Fitbit introduces new stylish fitness tracker

Fitbit's new Alta fitness wristband ups the style factor with its sleek and slim design. The stainless steel tracker comes with interchangeable accessory bands so you can have it match your outfit. Tory Burch has even partnered with Fitbit again to introduce some Fitbit Alta-specific styles. The tracker comes with features such as Reminders to Move to help keep you active; SmartTrack to monitor your movements and exercise routine, weekly exercise goals, and even sleep activity. Like other trackers, it can send you call, text, and calendar notifications through on-screen messages on its OLED tap display and through vibration. It promises to work with over 200 Android, iOS, and Windows mobile devices and computers. The Fitbit Alta is now up for presale for $169.95 and will be available for retail starting March. 

Former HTC design head jumps ship to Fitbit

We previously reported that HTC's Associate Vice President of Industrial Design Jonah Becker was leaving the company. It would seem he has made a move to fitness device maker Fitbit. At Fitbit, he will serve in a newly created position as the company's vice president of industrial design. He will report directly to CEO James Park.  

His experience prior to his stint with HTC might help Fitbit create new looks for their devices. Becker came to HTC after the design firm One & Co., where he was a partner with another former HTC executive Scott Croyle, was bought by the Taiwanese smartphone maker. During his stint with One & Co., he has worked with companies like Adidas, Burton Snowboards, K2 Sports, and Nike. 

Source: CNET 

Microsoft Band is a cross platform fitness wearable

Microsoft has taken the wraps off its anticipated wearable called Microsoft Band. The fitness tracker will work with competing Android and iOS as well as Windows Phone devices and features the ability to track  steps,your heartbeat, calories burned and sleep quality, you know, standard, fitness tracker stuff. it will also display notifications from your phone and can take notes and set reminders with Cortana. Some apps, like Starbucks, will allow added functionality, like the ability to generate barcodes to pay for coffee.

Micrsoft band, which features 10 sensors,  will be available to order only in the US for $199 and in limited quantities starting tomorrow. No news of Canadian availabilty or pricing yet. 

Source: Engadget

Fitbit now supports Windows Phone platform

Been looking for a fitness tracker that works with your Windows Phone device? Well, now you can use Fitbit with the platform. Fitbit for Windows Phone lets you pair with your device via Bluetooth. It also offers the array of step and sleep tracking capabilities to help you get into shape. The app is available for free download for devices running on Windows Phone 8.1 with the Lumia Cyan update.

Source: Lifehacker Australia