Microsoft Band series is dead: No Band 3 this year

Microsoft has pulled the plug on its fitness tracking line of devices.

The Redmond-based software titan has confirmed that there will be no new Band releasing this year, making Band 2 the last of its line. But those who are planning to pick up the last of the Band 2 devices, you are out of luck.

Microsoft confirmed that it sold out the existing Band 2 trackers and the company's tone doesn't seem promising to stock up the inventory again. While the move isn't entirely surprising as it was reported last month that Microsoft would take such a step sooner than later, existing Band owners needn't worry.

"We have sold through our existing Band 2 inventory and have no plans to release another Band device this year. We remain committed to supporting our Microsoft Band 2 customers through Microsoft Stores and our customer support channels and will continue to invest in the Microsoft Health platform, which is open to all hardware and apps partners across Windows, iOS, and Android devices," a company spokesperson told ZDNet in a statement.

Microsoft was expected to launch its all-new Band 3 in an upcoming event. The news of the dead Band lineup first came to light after ZDNet's Mary Jo Foley reported that all references to the Band devices were taken down from the company's online stores on Monday. The report also revealed the Band software development kit (SDK) was removed.

Even with the departure of Band hardware, Microsoft is not planning to kill its health service, which will likely to operate independently. As per the company, the company is clear about investing in the Microsoft Health platform, which can be used by other hardware developers and app partners across all platforms. Don't be surprised if a new fitness tracker with Microsoft's Health platform arrives in the future.

Microsoft may have dropped out of the fitness hardware race, but there are plenty options customers can explore from brands like Fitbit, Xiaomi, Jawbone, Garmin and Misfit.