Wearable Computing & You
Wearable Computing is - for all intents and purposes - a movement of convenience, with multiple functions being combined into a singular devices. Whether you're sporting a Sony SmartWatch or viewing the world through Google Glass, the goal of these products is to make what you want readily available to you as you need it. Some of these products also allow connectivity with other devices such as mp3 players, mobile phones, tablets, and gaming systems. For example, with Pebble on your wrist, you are able to skip songs on your compatible player from a distance.
Some examples of how Wearable Computing can make your life more convenient, or otherwise benefit you are listed below.
Some examples of how Wearable Computing can make your life more convenient, or otherwise benefit you are listed below.
Health & Fitness
For fitness buffs, devices such as Nike+, BodyMedia FIT Armbands and even Pebble (using apps) can help improve weight loss or to generally keep fit. The BodyMedia FIT Armband "captures over 5,000 readings every minute", allowing the user to get information about the calories burnt each day, and even how well they've slept at night. Nike+ approaches the collection of data in a slightly different way; they have 'gamified' the experience by offering rewards and 'achievements' for fitness goals completed.
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Business Users
Business Users are often in contact via multiple devices such as computers, tablets and mobile phones. Incorporating something like a Pebble or iWatch into their daily lives allows such users to receive notifications about text messages, emails, incoming calls, etc. on their wrist. A simple glance at a watch replaces the necessity of having to pull out a phone during a meeting or even on the go.
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Sports Fanatics
As seen in the Google Glass "How It Feels" video, Wearable Computing can benefit those participating in sports by allowing hands-free interaction, data recording and receiving updates on the go. With the data gathered, users can reflect upon their performance and potentially improve based on the data available at their fingertips (or in front of their eyes).
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Do you have a unique way of using Wearable Computing? Head on over to the Wearable Computing Facebook Page and discuss it with others, or find out how Wearable Computing got to where it is today on our History page.