Have you ever heard someone mention Wearable Technology (Wearables) but weren’t sure what they meant? Simply put, Wearable Technology is a general term for a group of devices—including fitness trackers and smartwatches—designed to be worn throughout the day. In just a few short years, Wearable Technology has gone from being nonexistent to being everywhere.
In the last decade, Wearable Technology has surged in popularity, including activity trackers, smart-designed clothes, smart watches, etc. Both consumers and companies are beginning to use various devices for various applications. With no sign of slowing down and a growing impact on society, it’s essential to consider the market’s topmost wearable devices and gadgets.
Today, wearable technology allows for smaller and more powerful devices. For instance, miniaturizing components such as microchips and batteries have allowed for more sophisticated functionality in a smaller form factor. The integration of sensors into wearable devices has also greatly improved, with sensors becoming more accurate and capable of collecting more data.
On the one hand, because of the sudden spike in Wearable Technology popularity, Wearables can potentially change our lives and society for better or worse. On the other hand, because they’re so new, it’s difficult to tell what effects they will have, but we can speculate based on our current knowledge of them. This article will examine the technology behind wearable devices.
Understanding What Wearable Technology (Wearables) Offers The Marketplace
As mentioned, Wearable Technology fosters Wearables in the market — electronic devices worn on the body as accessories or implants. They have gained significant popularity recently due to technological advancements, miniaturization, battery life, and connectivity. In just a few short years, Wearables or Wearable Technology has gone from being nonexistent to being everywhere.
In the workplace, wearable devices can improve safety by monitoring worker fatigue levels and alerting managers when a worker is at risk of injury. Technology is constantly evolving, with innovations and advancements being made continuously. Technically, integrated wearable devices will likely continue to become more powerful, specialized, and essential for everyday activities.
Wearables typically consist of a combination of microelectronics, sensors, and communication tools. The microelectronics component includes a tiny computer chip, memory, and battery. Sensors, such as accelerometers, gyroscopes, and heart rate monitors, collect data about the wearer’s body and environment. Eventually, this data is then transmitted to other devices.
This may include smartphones or computers through communication technologies such as Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or cellular data. Wearable technology is also becoming more specialized for specific industries and applications. In healthcare, wearable devices can monitor vital signs and medical conditions, allowing remote patient monitoring and better healthcare management.
How Wearable Technology Devices Help Simplify Our Modern Lifestyle
Before Wearables, obtaining a lot of the information listed above was possible, but it was sometimes a hassle and required devices that weren’t always convenient. Wearables are connected to our smart devices, transmitting this information to them and allowing us to view it at later times and in the moment. This can help you set goals and track your progress toward them.
The most significant advance in Wearable Technology (Wearables) is using Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) in their design. The devices can learn from the data they collect and make predictions or recommendations based on that data. For example, a fitness tracker can use ML to provide personalized workout recommendations based on previous exercise data.
Ultimately, Wearable Technology allows us to monitor our fitness levels, track our location with GPS, and view text messages more quickly. Best of all, most devices that will enable us to do this are hands-free and portable, eliminating the need to take our devices out of our pockets. On that note, Arshon Technology is a leading company in wearable device design and manufacturing.
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Further studies will be necessary to measure the effectiveness of wearables in empowering individuals. The investigation of user outcomes through large-scale studies would also be beneficial. Nevertheless, a significant challenge will be in the publication of research to keep pace with rapid developments related to wearable health technology. Below are a few memorable mentions.
Fitness Trackers
Whether training for a marathon or trying to be more active, these devices can help you better understand your daily activity. They can track the number of steps you take, your average heart rate, how long you sleep, etc. This data can then be synced with another device, allowing you to see the trends and patterns of your activity. For example, you may know how far you’ve walked.
Over the past week, estimate how many calories you’ve burned daily. Fitness trackers are available at various prices depending on your needs and form factors. Basic models that clip onto your belt or shoe can cost as little as $50, but other models—such as wristbands and jewelry—can be more expensive. Some popular fitness tracker brands include Fitbit, Basis, Misfit, etc.
