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October 2023
Erica Low Sin Mun
Wearable technology, or wearables, are like digital companions you wear on your body – from smartwatches to fitness trackers, AR glasses, and sensor-infused clothing. They're here to make life smarter, healthier, and effortlessly connected.
Factors Driving The Proliferation of Wearables
Recent advancements in miniaturization and sensors have led to smaller, lighter, and more comfortable wearables. Moreover, the advancement of immersive-reality technologies is implemented in advanced hardware and peripheral devices. AR on smartphones is growing, and companies like Apple are introducing advanced AR/VR headsets with eye tracking and gesture recognition features. Wearables are gaining traction in healthcare and manufacturing, enhancing efficiency and safety. Smart glasses, for instance, enable real-time access to patient data and reduce errors.
Key Aspects in Leveraging The Potential of Wearables
In the future, wearables will seamlessly connect with other devices for a holistic user experience. For example, smartwatches control home devices, and fitness trackers syncing with virtual trainers. Augmented reality wearables like AR glasses will transform gaming, education, and remote collaboration. Wearables will also become advanced health monitors, aiding in early disease detection and personalized treatment plans. Moreover, sustainability will be a priority, with eco-friendly materials and designs. Fashion and technology will converge as wearables become more mainstream.
Wearable technology in the fashion industry
Wearable technology is a growing trend in the fashion industry, offering stylish, high-tech personalised, and functional products. Fashion accessories like smartwatches, smart jewelry, and fitness trackers are integrating electronics and computer technology. This innovation allows designers to create customized products tailored to individual users' needs. Additionally, did you know that the way we shop for clothes could potentially evolve? With immersive technologies such as VR and AR, shoppers can see what clothes would look like without ever leaving their homes.
Real-life examples of wearables in fashion
Ford’s prototype “smart jacket”: It is personalized for cyclists. It has sleeves that light up when the cyclist turns and sensors to wirelessly connect to their smartphone’s navigation app. The jacket also integrates flashing brake lights and has audio and haptic sensors to facilitate calls and repeat navigation assistance.
Fitness tracker: It can monitor the wearer’s physical activity levels, and the data can be used to create custom workout plans tailored to the individual’s needs.
The Haute Couture fashion brand Dior: It uses AR apps and filters to allow customers to try on sunglasses, sneakers, and even makeup. However, i doesn’t help to determine what the fit, fabric, or comfort will feel like.
Can wearables in fashion promote sustainability?
The answer’s YES !!! The recent innovation of synthetic spider silk combines biomimicry, sustainability, fashion, and wearable technology – all in one! It has a minimal carbon footprint and provides exceptional heat retention. They are also said to be stronger than steel and can be stretched 40% beyond its original length. Moreover, synthetic silk textiles are biodegradable, and thus, better for the environment.
Concerns with Wearable Fashion Technologies
Security is a significant challenge, with wearables capturing sensitive data. Protecting consumer privacy and preventing unauthorized access are essential too. Moreover, affordability issues may exacerbate the digital divide, limiting access to wearable benefits for some.
References
Group, T.E. (no date) The Rise of Wearable Electronics: Exploring the opportunity , LinkedIn. Available at: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/rise-wearable-electronics-exploring-opportunity (Accessed: 06 October 2023).
Christian (2023) The impact of wearable technology in Fashion, Ignitec. Available at: https://www.ignitec.com/insights/the-impact-of-wearable-technology-in-fashion-benefits-and-concerns/ (Accessed: 06 October 2023).
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