Microsoft Corp. is gearing up to launch its smartwatch in a matter of weeks, according to a recent Forbes report. Not only will the device connect to your smartphone – Microsoft’s own Windows phones, Google Inc.’s Android phones and Apple Inc.’s iPhone, but it will act as a fitness tracker. The smartwatch will measure users’ heart rates throughout the day and record calories burned.

It’s reported that Microsoft’s smartwatch has one key feature that puts it ahead of other wearables already on the market in that it will have a two-day battery life. This is double the battery life of similar, always-on products to continuously monitor heart rates. While smart watches seem the popular gadget to launch right now, especially after the unveiling of the Apple Watch, one of the biggest concerns consumers have is the requirement of daily charging. Market rivals to Microsoft’s upcoming smartwatch, including Samsung Electronics’ Gear 2 and Motorola Mobility’s Moto 360, have to be charged at least daily. So an extended battery life may well raze consumer interest. Another bonus is that it is compatible with multiple operating systems, unlike the Apple Watch which requires the iPhone for pairing.
Reports the tech giant was about to enter the very active smart watch market have been circling since 2013 when it was reported that Microsoft had been shopping around Asian suppliers for components for a touch screen wearable device. Microsoft has been quiet on the matter since speculation on their new wearable started after the company filed patent for a ‘wearable personal information system’ in May 2012 – although this information wasn’t released by the US Patent Office until recently. According to more speculation, Microsoft’s smartwatch will resemble the Samsung Gear Fit, although when quizzed about the watch earlier this year a spokesperson for Microsoft would only comment, “We have nothing to share.”