It Turns Out, People Aren't on Board With Wearable Technology (Yet)

According to a new report from the digital research firm L2 and Intel, consumers have a distaste for accessories that look like computer devices.

Image via PC Magazine

Admit it, the whole purpose of Google Glass is to reveal its wearer as a tasteless asshole who uses the flaunting of money and new technology to amplify his sense of self-worth. But you can’t pretend you didn’t entertain the idea of strolling the streets with a computer on your head. And we can’t blame you.

All biases aside, the Google Glass is actually quite practical: a hands-free smartphone that is commanded by voice? Damn right people would want one. But despite all the buzz and tempting Jetson-like features, many people haven’t made the commitment of actually purchasing Google Glass and other forms of wearable technology.

So what gives?

According to a new report from Intel and the digital research firm L2, about 75 percent of consumers know about wearable technology, but only nine percent said they have the desire to own the devices, and only two percent actually own one.

Not surprisingly, the report indicates that 52 percent of those surveyed said the wrist would be their preferred location to wear a device, 24 percent said arms, and only five percent of the respondents chose tech-enabled glasses or contact lenses to don on their head.

The study concludes by revealing the primary deterrent for people buying these items was cost, followed by the customers’ distaste to wear accessories and jewelry that look like computer devices.

So for designers looking to expand on or add wearable technology to their brand, take note: the idea is cool, but the execution has a long way to go.

[viaStylelist]

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