Microsoft is reportedly weeks away from launching its own smartwatch with fitness tracking features, expected to challenge existing offerings from rivals Samsung and Apple.

The company founded by Bill Gates is said to be planning a quick launch which would see the device hit shops in time for the lucrative Christmas period, with wearable tech expected to top many a wish list this year. Microsoft will no doubt be hoping it fares better with smartwatches than it has in the smartphone sector, where Windows devices account for just 2.5 per cent of the market – well behind the dominant offerings from Samsung and Apple.

According to ‘sources close to the project’ cited by Forbes, the Microsoft smartwatch will track a wearer’s heart rate and activity levels among other fitness functions, as well boasting a battery life of more than two days’ regular use. Currently, Samsung’s Galaxy Gear and Moto 360 smartwatches need to be charged every day, while Microsoft is also seeking to steal a march on Apple by making the device compatible with all types of phones, whereas the Apple watch will only work with iOS devices.

Further details are scarce at this stage, but with decades’ of experience in hardware and software launches – as well as the potential for tie-ups with the popular Xbox One console – Microsoft’s smartwatch debut is expected to be a serious contender in the burgeoning wearables market.

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