Microsoft has ended sales of its fitness wearable device, the wrist-worn Band.
The latest version, the Band 2, has been removed from Microsoft’s online store after ending production. The device is no longer available from Best Buy as well. Amazon is selling remaining inventory.
A Microsoft statement read, “We have sold through our existing Band 2 inventory and have no plans to release another Band device this year. We remain committed to supporting our Microsoft Band 2 customers through Microsoft Stores and our customer support channels and will continue to invest in the Microsoft Health platform, which is open to all hardware and apps partners across Windows, iOS, and Android devices.”
The first Microsoft Band was launched in late 2014 and positioned slightly upmarket of Fitbit. The Microsoft Band 2 was released in October last year.
The Band earned praise for its easy to read screen, its straight-forward controls, its range of sensors and software. Some users, however, complained it was uncomfortable to wear for long periods. The Band’s positioning was also seen as a challenge since it was priced higher than a simple fitness tracker like Fitbit but lacking many of the features of a smartwatch such as Apple Watch.