Smartwatches
If you have a smartphone, you’ll probably receive many notifications, like emails, texts, and calls. But if you don’t like looking at your phone throughout the day, a smartwatch may be able to help. These devices can be synced with your smartphone, allowing you to see notifications on your wrist at a glance. Most smartwatches can also be used as simple fitness trackers.
However, they are much more expensive. The average smartwatch starts at around $200. Most smartwatches rely on a smartphone, meaning your chosen model will depend on your phone. For example, the Apple Watch can only be synced with an iPhone, while Android Wear devices—such as the Moto 360 and Samsung Gear—can only be connected to Android phones.
Safety Wearables
Safety wearables are devices designed to help you when you feel threatened or in danger. They’re sometimes disguised as jewelry, so they can be used discreetly without letting a potential attacker know what the user is doing. Most are operated by a button that sends an alert to others, sounds a loud alarm, or both.
The alerts they send can either be pre-programmed texts or recorded voice messages. Many also have built-in GPS, allowing you to immediately share your location with friends, family, nearby people, or even the police. Some smartwatches can be synced with just about any smartphone—like the Pebble—but they also tend to have fewer features than the models listed above.
The Topmost Wearable Technology Advantages
Regarding Wearable Technology, it’s worth noting that Wearables have become increasingly popular over the past few years, but the basic idea is nothing new. For example, if you’ve ever worn a wristwatch, you’ve already used a simple wearable. Today’s wearables can connect with your existing devices (computers and smartphones), fostering many exciting things.
One of the top benefits of wearables is that they can track and store your physical activity for viewing later. This can be a great resource, allowing us to set short-term and long-term goals and track our progress toward them. By receiving real-time notifications on our activity, like reminders to stand or walk, wearables can also be a source of encouragement and motivation.
Still, considerable literature findings suggest that wearables can empower individuals by assisting with diagnosis, behavior change, and self-monitoring. However, greater adoption of wearables and engagement with wearable devices depend on various factors. This includes provider promotion and support to encourage uptake and increased short-term investment to upskill staff.
This is especially essential in data analysis and overcoming the barriers to use, particularly by improving device accuracy. Acting on these suggestions will require investment and constructive input from key stakeholders, namely users, healthcare professionals, and technology designers. We expect more advancements to make wearables viable devices with these benefits.
1. Convenient User Devices
Wearable devices provide users with a high level of convenience as they are lightweight, portable, and easily accessible. They are designed to be worn on the body and easily integrated into daily activities. Wearable devices like smartwatches and fitness trackers allow users to track their daily activities, set reminders, and receive notifications without taking out their phones. The convenience of wearable devices enables users to stay connected, informed, and productive.
2. Real-Time Data Monitoring
One of the most significant advantages of wearable devices is their ability to provide real-time monitoring. Wearable devices with sensors like heart rate monitors, accelerometers, and GPS trackers can collect and analyze data about a user’s physical activity, sleep patterns, and health metrics. This data can be helpful for users looking to improve their health and fitness and individuals with chronic conditions who need to monitor their symptoms. Real-time monitoring can also benefit athletes who need to track their performance and adjust their training accordingly.
3. Improved Fitness And Health
Wearable devices can help users improve their fitness and health by providing information about their physical activity, nutrition, and sleep patterns. Fitness trackers can monitor the number of steps taken, calories burned, and heart rate, while smart scales can track body weight and fat percentage. With the help of this information, users can set goals, track progress, and make informed decisions about their lifestyle and health habits.
4. Enhanced Safety And Security
Wearable devices can also enhance safety and security. For instance, some smartwatches have built-in fall detection sensors that can automatically call for help if a fall is detected. Wearable devices can also be used to track a user’s location in real time, which can be helpful in emergencies. Additionally, some wearable devices, like intelligent/innovative jewelry, can be programmed to alert loved ones or emergency services if the user feels threatened or in danger.
5. Improved Communication
Wearables can improve communication by enabling users to stay connected with others while on the go. Smartwatches and fitness trackers can receive and display notifications, text messages, and calls, allowing users to keep in touch with family, friends, and colleagues. Devices with voice assistants, like Siri or Alexa, can also help users stay organized and manage tasks.
