Microsoft launches its second generation wearable device

Technology major Microsoft on Tuesday launched its new wearable device, Microsoft Band 2, at a price of $249 and to be available by the end of the month.

The band, which supports all platforms including Android and iOS, will come with the VO2 Max measuring technology and a barometer to map elevation for users.

VO2 max is a measure of the maximum volume of oxygen that an athlete can use. It is measured in millilitres per kilogramme of body weight per minute.

The Band 2, which also comes with a heart rate monitor, comes with Gorilla Glass protection. The curved organic LED (OLED) display of the device is also scratch resistant.

"The band can track sleep, suggest rest before workouts and train you on Golf and certain other activities," said Microsoft Band and Health division's senior communication manager Lindesey Matese.

Microsoft has also partnered with several other partners to support more extended usage on the device including Uber, fitness and nutrition apps.

"The band is for people who want to live a healthier life and achieve more. It gives user access to big data of their own set of exercises or every footstep they have taken," said Matese.