14 DAY TRIAL // Only a few hours ago, we showed you a Windows 10 smartwatch concept that not only looks incredibly good but also comes with a plethora of features that would make it one of the most advanced devices of its kind.
And although it was believed to be a concept, it turns out that the smartwatch was real and was developed by Microsoft together with Nokia, but the Redmond-based tech giant decided to cancel it at the very last minute.
A report published by The Verge claims that the smartwatch was called Microsoft Moonraker and was supposed to be the first step of the software giant into the wearable industry. Microsoft planned to launch it together with Lumia 930, its own 5-inch flagship that runs Windows Phone and that continues to be the high-end choice in its smartphone lineup, alongside the older Lumia 1520.
Canceled because of Band
Interestingly, Microsoft canceled this smartwatch to launch the Band, its smart wristband that comes with smartwatch capabilities and that works with Windows Phone, Android, and iOS devices.
Microsoft Band, however, comes with a design that’s not even close to being as appealing as the one you see in this concept, so Redmond’s choice is odd to say the least.
Microsoft Moonraker was equipped with sensors to detect hand gestures, so the display automatically turned on when you moved the arm to see the time. Features such as email, messaging, and phone call alerts were also available, as we could see in the photos.
Right now, there are very slight chances to see the Moonraker on the market because Microsoft is already working on the second-generation Band, which, according to sources, should launch later this year. The Band 2 will be very similar to its predecessor but could include more sensors and come with more capabilities. Its release could happen in the fall.