What can I do about Microsoft Health's age limit?

[Gregory Whatley]

I'm very interested in the Microsoft Band, but one of the only things keeping me from buying one is that the Microsoft Health app has a 18-year old minimum ag. I'm not 18. I would just make a fake birthday, but my age is probably a contributing factor in the data it collects, which would lead to inaccurate readings. Also, unless I misread Band's website, Microsoft Band would still work without the Health companion, but features like Cortana and notifications would be unavailable. Am I out of luck with Band for now or is there a way to go around this?

 

[Nate Silver]

I did not realize that, but I think it makes sense. There are huge issues surrounding privacy of health data for (forgive me) 'minors'. You could try contacting MS support directly and put the question to them, but I suspect the only way around it would be to fake it, and that's not really a great thing to do either. Without the Health app, the Band would be pretty much totally crippled, I think.

 

[hotphil]

Depending on where you are, that sounds very much like a regulatory issue.

 

[NBrookus]

As long as you are well into your teens, say 15+, I would think the age difference in the calculations would be minimal. These devices are a guideline, not necessarily a precise measurement. As long as the data you are working with is consistent, it can still work to help you reach your goals.

 

[Bryon Burns]

This has to do with HIPAA, prevents a minor (individuals under 18) from consenting to disclosure of health information unless a parent or guardian gives consent. Microsoft avoids this by not allowing minors to use the software. Rather, not being able to enter an age under 18. Although this implication also prevents the heart rate targeting algorithm from working correctly for those under 18, it shouldn't affect the results too much in any case.

 

[anon(8555314)]

I would just fake it and roll back the year of birth every year until it is correct.

 

[pallentx]

Yeah, its privacy laws. If somehow health data got leaked, penalties for minor's data is worse and statute of limitations is longer to sue. It stinks, but this is what you get when lawyers run the world.