It has been close to 2 decades since IoT wearable technology was first introduced in 2000 in the form of Bluetooth headsets that could convey messages to computers and phones.
However, the recent developments in the last 5 years have expanded the horizons of this industry. Especially it is the active interest of big players like Google, Amazon, and IBM that has certainly benefited the IoT wearable technology.
However, the launch and growth of new start-ups in the field of IoT wearables have also added a momentum to the industry as we know that it is not only a few big players but a blend of start-ups, small and medium enterprises that can enhance the commercial viability of any industry.
Today there are myriad ways in which wearable can be used and a wide number of purposes that they can offer- right from health to entertainment and payments. As this technology is on the verge of completing 2 decades it would be interesting to review the latest technologies and how could it benefit the masses and classes.
- Smartwatch is still the preferable wearable
- The IoT wearables utilize Bluetooth Technology to sync with computers and phones and allow the uses to use these devices for exchanging messages.
- It allows the users to effortlessly communicate with their devices with the help of voice instructions without using their hands.
- However, the new age technology exceeds far beyond the traditional limits in terms of capacity and forms.
- Apart from basic notifications like text messages and phone calls the wearable is also capable of notifying about app alerts, social media updates.
- Hence it has revolutionized the way the messages are exchanged and has helped the people to enjoy 24X7-connectivity without hassles of physically handling the devices.
- The advanced technology can be integrated with a number of other accessories like jewelry and even clothes.
- However, the most popular device that is currently used by the majority of the people is Smartwatch, most possibly because of ease of use that it provides.
- Use of wearables in the Healthcare sector
- One of the most promising fields where the wearables have started delivering tangible benefits is the healthcare industry.
- There are a number of smart devices in the form of accessories and watches that help the users to track their health status and take better care of the same.
- However, given the importance of healthcare to the masses as well as the classes, there is a huge scope of possibilities in this field.
- Depending upon the specific needs of the people there are a number of effective ways in which the wearable IoT can help the healthcare industry.
- The IoT has the capability to leverage the functionality of various medical devices like pacemakers by connecting them with the devices/accessories that are easy to wear and monitor.
- The latest IoT devices can actively help the wearers to collect accurate health data in a user-friendly format that can help in identifying the underlying health issues and provide ideal treatment before the things become too serious.
- While the IoT wearables can be used to monitor the exercise schedule physical activities if an individual, it can also be used for taking the competence of medical devices to the next level.
- IoT can enhance the competence of the medical devices by displaying real-time data to the patients, easily sharing the received data with the doctors and taking timely actions depending upon the changing biological rhythms.
- Wearables and Payment Transactions: Potential, Scope, and challenges
- While IoT wearables are technical competence to facilitate sending and remittance of money via these devices, the people are still wary about using the same.
- In fact, when it comes to transferring or receiving the fund’s people tend to be suspicious of using new platforms or techniques.
- The feeling of insecurity is further elevated by the recent hike in hacking activities and also because IoT can be an easy target for hackers.
- Talking about the technological competence, there are various accessories that can be utilized as the mediums for payment technology.
- Apart from the smartwatches, the fashion jewelry like bracelets, wristbands, and even necklace can be used for the purpose but it is more likely that people would prefer to use smart watches or wristbands because of its user-friendly features.
- The technology is almost available but it will still take some time before it gains enough popularity to start mass commercial production and reach the level of the likes of Fitbit and Xiaomi Mi2
- The users will only need to slide, tap and (maybe) press the thumb for identity purpose in order to complete a transaction.
- It will not only facilitate the instant payment for consumers without having to use any external device but will also make it easier for the vendors to accept quick payments. With mobile payment technology, we are already half the way there.
- One of the payment technologies that are already being utilized by a few popular wearables is Visa Token Service.
- This new age technology utilizes UDI to add an extra layer of security to payment through IoT for the uninformed, the UDI stands of Unique Digital Identifier.
- Hence, the customer no longer needs to share his crucial account information each time he has to make the transactions
- Understandably, it will remove a major roadblock that makes many customers wary of using IoT enabled devices for payment purposes as they are afraid of account information leakage The Fitbit Ionic is already associated with this token service. Another major name is Garmin vivoactive.
- Augmented Reality and IoT Wearable
- Google Glass is not a new term for the technology enthusiasts. This ambitious product by Google was the Internet Giant’s sincere approach towards elevating the capabilities of wearable technology and exploring innovative ways in which it can help the wearers.
- This technology was actually aimed at optimizing the way the wearer interacts with their surroundings.
- The technology used sophisticated capabilities to help the wearer learn more about the surroundings and be able to enjoy seamless entertainment with the help of augmented reality.
- Unfortunately, the product couldn’t mimic the phenomenal success enjoyed by this Internet Giant but it has certainly sparked an interest in the public.
- Obviously, that has also added to the commercial viability of the products and in the future, we may see more big players trying to come up with innovative IoT devices for allowing the wearers to enjoy augmented reality.
Author Bio
Annette is a content writer and director of operations. She writes for various industries like travel, wildlife, history, art, and of course technology! She works with B2B and B2C businesses providing digital marketing content that gains social media attention and increases their search engine visibility.
