A new update is rolling out for the Sony SmartBand 2.

 Sony Mobile has updated the companion app for the SmartBand 2 SWR12 fitness tracker, which brings numerous improvements. The newest version (build 2.1.17) adds a new feature called “Get moving” which gently encourages you to get off your arse if you’ve been sitting idle for too long. 

Alongside added functionality to the app, Sony is also wisely allowing third-party apps to tap into the SmartBand’s heart sensor.

 Sony now also allows you to use the heart-rate sensor with third-party apps, which is great to see. Other changes include automatically entering STAMINA mode when the battery is low and a lower vibration setting for notifications. 

This is a good move by Sony which can help unlock the unit’s functionality and usefulness. While stock apps like the one provided for Sony are always nice, it’s sometimes more niche apps that help define a device for users and by allowing other developers to use the sensors of the SmartBand 2, Sony makes their own hardware (where they’re making money from) far more attractive to consumers with little work needing to be done on their end. The update is now live on Google Play.

Discuss:

Do you own a Sony SmartBand?

[Via XperiaBlog]