Wearable technology represents the next step in personal technology. Computers, smartphones and tablets have all entered the market and established themselves as ubiquitous devices owned by the vast majority of consumers. With the emergence of wearable tech, its goal is to become as valuable as those other pieces of personal tech. So far, wearable tech’s impact has been predominantly focused on the fitness and exercise market – with the technology providing data and motivation that was previously unavailable. However, looking ahead, the possibilities for wearable technology in everyday consumer lives are endless and the challenge will be for companies to come up with ways to make the technology as accessible and relevant as possible to the entire consumer market.

The primary focus of this Report will be to investigate what share of consumers are currently using wearable technology, the reasons for using it vs not using it and the features that they are most interested in. As will be shown in this Report, wearable tech has established a stable position in the marketplace – but the real test will be growing the technology to have more relevance outside of the fitness community that it is currently dependent on. The findings of this Report are based on the results of Mintel’s exclusive research and will help provide clarity on a market that is at the leading edge of technology, but may need guidance to evolve from a nice-to-have to a must-have device.

This Report covers wearable technology:

• Wearable technology: any technological device that can be worn on a user’s body, including watches/bands/bracelets, headphones, clothing and cameras.

• Smartwatch: a wearable computer in the form of a wristwatch. Capable of connecting to the internet, as well as many functions similar to a smartphone, such as GPS and activity tracking, texts, calls and music playback. Often rely on a connected smartphone to carry out many network-connected functions (eg phone calls), but there are instances of standalone smartwatches.

• Activity tracker: a wearable device that uses step counters and GPS technology to track a user’s activity. Often comes in the form of a watch/bracelet, but can take other forms too. Does not have many of the same smart functions as a smartwatch.

• Smart headphones/earbuds: headphones or earbuds with capabilities beyond simple audio playback. Typically include Bluetooth technology, voice control and access to a digital assistant. Often rely on a connected smartphone to carry out many smart functions, but there are instances of standalone smart headphones/earbuds.

• Smart clothing: clothing such as shirts and jackets with built-in technology. This can include tracking capabilities for fitness or control functions for consumers (eg tap sleeve to pause audio playback).