Apple, Samsung to be Joined by Microsoft for the SmartWatch Device

After cancelling SPOT (Smart Personal Object Technology) project last year, which Microsoft fielded in 2004 and stopped production in 2008, the company is now probably working on a touch-enabled Smartwatch, as reported by The Wall Street Journal.

According to WSJ reports, Microsoft has asked its suppliers in Asia to ship parts for the said device and if reports are to be believed, Microsoft will join the likes of Apple, Samsung and Google in treading into wearable electronics market.

However, the company has not spoken anything in this regard. Way back in 2004, the company has developed a product called SPOT, which used FM radio signals to send messages from windows messenger in addition to providing other services like news headings, stock data and weather information. These services were available by means of a paid subscription service. Since this project was cancelled last year, the company might plan on generating something more interesting and worthwhile for its consumers.

Moreover, another piece of information that makes us think that the rumours about Microsoft making a Smartwatch is actually true is because last month Microsoft researcher Bill Buxton spoke highly about the 37year history of Smartwatches, thereby indicating a return to the market.

Though the Smartwatch market hardly exists, it is already feeling crowded with many companies venturing into the field.

Despite the fact that the details are almost negligible, unnamed supplier executives have told the Journal that Microsoft has asked for 1.5-inch touchscreens for this purpose from its suppliers. However, it is not yet clear whether Microsoft will choose to move ahead with the project. Nevertheless, there is a gleam of hope for all the lovers of SPOT watches.

The market is buzz with news about a certain boom in wearable, computerized devices with more power and equipped with smaller sizes of sensors. The sensors of these devices would be able to detect body temperature, geographic location, as well as voice commands of users along with offering other services.

According to Research firm, Gartner by 2016, the market for wearable smart electronic devices is expected to go up to $10 billion industry