Microsoft may launch smartwatch to take on Apple and Google

Microsoft is set to jump onboard the wearable technology bandwagon, amid buzz that the software giant working is on its own smartwatch.

According to The Wall Street Journal, Microsoft has asked suppliers in Asia to provide components for a “potential watch-style device”. Although details are very thin on the ground at this point, such a device could be powered by its Windows Phone operating system.

One unnamed executive at a supplier claims to have already met with Microsoft's R&D team at the company’s headquarters in Redmond. However, whether that has resulted in some sort of deal remains as-yet undetermined.

Microsoft’s move to join the smartwatch party comes as Apple is said have put a 100-strong team in charge of developing the so-called iWatch, with Samsung and Google also reportedly hard at work on efforts of their own.

However, right now it seems unlikely that any of these devices will actually be able to make or take phone calls, a la Dick Tracy’s watch phone. They are more likely to be accessories that pair up with owners’ existing smartphones and offer basic features such as the ability to read messages, notifications and social media updates.

Do you want Microsoft to produce a Windows Phone-powered smartwatch? Tell us why in the comments section below.

Via:

The Wall Street Journal