbeat, calories burned and sleep quality, you know, standard, fitness tracker stuff. it will also display notifications from your phone and can take notes and set reminders with Cortana. Some apps, like Starbucks, will allow added functionality, like the ability to generate barcodes to pay for coffee.

Micrsoft band, which features 10 sensors,  will be available to order only in the US for $199 and in limited quantities starting tomorrow. No news of Canadian availabilty or pricing yet. 

Source: Engadget

Fitbit now supports Windows Phone platform

Been looking for a fitness tracker that works with your Windows Phone device? Well, now you can use Fitbit with the platform. Fitbit for Windows Phone lets you pair with your device via Bluetooth. It also offers the array of step and sleep tracking capabilities to help you get into shape. The app is available for free download for devices running on Windows Phone 8.1 with the Lumia Cyan update.

Source: Lifehacker Australia

Fitbit Force fitness tracker recalled for skin irritation issues

Fitbit is recalling its flagship fitness tracker, the Fitbit Force, because it is causing some users to get skin rashes, which is definitely an issue for a device that's designed to be worn all day and even at night. Existing Fitbit Force units are being recalled and refunds are being issued. Early build issues seem to be a recurring problem for these wearable devices, remember the Jawbone Up was recalled for numerous glitches last year. Perhaps some thorough testing of these devices is required before rushing out to market with them, eh Fitbit? Hit jump for Fitbit's full statement on the matter.

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iPhone 5s changes into a fitness tracker with Fitbit iOS update

If you don’t have your Fitbit device on you, the new update to the iOS application will remedy that situation. Fitbit has introduced a MobileTrack to turn your iPhone 5s and the new iPads into a “basic” activity tracker. It makes use of Apple’s M7 chip to monitor your movement while not sacrificing too much of your battery’s life.