Wearable technology to enhance confidence, fitness and wellness

Cloud computing company, Rackspace has released the findings of an in-depth Australian study into the use of wearable technology and its impact on consumers and businesses.

Confirming Australians as early-adopters of new technology, the research revealed that 35% of Australians have used wearable technology such as health and fitness monitors, smart glasses, watches, clothing, or cameras, ahead of 18% in the UK and 6.4% in the USA 64% of those believe these cloud-powered devices have enhanced their lives.

The study, 'The Human Cloud: Wearable Technology from Novelty to Productivity', was commissioned by Rackspace and conducted by Pure Profile, which surveyed 750 Australians aged between 18 and 64.

Key findings from the survey:

67% of Australians who have used wearable technology stated that it has improved their health and fitness

One in four believe that wearable technology has helped their career development

32% of Australian respondents that have used wearable technology say that it has made them feel more intelligent, and 44% say it has help them keep more informed

Wearable tech has boosted self-confidence for 37% of respondents who have used it

One in three believe that wearable technology helps them feel more in control of their lives

22% of Australian respondents who use wearable tech do it to enhance their love lives

Commenting on the results, Rackspace Australia Director and General Manager Angus Dorney stated "we are at the beginning of massive mainstream uptake of wearable devices, with the impending launch of wearable devices from a variety of multinational organisations set to further boost adoption.

"However, it is important to note that wearable technology and the cloud go hand in hand - together they provide the rich data insights that help users better manage many aspects of their lives.

"Cloud services, such as computing, storage and a suite of new databases are will power the wearable technology revolution. It allows the data generated by wearable devices to be captured, analysed and made readily accessible whenever users need it."

With adoption becoming mainstream, Rackspace predict that wearable technology will form an integral part of the 'Internet of Things' - a growing network of devices - from wearable technology and smartphones to road traffic sensors - that connect to the internet to share data in real time.

The research revealed that individuals may be willing to share the data generated by wearable technology with third parties such as healthcare providers, enabling them to crowdsource insights which can be used to enhance service delivery.

One in four Australians would be willing to use a wearable health and fitness monitor that shares personal data with a healthcare provider if it led to incentives such as reduced premiums or fees

Dorney continued "the rich data created by wearable tech will drive the rise of the 'human cloud' of personal data.

"With this comes countless opportunities to tap into this data; whether it's connecting with third parties to provide more tailored and personalised services or working closer with healthcare institutions to get a better understanding of their patients.

"We are already seeing wearable technology being used in health insurance firms, who encourage members to use wearable fitness devices to earn rewards for maintaining a healthier lifestyle.

"Organisations need to assess whether they are ready to capture and process this rich new source of data. They also need to consider how they will drive deeper customer understanding and new benefits from this technology revolution."

With such a strong emphasis being placed on establishing a healthier lifestyle, adoption of wearable technology among health conscious consumers is on the rise, according to MapMyFitness Chief Executive Robin Thurston.

Thurston explains "the growth

http://www.rackspace.com.au