Microsoft released the very first update for its Band fitness bracelet. The device got improved cycling programs, sleep and calorie tracking, virtual keyboard, MapMyFitness integration, and an SDK that will allow third party developers to use data the Band collects over time.

Cyclers will be glad to know that Microsoft has covered their favorite exercise activity with support for both indoor and outdoor cycling. After the update, users will notice a new dedicated tile on the Band’s interface for cycling, with the device using the heart rate monitor in a slightly different way to be sensitive to the movements of cyclists. For instance, the Band will sense elevation changes, ride duration and distance, as well as GPS location, and report back all the information to Microsoft’s Health app (not to be confused with Apple Health).

Another new feature is the Band’s ability to include calorie and sleep measurements into the mix, tracking users’ average bedtimes and average waking times.

The Band now integrates with the MapMyFitness app and Microsoft’s own HealthVault platform.Moreover, the device got a virtual keyboard of its own, which the Redmond giant says is intelligent enough to know what you want to type. While we’ve seen some really smart virtual keyboards in our days, we can’t help but wonder who in the world would want to type anything on the Band’s petite display.

In addition, the wearable now integrates with the MapMyFitness app and Microsoft’s own HealthVault platform. This in turn allows users to quickly share the data gathered with either platform, and combine it with other data collected by other devices or apps on a unified dashboard. With HealthVault, there’s an option to include doctor to the mix, presuming he/she also relies on Microsoft’s health solutions.

Finally, an SDK has been released for third-parties looking to develop apps that tune into the Band’s sensors. Said SDK is still in the Preview phase, but should provide enough tools and information for companies and individuals looking to integrate with the Band.

[Via: VentureBeat]