Microsoft smartwatch to work with Android & iPhone devices

Microsoft's forthcoming smartwatch will sync with Android, iOS and Windows Phone devices as the firm fights to establish its presence in the market.

The unnamed device is said to have a full-touch colour screen much like Samsung's Galaxy Gear Fit. However, the display is placed on the inside of the wrist to make it easier to use and provide privacy, sources have told Forbes.

The smartwatch is expected to monitor metrics like heart rate and have a battery life of two days, making it similar to Samsung's Gear range.

Engineers from the Kinect division have been working together with data scientists to optimise the sensors and create a comprehensive software platform.

With the smartwatch market yet to take off, Microsoft's decision to make its device cross-platform could prove crucial when it comes to establishing a user base. Windows Phone has less than 4 per cent of worldwide market share whereas Android and iPhone devices are expected to account for 95 per cent of the market.

Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella has been pushing the cross platform strategy in an attempt to reinvigorate the tech giant.

There is no word on the release date, but Microsoft could launch its smartwatch in the summer to get a jump on arch-rival Apple, who is widely tipped to reveal the iWatch later this year.