Microsoft Band 2 preorders have started in Australia on Microsoft Store

The Microsoft Band 2 was announced in October 2015 to replace the first generation Microsoft fitness Band. The second generation model is now available on preorders in Australia through the Microsoft Store.

According to the official Windows blog, the online Microsoft Store in Australia has started receiving preorders for the Microsoft Band 2 smartband. Until now, the fitness band is exclusively available at the retail outlet in Sydney.

The online store in Australia did not sell the Band 2 smartband till now, citing limited stock issues. However, it is now finally available for preorders through the official online store. Customers can preorder the fitness band for AU$379.

The shipment of the preordered units will start on Jan. 21. From the same date, the second generation Microsoft Band will be also available through other retailers such as JB Hi-Fi, Rebel Sport and Harvey Norman, Windows Central reported.

Buyers can avail of the smartband in three strap sizes such as small, medium and large. The Microsoft Band 2 is compatible with multiple OS platforms like Windows 10 Mobile, Windows Phone 8.1, Android and iOS.

It features a 1.26 x 0.50 inches AMOLED display that supports a resolution of 320 x 128 pixels. The battery of the device takes only 1.5 hours to charge completely and it can last for 48 hours with normal use.

The Microsoft Band 2 is a fitness tracking gadget that is equipped with numerous sensors such as optical heart rate monitor, three-axis accelerometer, ultraviolet sensor, galvanic skin response sensor, skin temperature sensor, barometer, ambient light sensor, GPS, gyrometer, capacitive sensor and microphone.

All the health data gathered by the Microsoft Band 2 can be viewed on a synced smartphone through the Microsoft Health mobile app. The Band 2 can show notifications for new email, new text messages and missed calls.

The Band can be also used to control music while exercising. With the support for downloading Guided Workouts, users can exercise with guided instructions from well-known fitness experts.