Wearable tech is all the rage and is being touted as the future of technology. From Bluetooth rings to activity tracking wristbands, there are growing options to embrace the wearable tech trend. Is this a fad or a shift in consumer engagement? Here is FSC Interactive’s take on the subject.
Wearable Tech: A Fad or the Future?
McKenzie: I think it is great and easy – an accessory that actually functions to create efficiencies and save time. Do I wear them? No – but I do think they are a great way to bundle and share technology for the on-the-go or more digitally active end user.
Tiffany: I am trying hard not be a hater, but there are certain things I just find silly…including (dare I say it) Google Glass. This is just one tech advance that I probably won’t jump on the bandwagon as an early adopter. I will keep an open mind. I like the idea of tracking your exercise and using wearable tech for health reasons. My first foray into this world might be a fitbit, but don’t think I’ll be sporting Bluetooth jewelry anytime soon.
Lydia: Wearable tech is the obvious progression as we continue to create more innovative and convenient ways to use existing technology. From gloves with fingertips that allow you to use your smartphone touchscreen to Google Glass, companies are trying to figure out how to make technology fit more easily into everyday life. My favorite iteration of this trend has to be the Kickstarter for printable Instagram nail art. About a year ago, when well made nail art stickers first came on the scene, I thought it would be wonderful to have Rothko nails – unfortunately Essie and other nail art brands did not make these. With nail art made from Instagram prints, this and more would be possible. And yes, I would absolutely Instagram a photo of my Instagram nails. Meta.
Annie: Personally, I don’t think we’re quite ready for wearable tech, but I do think it will be there somewhere in the future. It’s definitely cool, but I question how practicable some of the items are and if people really want to start talking into their watches. I think we’ll see exciting innovations in the field for years to come, though.
Kate: I don’t know much about wearable tech. But I can’t quite get into the whole idea of wearing a phone-like device on my wrist. I’m a huge fitness fanatic so I think that I’d be interested in the activity-geared tech. I would be in to the competition side of things with my friends, or strangers, with activity hours logged, miles ran, etc. It just may be something I need to look in to!
Matt: I think it is mostly a passing fad. While mobile technology has become increasingly available in many different forms and sizes, I think we are still many years away from seeing every other person on the street wearing a phone-watch. Think about the iPhone. This device revolutionized mobile technology in 2007, but it hasn’t changed a whole lot 7 years later. I don’t think the average consumer (outside of fitness and specialized needs) are ready for something to replace the cell phone anytime soon.
Margaux: Wearable tech is so much more than just a fad! Personally, I love all of the lifestyle-enhancing options that wearable tech offers to track workouts, eating habits, sleep patterns, etc. Health and lifestyle continue to become increasingly prominent trends, food brands continue to prioritize healthy ingredients, and restaurants continue to emphasize organic and farm-to-table. Wearable tech fits seamlessly into this movement, providing ways for consumers to incorporate it into our lives. Taking this into account along with all of the other uses for wearable tech, I don’t see it going anywhere, only improving.