New Microsoft Band device won’t debut this year and maybe never will

Amid reports that Android Wear partners aren’t releasing any new hardware this year, it now looks like Microsoft won’t update its line of Band fitness devices in 2016 either.

According to ZDNet, the Microsoft Band 2 might even be the last Band ever released, though the Microsoft Health service backing the fitness device will continue to be supported. Microsoft even released a statement saying it will continue to invest and innovate in the Microsoft Health, and it admitted plans to continue selling Microsoft Band 2 but stopped short of confirming whether a Band 3 is coming.

Microsoft apparently has no plans to release a new Band this calendar year, and it recently dissolved the team that was working on getting Band to run Windows 10. Plus, Microsoft has been grappling with Band 2 quality issues (some skins have been splitting) and ended up giving it a $75 price cut. Microsoft could always release a Band 3 running firmware in the future, though ZDNet has its doubts.

Keep ind mind CNET has reported that LG, Lenovo, and Huawei aren’t going to release new Android Wear smartwatches in 2017, and it suggested Android Wear partners are reluctant to release new hardware due to a lack of consumer interest and the inability to attract the average consumer. For instance, Samsung told CNET most smartwatch consumers are male early adopters.

Microsoft launched the Band 2 on 6 October. It includes a barometer sensor, onboard GPS, heart-rate monitoring, tracking for running, biking, golfing, cycling, etc, and the ability to work with Windows Phone, Android, and iPhone.