Although we don’t have flying cars in 2017, we do have smart accessories and clothing. Wearable tech has been on the rise for the past few years and companies are gaining momentum. Leading players in the wearable technology field include Fitbit, Nike, Adidas, Apple and many others. Companies have caught on to this growing trend and are crossing boundaries that once seemed impossible.
Everyone is sporting these smart little gadgets—from college students to grandparents. A common theme amongst these devices is their abilities to synch seamlessly with cell phones. Not only do consumers have access to a plethora of data about their exercise habits, sleeping patterns, and heart rates; they can also receive texts, emails, and calls through some devices.
This year, many new wearable tech products were released to the market and consumers can’t get enough.
Fitbit Releases New and Improved Products
The Fitbit Ionic
On October 1, Fitbit released its newest state-of-the-art smartwatch: Fitbit Ionic. This new gadget creates “personalized workouts that play on the screen and guide you through every move,” according to the website. Additionally, the Ionic has a GPS that records distance, time and pace.
But it doesn’t stop there. This cutting-edge device is water-resistant, which enables it to track swim times and calories burnt in the pool.
If exercising isn’t your thing, the Ionic also provides guided breathing assistance for relaxation.
Source: FitBit Fitbit Ionic, $299.95
The Fitbit Alta HR
Last March, Fitbit also released the Fitbit Alta HR, an upgrade from the previous Alta model. Its greatest distinction from the Alta is its ability to track heart rate through PurePulse technology. This heart rate tracking technology allows the device to calculate calories burned more accurately, the company says.
The Alta HR comes in six colors, doubling that of the original Alta. Fitbit has also created a unique offering for those concerned with the aesthetic of the accessory.
The company partnered with luxury designers Tory Burch and Public School to create casings for the Alta HR that are more fashionable.
Source: Tory Burch+FitBit Tory Burch for Fitbit, Leather Wrap Bracelet, Black / Gold
Google and Levi’s Make Clothing That Thinks
Google has recently entered the playing field of wearable technology with its Jacquard project. Here, Google partnered with Levi’s to create its first smart jacket, called the Commuter.
This isn’t your average denim jacket. Catered with “the urban cyclist in mind,” the Commuter jacket synchs with cell phones and notifies consumers when they receive calls or texts, the company website says. The dark-wash denim coat also provides navigation with a swipe to the sleeve. Crazy, right?
The Commuter also allows consumers control of their music while on the go. Need the volume louder? Tap the sleeve. Consumers can customize all these different settings through the Jacquard app on their cell phones.
Source: Levi’s Levi’s Commuter Trucker Jacket, $350
What Will Come Next?
It doesn’t stop here. Many companies have caught on to this trend and are capitalizing on the momentum it is gaining. Wareable.com wrote an article about various wearable tech companies that sell everything from smart sports bras to smart bikinis to smart socks for babies. So what’s coming next in the world of smart clothing and accessories? Only time will tell.
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