Microsoft might release a smartwatch

Microsoft applied for a patent for a smartwatch design, according to the US Patent Office, meaning that the software company wants to keep its game up with technology and not fall behind Samsung, Apple or Google.

The tech wristwatch would serve as a fitness tracker, a music player, a phone and a messaging device. It will also have a detachable screen which connects to a charging dock.

Microsoft’s device will have to compete with the 2013-released Galaxy Gear smartwatch by Samsung and Google’s Moto 360 smartwatch which will be on the market starting with this summer. Apple is also rumored to come up with its own high tech watch soon.

Since Microsoft refused to comment its plans, it remains unclear when the watch will come out or what its features will be like.

The tech giant had made another attempt at releasing a similar watch back in 2004, but the project was killed in 2008 due to low public response.