14 DAY TRIAL // Microsoft Band 2 is already available for pre-order, so the software giant is hard at work to clear out inventories of the first generation in order to end sales and concentrate fully on the new model.
The first version of the Band is now available at Microsoft's US store for only $99, regardless of the version you choose. Right now, however, the large version is out of stock, and it's not clear whether the software giant plans to make more units available or if that's about it for the first-generation Band.
The original price of the device was $199.99, so it's pretty clear that Microsoft's doing its best not only to sell as many units as possible but also to pave the way for the second-generation model, which is already up for grabs at Microsoft's Store.
Microsoft Band 2
The Band 2 is also available in three different sizes and costs $249.99, with shipments scheduled to begin on October 30 in the United States for customers who order it before this date.
In terms of changes, this new Band comes with a total of 11 sensors, as compared to 10 on its predecessor. The biggest difference is the barometer, which comes in very handy when hiking, as it provides you with a more in-depth look at elevation changes.
Just like the older model, the Band 2 can work with any Windows Phone, Android, and iOS device thanks to its cross-platform Bluetooth support, but in case you want to take full advantage of its features and sensors, you need a device running Microsoft's mobile platform.
Windows Phone users, for instance, can also launch Cortana from their Bands, a feature that's not available right now on iPhones and Android devices. Other than that, you get pretty much all features on your phone, no matter the platform.
