A few years ago, I would have thought that “wearing a smartwatch” meant keeping an eye on the stock market. Sure, we saw the likes of James Bond and Maxwell Smart having futuristic techno-watches decades ago, but that was science fiction.
Actually, it was a preview—as is most sci-fi gadgetry these days.
Before Apple launched the Apple Watch last year, precursors had hit the market. LG, Microsoft, Motorola, Razer, Samsung, and Sony didn’t get the same traction as Apple has—no surprise there—but it drove the popularity of the smartwatch concept, much like the iPhone whet so many appetites for a smartphone years ago.
“From 2015 through 2017, smartwatch adoption will have 48% growth largely due to Apple popularizing wearables as a lifestyle trend,” said Angela McIntyre, a research director at Gartner.
A Gartner study released in February 2016 predicts that 274.59 million wearable devices will be sold in 2016, rising to 322.7 million in 2017. Smartwatches comprised 50.4 million of the total units sold this year.
We do love our technology. And now we don’t have to just tuck our lightweight toys in a pocket. We can wear them! From watches to clothing, headsets, and fitness gear, we’re suiting up with wearable technology at a rapid rate.
What else can we sport for wearable technology? Let’s go from head to toe.
- The LifeBeam Smart Hat isn’t particularly chic, but the baseball cap’s sensor monitors your heart rate, calorie consumption, and aerospace-level cadence (that is, a “step-counter” for us normal people). Just link it to your favorite fitness app.
- Kokoon headphones are designed to improve your sleep, and keep track of the quality of your rest. The headphones are equipped with EEG sensors that monitor your brain waves. The system can tell when you’re asleep, automatically lowering the volume and cancelling out noise (like maybe the snorer next to you) so you can stay asleep. The concept was funded through an enthusiastic Kickstarter campaign, and the demand was so high that production fell behind. The headphones are scheduled to ship this September. Get in line behind me!
- If the smartwatch is a bit bulky for your outfit, accessorize with smart jewelry. The Mira smart bracelet is a fitness tracker with more elegance. Ringly’s Aries smart bracelets act as a step tracker, calendar, and social media connection. The gold-plated bangle with your choice of four semi-precious gemstones works with more than a hundred apps, including Snapchat and Uber.
- How about yoga pants that tell you when your form isn’t right? Nadi Smart Fitness Pants are fitted with electronic sensors that emit a vibration to gently alert you to adjust your movement. Ommmmmm.…
- Under Armour’s Speedform Gemini 2 smart sneakers track your steps—distance, stride length, and pace—and calories burned. The data is said to be more accurate than those you gather on your smart watch. Does that mean the shoes are smarter than the watch?
What do you think of the wearable technology trend? Which one is the most appealing to you? Share with us on Twitter @LTronCorp!
