Any electronic gadget that may be attached to a person’s body is considered wearable technology. Jewelry, accessories, medical equipment, and clothing or garment components are all examples of possible shapes for such devices. While the name “wearable computing” might imply some level of processing or communications capability, the fact is that the level of sophistication varies widely across wearables.
Google Glass, Microsoft’s HoloLens, and a holographic computer in the form of a virtual reality (VR) headset are among the most cutting-edge instances of wearable technology. A disposable skin patch with sensors that transmits patient data wirelessly to a control device in a healthcare institution is an example of a less complex form of wearable technology.
What is the Function of Wearable Technology?
Smartwatches, activity trackers like the Fitbit Charge, virtual reality headsets, smart jewelry, web-enabled glasses, and Bluetooth headphones are all examples of the modern wearable technology spectrum.
The purpose and mode of operation of wearables, whether they be designed for health and fitness or for media and play, vary widely. Most commonly, microprocessors, batteries, and internet connectivity are included in wearable gear to allow for data collection and subsequent synchronization with other devices.
The sensors inside wearables can detect motion, collect biometric data for identification purposes, or help you maintain tabs on your position. The most popular wearables, such as activity trackers and smartwatches, use a wristband that records the wearer’s movements and vitals at regular intervals.
Many wearables are worn directly on the body or are linked to clothes, whereas others only require proximity to the user to perform their intended function.
People can still be followed while they go about their day if they have a cell phone, smart tag, or computer with them. Some wearables use optical sensors to measure heart rate or glucose levels, while others rely on distant smart sensors and accelerometers to monitor movement and speed. All of these wearable technologies share the ability to monitor information in real-time.
Uses in the Real World and Other Special Cases
There have also been failures; Google Glass is the most notable example. It’s possible that Internet-connected spectacles will make a comeback for niche applications, but they were never going to be a style staple.
There appears to be a shift in the focus of wearable technology development away from fashionable accessories and toward more utilitarian and niche uses. Keys and passwords are being replaced by microchip implants. The chips, like those used to track lost pets, are embedded in a fingertip and employ near-field communication (NFC) or radio-frequency identification (RFID).
However, it is in the realm of medical equipment that wearable technology truly shines.
Examples of Wearable Technologies
Wearable Devices for Health and Fitness
The fitness and wellness industries are natural fits for wearables. Smartwatches, such as the Fitbit and the Apple Watch, were the first to record data on the wearer’s activity and vitals. Many people’s everyday routines now include intermittent checks on their status.
Because of the information these watches provide, they promote better habits. Keeping track of your mileage can motivate you to run even further in an effort to beat your previous best. Seeing that you’ve almost reached your daily step goal of 10,000 can motivate you to go out for a stroll.
Just keeping a log of your sleep patterns may inspire you to make adjustments that will help you get a better night’s rest. When it comes to improving one’s health and well-being, wearable technology can be an effective tool.
Life Insurance Wearables
Wearables are provided by life insurance firms to their policyholders so that they can monitor their health and make informed decisions about their care. Smartwatches and fitness trackers are examples of wearable technology that can be used to monitor a person’s physical activity, heart rate, and other vital signs.
The acquired information can be used to adjust premiums and provide a clearer picture of clients’ health statuses for life insurance policies. Rather than basing an individual’s policy on a subjective factor like age, this approach is significantly more grounded.
Accessories for Video Game Players
One of the most promising applications of wearable technology is in the gaming industry. In the business world, virtual reality (VR) headsets have become the standard for wearable technology. When gamers put on virtual reality (VR) headsets like the Oculus Rift or PlayStation VR, they are transported to fantastical worlds.
Are you curious about the experience of using Lightsabers in combat? Perhaps you’ve always wanted to race in the Indianapolis 500 and finally get your chance to live out your wildest ambitions. Wearable virtual reality technology is allowing gamers all over the world to take part in incredible new adventures like these.
Haptic devices are a popular form of wearable technology in the video game business. A gamer can get real-time tactile feedback from these high-tech accessories. This refers to a gadget that stimulates a player’s sense of touch, such as through the application of force or vibrations.
Simply said, Haptic vests, gloves, or suits make gaming more realistic by allowing the user to feel true recoil after discharging a simulated weapon or by providing tactile feedback on the sensation of dribbling a virtual basketball. Despite being in its infancy, haptic technology has the potential to make games and wearables more engaging and lifelike in the future.
Fashion Wearables
The incorporation of wearable technology into the fashion industry is a natural progression. Full-body suits embedded with hundreds of tiny Internet of Things sensors track athletes’ every motion. The collected information will allow them to fine-tune their approach to each swing, shot, or kick. The emerging market for consumer wearable technology garments is fascinating.
Sensors sewn into smart jackets may measure the wearer’s temperature and adjust the jacket’s internal climate accordingly. Fashionable activity trackers and sleep monitors, smart rings are becoming increasingly popular. It’s possible that in the future, our pants will be able to charge our phones using the heat our bodies generate. Wearable technologies in the fashion industry show that technology can be both savvy and chic.
More developments in the field of technology have recently been announced and you can read more about them by visiting the links provided below:
- Exploring the Definition and Applications of Virtual Reality Technology
- What Is Cloud Computing? What Does a Cloud Computing System Look Like?
Travel Wearables
Smart wearables are a game-changer for the tourism business because of the virtual reality experiences they enable. In-depth virtual tours of hotel rooms, local landmarks, and other possible locations are now a reality thanks to virtual reality (VR) technology. Customers will have a better trip overall since they will have more options for where to stay and what to see.
Ticket and boarding pass information can be stored in a digital wallet like Apple Wallet, a feature offered by many airlines. Wearers of smartwatches can quickly access their boarding and admission passes on their devices.
Accessories for Learning
Wearable technology has aided the educational sector in keeping up with the rapid pace of technological change brought on by the advent of the digital age. With the use of smart glasses and virtual reality headsets, businesses may provide employees and students with training using simulated or digital surroundings. Users are put in a realistic situation and can spend more time practicing what they’ve learned rather than sitting through a boring lecture.
Moreover, stress and relaxation levels can be monitored via a headband equipped with a brain sensor. Teachers can use this tool to determine when students are trying too hard intellectually, and then instruct them on how to maintain composure while learning new material.
Logistics Wearables
Wearable technology has helped other sectors, too; the logistics industry, for example, is using it to create more streamlined processes. Warehouse employees equipped with smart eyewear like Google Glass can quickly scan barcodes, access data from a database, and make adjustments as they go. With this method in place, workers may more efficiently sort packages and goods without having to return to a traditional computer terminal.
Virtual reality glasses can even be used to guide workers across big warehouses by showing them the quickest path between two points. These glasses can also help you see the most efficient way to stack boxes, protecting fragile goods from being crushed. With so many useful features, wearable devices are a must for the logistics industry.
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