It seems like Microsoft has abandoned plans to put Windows 10 on the Band and Band 2 fitness tracker. If true, the decision could throw the whole Band hardware range into doubt. ZDNet's Mary Jo Foley says the company will leave the Microsoft Band and Band 2 as it is. That could mean no new Band's will be released in the future.
Microsoft makes the software on the wearable look like Windows 10, but don't be fooled. The device actually runs a firmware to look like Windows 10. That's not a problem, but Microsoft has held aspirations to put the platform onto the fitness tracker.
However, Foley says the team responsible for the Windows 10 port has now been disbanded. In an official statement, Microsoft says:
“We continue to invest and innovate in the Microsoft Health platform, which is open to all hardware and apps partners across Windows, iOS, and Android devices. We also continue to sell Microsoft Band 2 and remain deeply committed to supporting our customers and exploring the wearables space.”
No More Band Hardware
What is interesting about the statement is that Microsoft does not mention new Band devices. The company says it is committed to Health and to supporting fitness apps across platforms. That is not very encouraging in terms of future hardware. Microsoft is likely to keep up support of its Health app.
According to ZDNet, Microsoft will definitely not release a new Band in 2016. It is actually looking like Microsoft is dropping the hardware. We should note this is certainly not official. However, there have been problems with the Band 2 in terms of how it holds together. Many users have complained of broken straps just months after buying the wearable.