A prototype version of Microsoft’s cancelled Xbox Watch has made an unscheduled appearance online.
A Twitter user posted images on Monday, showing off the firm’s purported plans to enter the smartwatch game.
The images show the user interface, which includes a workout mode, while also showcasing built-in GPS and a heart rate sensor.
The UI isn’t too dissimilar to the Microsoft Band, which actually made it to market, but was relatively short-lived.
Related: Xbox One games 2018
It’s also reminiscent of a very old Xbox UI, which suggests the prototype is probably quite old.
Although it was only a prototype version of the device, @Hikari_Cayl (via Windows Central) complained about the “terrible” resolution. We’ll never know if this is something Microsoft planned to improve upon before bringing the device to market.
The Xbox Watch – Pin Diagram
Yes we successfully booted up an Xbox Watch. Video is processing now. pic.twitter.com/qwBtOOf5fs— Hikari Calyx (@Hikari_Calyx) January 22, 2018
Try to feel terrible resolution of Xbox Watch… If you find the Xbox Watch can't be recharged, you can disassemble the screen with an utility knife or a razor, then hit the positive pole on the battery with piezoelectric ceramic igniter from a lighter. pic.twitter.com/TcQwMcvJEQ
— Hikari Calyx (@Hikari_Calyx) January 22, 2018
More details my be revealed when a forthcoming video is posted, but there’s no sign of any gaming-specific features at the current time.
Perhaps Microsoft had planned to use it alongside fitness apps for the Xbox console itself? There was a time when the discontinued Kinect sensor allowed enabled people to workout at home while precise movements were tracked.
Perhaps wisely, given this prototype, Microsoft decided against pursuing a smartwatch release.
The company clearly has no plans in the wearable market at present, despite a shift in strategy towards selling its own hardware.
Would you like to have seen an Xbox smartwatch? Or was Microsoft correct to ditch this one. Drop us a line @TrustedReviews on Twitter.