With the gaming and wearable sectors both in a state of growth, latest reports have suggested Microsoft is looking to combine the two with an Xbox-syncing smart band.
With the Redmond-based giant having recently introduced its first entrant to the rapidly expanding wearables space – the Microsoft Band – industry sources have claimed the company will further forge its space in the market moving into 2015.
Looking to transfer real-world fitness metrics into the virtual world, the as yet unconfirmed device will reportedly allow users to transfer health metrics – including heart rates, distance walked and calorie burn.
“The wearable market is always growing and we can expect to see Microsoft rolling out a spate of devices next year in this space,” Joe Officer, head of Xbox One component supplier Exertis said recently.
Speaking with PCR he added: “These will be linked to the Xbox One which has loads of health and fitness apps already in it.
“Add that to real time heart rate monitors, health bands, scales and video sensors and users will have day-in, day-out, real time monitoring of themselves.”
While the Xbox One has struggled to maintain pace with sales of Sony’s rival console, the PS4, since the two launched last November, Xbox One Phil Spencer recently suggested the company was looking at new ways to increase engagement with the console.
Although failing to mention a fitness-themed wearable by name, the company head hinted new accessories – including a VR proposition – could be inbound for the Xbox platform.
“New technologies invite us to explore new gaming worlds,” he said.
“I believe that Kinect, voice and virtual reality are those key new elements.
“We’re also working on an investment of our own, but it’s not at a stage in which we can talk about it yet.”
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