New Explore tile, universal Health app, and more

May 17, 2016 16:31 GMT  ·  By

Microsoft has just announced a major update for the Band 2 smart wristband, including a universal app version of the Health app, plus a new Explore tile that’s just perfect for hiking.

Specifically, the new Explore tile available on the device uses the built-in GPS module to track the route and show it on the display, allowing you to easily drop points of interest as you advance towards the destination.

Once you complete the route, you can synchronize the Band with your PC or smartphone and get all details at a glance, including points of elevation and a map to get an in-depth look at your hike.

Furthermore, if you’re a fan of hiking, the Band 2 also improves the UV monitor, so it’s now able to provide you with notifications when the UV exposure is too high. The Band recommends wearers to stay covered or apply SPF while in direct sunlight.

An auto-pause option is also offered, so it’s capable of detecting when you stop, so it doesn’t affect your stats. And last but not least, there are more smart alerts to remind you to hydrate and refuel, telling you at what time the sun sets and displaying weather alerts.

Health universal app launching this week

Microsoft says that the new Health universal app will land in the store later this week with support for Windows 10 PCs and tablets.

“Sync your Microsoft Band manually to your PC or Surface through a USB cable and manage tiles, personalize your band, update firmware, and more. The Live Tile will display your current step count and calorie burn,” Microsoft reveals.

The last feature included in this update concerns leaderboards, as the Band is now being used as a tool to convince you to exercise more. Starting with this update, the social leaderboards will display two additional profiles, one for the group corresponding to your age and showing average daily steps and cardio minutes, and another one for the top 25 performances of your group.

The update should show up in the Microsoft Health app, but keep in mind that the rollout takes place gradually, so you might have to wait a little bit longer to get it.