Wearable technology had a big year in 2015. Fitbits, Apple Watches and Samsung’s Gear 2 are just three heavy contenders fighting to be wrapped around your wrist. While most of these smart watches monitor your heart rate, how many steps you’ve taken and alert you of your exercise goals, you can also send voice to text messages and emails through Gear 2 and Apple Watch, among others.
While many people were rolling their eyes when wearable technology first came out, time has shown that the collective groan of “too much tech” has softened. Not only do these watches and other wearable tech keep you up to speed on your life through notifications, they are also very effective motivators to remain healthy and active. Samsung’s Gear 2, for example, will vibrate when you’ve been sitting too long and will alert you that it’s time to get moving.
Wearable technology doesn’t stop at the wrist, either. The OMsignal bra, for example, monitors your heart rate and calorie burns, and will notify you when it’s time to take it easy and when you can push yourself more through its app. Heddoko is a body suit that analyzes your workout in 3d and suggests adjustments to optimize your training and avoid injuries.
And though most wearable tech is used for health and activity, that’s not the only reason to get excited. Ringly lights up and vibrates when you get a notification for important apps. Rideon pulls up maps, ski stats, communications with friends, and much more through hands-free ski goggles. First Sign is a hair clip that detects physical assault and immediately pulls up your smartphone’s GPS, camera and microphone to gather evidence. If the clip hasn’t been turned off in 15 seconds, emergency contacts and first responders are sent the information.
Wearable technology is just one step in the direction of what we’ve been striving for—living in relative ease without the burden of inconveniences. And the good thing about wearable tech is that if you are sick of being tuned in and need to take a break from technology, you can just leave your smart watch, ring, glasses, whatever at home.
