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A closer look at Basis' new, more comfortable fitness band (hands-on)
Basis' new fitness band, dubbed the Carbon Steel Edition, is much more comfortable than the original. And that's not just me parroting the company's marketing materials: I've been testing the original B1 band for weeks now, so I should know better than anyone how much better this new one is. Though the press materials would make it seem like this is basically the old B1 with a new wristband, it's now covered in chrome accents (can you really call a faceplate an "accent"?). So, while the overall shape remains the same, and though the screen still has a touch-sensitive pins in each corner, it has a more premium look than it did before. It's no Pebble, to be sure, but it's nonetheless a step in the right direction. Even without that metal overcoat, though, this would have been a big improvement if only thanks to the wristband. In brief, it has a much softer finish than the rubbery plastic used in the B1. It rests more comfortably against the skin, and is stretchier too, allowing for a snugger fit. Even some retooled hinges allow the band to curl around your wrist a little more naturally. I can't overstate how important that is: right now, I barely even take advantage of the B1's sleep tracking capabilities because by the time bedtime rolls around, I've grown weary of having an uncomfortable band strapped to my wrist.
Basis intros 'Carbon Steel Edition' fitness band with improved design; old model drops to $179
By all accounts, the Basis B1 is one of the smartest fitness trackers on the market: It monitors sweat output, heat dissipation, blood flow and heart rate. And, as of a recent update, it can automatically detect when you've started walking or running. Still, smart doesn't mean much when the watch isn't comfortable to wear or -- worse -- when it resembles a Casio watch from the '80s. Accordingly, then, Basis just announced a new model, the Carbon Steel Edition, which comes in direct response to early user feedback, according to company reps. For starters, the new band has a sleeker look, complete with chrome accents. It also features a stretchable silicone strap that's more flexible and breathable. That's available today for $199, while the original B1 band is getting a price cut to $179. Meanwhile, even if you've already splurged on the B1, you'll be happy to know that Basis is rolling out some new sleep-tracking features for both the B1 and the new Carbon Steel Edition. In short, the two bands will be able to differentiate between REM, deep and light sleep. And, just like with the activity tracking, this will all happen automatically, so that you won't have to press a button to put the device into sleep-tracking mode. Also, you'll be able to see a "personal sleep score" inside the app itself, though you'll have to wait for an update first -- that should hit the Android, iOS and web applications later this month, on January 21st.
