SPOT Watches Ship

Smart Watches for MSN Direct, a new type of watch that can receive a wide variety of data, such as accurate time information, Outlook Calendar reminders, and news headlines, over a low-bandwidth radio network called DirectBand (available only in North America) are now available. Smart Watches are the first devices to incorporate Microsoft’s Smart Personal Objects Technology (SPOT) technology, which could help the company get its software into millions of everyday devices and stave off Java’s advances in the device market. MSN Direct could also create a new opportunity for content partners to reach large numbers of users.

MSN Direct Service

Smart Watches, currently available from Fossil and Suunto, carry suggested retail prices between US$129 and US$299. But to access data services, users must maintain a subscription to MSN Direct, which costs an additional US$9.95 per month (with the first month free) or US$59 per year. To use MSN Direct, users visit the MSN Direct Web site and enter personal information, such as their ZIP code, then sign up for data services tailored to their location and interests.