Some Notable Drawbacks Limiting These Wearable Devices
While there have been cases of wearables helping to save lives, it’s worth noting that these are not medical devices and should not be used to diagnose or treat health concerns. Many have also been shown to mis-measure heart rates, especially during exercise. Notwithstanding, for some users, it can be a hassle to remember to remove your wearable and charge it regularly.
On the other hand, there’s no guarantee that people will continue using wearables over time. At first, they’re pretty novel and exciting, but a particular study has shown that around 30% of people stopped using them because they didn’t find them helpful or grew tired of them. Additionally, many wearable devices have built-in heart monitors that give you real-time heart rate readings.
Because of this, several developers are looking into some solutions. For instance, they are looking into the possibility of wireless charging options that would eliminate the need to remove the device. Equally important, some devices, like the simpler Fitbit Trackers, can last several days. However, some more advanced Wearables, like the Apple Watch, will only last for a day or so.
Like most innovative devices, wearables can be expensive, limiting their accessibility to specific users. At the same time, there are affordable options on the market; more advanced devices can cost hundreds of dollars. Additionally, the cost of maintaining the device, such as replacing the battery or upgrading the software, can add to the overall expense. Below are a few more cons.
1. Privacy And Security Concerns
One of the biggest concerns associated with wearable devices is privacy and security. Wearable devices collect and transmit personal data, which can be vulnerable to hacking, data breaches, and identity theft. Additionally, wearable devices can track users’ location and activity, raising privacy concerns. Users must take steps to ensure their data is secure and protected.
2. Dependence On The Technology
Wearable devices can also create dependence on technology. Users may become reliant on the information provided by wearable devices, such as step counts, heart rate, and sleep data. This dependence can lead to anxiety or stress if the device malfunctions or is lost. Additionally, users may become disconnected from the natural world and rely too heavily on wearables.
3. Some Have Limited Battery Life
Wearable devices typically have a limited or relatively short battery life, which can be inconvenient for users. Users must charge their devices regularly, which can disrupt daily routines or make it difficult to use the device when needed. At the same time, battery life can impact the device’s functionality and accuracy, leading to data inaccuracies.
4. Small Screen Size And Limited Functionality
Wearable devices have small screens and limited functionality compared to other electronic devices, such as smartphones or tablets. This limited functionality can frustrate users needing more robust features or applications. The small screen size can also make reading or interacting with the device complex, particularly for users with vision or dexterity issues.
5. Data Accuracy And Interpretation
Wearable devices collect a large amount of data, which may not always be accurate or valid. Factors such as device calibration, user error, or environmental conditions can impact the accuracy of the data collected. Additionally, interpreting the data can be challenging, particularly for users unfamiliar with the technology or data analysis. Some wearables have been reported to mismeasure data on occasion. This can be especially dangerous when measuring data like heart rates.
In Conclusion;
Wearable Technology (Wearables) refers to a collection of innovative/smart/intelligent devices that most future-enthusiast individuals wear. In the healthcare field, wearables may assist with individual monitoring and diagnosis. The potential for Wearable Technology to help with healthcare has received recognition from health systems worldwide for data monitoring.
At the same time, some wearables can enhance fashion and lifestyle. Many wearable devices are designed to be fashionable and can be customized to match the user’s style and preferences. Wearable devices like smartwatches, fitness trackers, and innovative jewelry come in various colors, materials, and styles, making it easy for users to find a device that fits their fashion.
On the contrary, a false wearable device reading could lead to overexertion and further health issues for individuals with heart conditions. Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide whether a wearable device is something you would benefit from. With their increase in popularity, it’s essential to weigh the pros and cons before committing to one. Ensure you purchase a suitable device.
Remember, these devices are not limited to most patients’ specialist medical systems. Fortunately, some leading technology companies, including Apple, have been exploring the capabilities of wearable technology for health-conscious consumers. Despite advancements in wearable health technology, research is yet to be conducted on wearables and their vital utilization.
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