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.
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Editorial independence means being able to give an unbiased verdict about a product or company, with the avoidance of conflicts of interest. To ensure this is possible, every member of the editorial staff follows a clear code of conduct.
Professional conduct
We also expect our journalists to follow clear ethical standards in their work. Our staff members must strive for honesty and accuracy in everything they do. We follow the IPSO Editors’ code of practice to underpin these standards.