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14 Jun 2006
Microsoft has unveiled a new wristwatch using its Smart Personal Objects Technology (Spot).
The Abacus Smart Watch 2006 features double the storage capacity of previous models, promises faster download speeds and has a thinner bezel.
It uses the FM radio broadcasting network to transmit data to the watch, offering information such as weather, stock quotes and traffic news.
Microsoft unveiled its Spot technology in 2002 and the first watches started shipping in early 2004. But the first watches looked bulky and did poorly in the marketplace. The new device designed by Fossil, aims to counter those issues and costs $179.
It comes with a one-year subscription to the MSN Direct Smart Plan data service which goes at a regular rate of $39.95 per year. Integration with MSN Messenger and Outlook calendar synchronisation are available at an annual fee of $20.
Microsoft initially planned to charge $59 per year or $9.95 per month for the basic service. The company also promised to launch additional Spot devices.
In a keynote at the now defunct Comdex tradeshow in 2002, Microsoft chairman Bill Gates demonstrated a Spot alarm clock that would inform the owner of possible traffic delays and could adjust the wake up time accordingly.
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Do you agree?
SPOT
A rose by any other name is still a rose. However, in keeping with that statement a dog by any other name is still a dog & sSpot is just a dog. Bill, this dog is really embarrassing. It was embarrassing the first time but now it's just inane. Spot isn't the tool, you are!
Posted by: Rex Alfie Lee 14 Jun 2006