Microsoft's Upcoming Wearable Might Not Be a Smartwatch

Microsoft is reportedly working on a wrist-mounted wearable that works with your smartphone, and it might not be a smartwatch.

Tech site WinSuperSite reports that Microsoft’s upcoming device is more akin to a fitness tracker like Fitbit and Samsung Gear Fit, citing unnamed Microsoft insiders.

The report mentioned that the Microsoft device will carry all the usual fitness sensors for heart rate, calories burned and steps taken, and matches earlier reports that it could have up to 11 sensors.

If the rumors are true, its major selling point will be its universal compatibility; the device will reportedly be usable with any major smartphone (not just Windows phones, but Android and iOS, too). It's likely that Microsoft's fitness-focused apps such as Bing Health & Fitness and HealthVault will be available with the wearable.

While Apple may launch a smartwatchthis year (rumors peg it as the "iWatch"), nothing has been confirmed so far. Google, on the other hand, showed off Android Wear watches and software last week at the I/O Developer Conference, and has already put some of the hardware up for preorder.

The report indicates that the Microsoft’s device will be available sometime in the fourth quarter of 2014.