14 DAY TRIAL // This isn't the first time when we're hearing that Microsoft is developing its own smartwatch, but it appears that we're getting closer to an official launch that could finally help the Redmond-based software giant step into the wearables market.
A report published by CNN today reveals that Microsoft recently filed for a smartwatch patent at the US Patent Office, with the official documents revealing a device whose design would allow the company to compete with companies such as Google, Samsung, and Apple.
Surprisingly, the application was filed in October 2012, but was published only this week, which means that Microsoft might already be in an advanced development stage of the new device.
Details are scarce for the time being, but according to the abstract section of the patent, the smartwatch will be detachable from the wristband and come with support for a charging dock. It could serve as a fitness tracking device, while also comprising options that would turn it into a music player, a phone and a messaging device, the source points out.
Here are all details mentioned in the abstract section of the patent:
“A personal information system is provided. The system may include a portable information device having a housing including a top surface defined at least partially by a display, a bottom surface configured with a central region in which an optical sensor, electrical connector, and data connector are positioned, the housing enclosing an internal volume in which a processor is provided, the top surface and bottom surface being coupled by a perimeter side edge extending there between, and a mounting structure formed at least partially around the perimeter side edge of the housing.
“The system may further include a frame, which may be connected to a band, the frame surrounding a void and configured to receive the mounting structure, the frame and mounting structure being releasably securable via a tongue and groove connection. The system may further comprise a dock to which the information device may be connected. “
At this point, since only a few details are available, nobody can tell for sure whether the smartwatch would run Windows or not, but if we are to take Microsoft's “Windows everywhere” campaign into account, expect the device to be powered by a stripped down version of the operating system specifically optimized for such a project.
More details should be provided in the coming months, as Microsoft doesn't afford to be late to the party of wearables, so the company could launch the smartwatch sometime this year or in early 2015.