Microsoft Band 2 update adds weight tracking, NBA sports feed, and GPS power saver
The Microsoft Band 2 is a formidable wearable and a new Microsoft Health update released for Android smartphones continues to make it a compelling choice.
After updating the Android Microsoft Health application, you will also find that there is an update for the Microsoft Band 2 itself. Make sure to check out my full review for all the details on the Band 2.
One aspect that makes the Band 2 a great choice for the masses is the cross platform functionality and the fantastic Microsoft Health Dashboard that is available to Band 2 owners via any web browser. Many smartwatches and activity trackers are limited to smartphone apps, but Microsoft offers much more thanks to the engaging Health website.
This new update provides the following:
- Share your workout: Create custom Guided Workouts in the web dashboard, and share them with friends.
- Track your weight: To help you maintain your current weight, or help you reach your weight goals. There is a place within the dashboard on your phone to record your weight manually.
- Web Tile Gallery: Sports scores, news headlines, and more. A variety of content you care about can be delivered straight to your band. NBA scores were added to the previous NFL options. Hopefully we'll see MLS added soon as well as MLB.
- GPS Power Saver: Enable GPS Power Saver in your Bike or Run tile to extend your battery life up to 4 hours.
- Activity reminders: Set activity reminders to alert you every 30, 60, or 90 minutes.
- Bug fixes
I lost 14 pounds in January and am actively working out, closely watching my eating habits, and tracking my weight so the ability to have my weight tracked in Microsoft Health is a major improvement for me. The Lose It service is a connected app option for Microsoft Health so I setup that connection and hope that my Fitbit Aria scale weight is automatically imported.
Microsoft continues to improve the Microsoft Band 2 experience and with all of the online data and insights, it's tough to move to a different device right now.
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