According to the Wall Street Journal, Microsoft is exploring designs for a «touch-enabled watch device.» Citing executives at suppliers, the report notes the company has yet to decide whether to start production on a wearable computing device. Microsoft reportedly asked suppliers in Asia to ship components for a potential device earlier this year. Still, it’s unclear if Microsoft will actually go ahead with the product.
The tile-based design of Windows Phone and Windows 8 seems tailor-made for a smart watch. Users could set up a Live Tile or two that would show weather, time or other basic information. More tiles could fill the screen as notifications roll in.
Several tech giants have been linked to the development of wearable computers, one of this year’s hot tech topics. Companies reported to be exploring a jump into the market include Apple, Google and Samsung.Sony already has a wearable device available now, the Sony SmartWatch. The device connects to an Android smartphone and lets users check messages or screen phone calls.
Keep in mind that it’s still early days for the smart-watch market, and the major tech players aren’t exactly rushing to get products out. Microsoft could bring some killer features and concepts to the smart-watch craze, but it also has some work to do.
