A recent report by PwC (Price Waterhouse Coopers) and their consumer industry series says that wearables are not embraced yet and are still considered a novelty. One-third of the folks who bought a device a year ago do not wear it now.
Just as the iPhone was a game changer for smart phones and the iPad for tablets, I think that the Apple Watch will also be a game changer for wearables. According to the report purchase of wearables is on target with the percentage of folks who owned tablets two years after they emerged, twenty percent. Tablet ownership has doubled to 40% over the next two years and I predict wearables will do that as well.
The "Apple watch" will probably dominate but sales of other wearable smart watches, fitness bands, and other devices will also sore.
I have reviewed lots of wearables including Jawbone, Jawbone Up, Fitbug Orb, Shine, Flash, Pulse, Fitbits: One, Force, Flex, Zip, original Fitbit, Basis, Max, and others.
Despite the complaints about inconsistency of information, unreliability and privacy concerns here are 5 Reasons I love wearables:
1. Data. I am a geek and the information that is collected is pure data.
2. Fashion. Wearables are not just for the wrist anymore, although there are also designer wrist bands too. Youloo makes fashion accessories for the Fitbit Flex.
3. Some wearables are designed to be stylish in and of themselves. Techhive's John Philips did a piece on "9 stylish wearables that won't make you look like a high-tech dork"
4. Sometimes I like looking like a high tech dork, but there are also designers like Tory Burch who partner with wearable companies.
5. For me the main reason I love wearables is for improved health. They all monitor fitness and food on some levels. I am more conscious of my food, water, and protein consumption. I can track my exercise, heart rate, blood pressure, and other vitals. There are also free apps you can pair the devises with.
All in all, have fun and be fitter.
Peace, love, compassion, and blessings.