Microsoft Offers $250 to Switch from Apple Watch to Band 2

Microsoft wants Apple Watch users to switch over to the Microsoft Band 2 smartwatch, offering up to $250 to customers who trade in a wearable from a competitor and purchase the Band 2 smartwatch in its place.

Microsoft is calling the Apple Watch trade-in program "trade-in and trade-up," suggesting their watch is an upgrade to the Apple device, Tech Radar reports.

The program also applies to other wearable devices, like those from Fitbit, Nike or Sony, but Microsoft will only offer between $10 and $75 toward the purchase of a new Band 2 for those other devices.

It's Like Getting the Microsoft Band 2 for Free

It is possible for "trade-in and trade up" customers to break even on the deal. If a customer trades in their Apple Watch with a stainless steel case and Milanese Loop band, Microsoft will give them the full $250 credit toward the Band 2. Since the Band 2 costs $250, the customer would not need to pay any additional money out of pocket for the new device.

Other Apple Watch Versions Receive Less

A stainless steel Apple Watch with a white rubber band will give the customer $200, while an Apple Watch Sport with an aluminum case and a blue strap will net the customer $150.

Microsoft is encouraging even its loyal customers who bought the original Microsoft Band to trade that device in as well. Microsoft will give customers $35 for the original Microsoft Band for upgrading to the Band 2.

Website Reveals Value of Other Smartwatches

Microsoft established a special website that will help customers see if they are eligible for the "trade-in and trade-up" program. The website will also tell them how much money they will receive for their smart devices.

Microsoft has been very competitive with Apple in recent years. The Microsoft Surface tablet commercials have attacked Apple directly by showing what their tablets can do against the abilities of Apple MacBooks.

This is a very interesting program because it could capture customers who felt that the Apple Watch was not exactly what they thought it was going to be.