After numerous complaints, Microsoft’s Band 2 gets a thicker skin, literally

Arif Bacchus

As many users throughout the internet have reported, one of the biggest problems with the Microsoft Band 2 is that the thermal plastic elastomer silicone vulcanite wristband on the device would tear in certain areas. According to WinSuperSite, Microsoft has fixed the material in newer shipments of Band 2’s in order to protect against such rips and tears.

broken band
A broken band on the Microsoft Band 2 – image credit Kellogg Brengel

The report notes that employees helping in the exchange of torn Band 2’s at Best Buy and the physical Microsoft Retail Store have mentioned that, “there’s a special lot number that has been fortified with either new or thicker material.” This lot number, apparently, can be found on the retail box for the Band 2 (as seen below.) The site is also noting that Lot numbers with 1608 or above, might have shipped with the thicker skin.

A look at where to find the Lot Number on your Band 2 box
A look at where to find the Lot Number on your Band 2 box

As WinSuperSite notes, the first two numbers in the Lot number appear to be the year of shipment, and the second two appear to be the week. So, this indicates that Band 2’s with the Lot number of 1608 (2016, 8th week) are the ones with the heftier skin for enhanced tear protection.

So, will you check your Lot Number to see if you’re one of the lucky folks with the thicker Band 2 skin? Let us know by dropping us a comment below!