Microsoft to Launch New 'Smart' Watches This Fall

[BJ_M]

SEATTLE (Reuters) - Microsoft Corp. MSFT.O said on Thursday that it would launch "smart watches" this fall that can deliver news, weather information, sports scores and instant messages to people on the go.
The world's largest software maker, which is trying to move its software beyond the desktop into devices, said it would launch a new wireless service called "MSN Direct" that sends customized information to users via FM radio signals.

Redmond, Washington-based Microsoft said that its partners, U.S. watchmaker Fossil Inc. FOSL.O and sports watchmaker Suunto Corp., would start selling up to six watch models capable of receiving information from Microsoft's MSN Direct service.

Microsoft said it would offer MSN Direct separately from its MSN Internet access service for $9.95 per month, with the first month free or $59 for a full year of service.

"The wrist is a natural place to go for information," said Chris Schneider, program manager with Microsoft's Smart Personal Objects Technology, or SPOT.

Microsoft unveiled its SPOT initiative late last year to make everyday objects, such as alarm clocks, more useful by making them capable of receiving snippets of information. Such information would be presented in a "glanceable" format that wouldn't overload users -- or devices -- with information.

Schneider said that the watches would go on sale for between $150 and $300.

Subscribers with Microsoft Outlook will also be able to receive appointment reminders on the wrist watches, Microsoft said.

[leebo]

I don't even wear a watch anymore. I carry a cell phone.

[MOVIEGEEK]

Now you can get a BSOD on your watch,I assume it comes with "Ctrl,Alt,Delete" buttons.
I'm with leebo I'll stick with my cellphone.