Wearable technology has become one of the biggest trends and buzzwords in 2020. These smartwatches empowered with cutting edge technology are not only gaining immense popularity with new models releasing every now and then, but it is also spreading its wings into other exciting areas.

Are you also using these fitness bands to monitor your sleep quality, fitness, heart rate, activities, and more? Then you are also one of the million users who are obsessed with wearable devices. According to a recent survey conducted by the American College of Sports Medicine, wearable tech will be the hottest fitness trend in the coming years. 

The technology will be a significant component of the IoMT- Internet of Medical Things. It includes medical devices and applications that are connected to healthcare IT systems via an online computer network. These wearables will soon witness a huge transformation from simple devices to complex healthcare applications. With constant evolution and technological advances in fitness culture and wearable app development services, it is easier now to track and collect information about health and lifestyle, chronic diseases, and quality of life. Even patients with diseases, such as arrhythmias,  diabetes, mental and neurological conditions can ensure self-health. All thanks to these smart bands that have got your back at every step. 

We have highlighted major trends of 2020 in wearable fitness technology and statistics related to it in this article. These points will show you the potential of this technology and what you can expect in the future. So please, have a read.

Facts and Statistics for 2020

• Wearable technology is worth around $50 billion in the last year which is almost double since 2014.
• 90% of American consumers have said that they are using smartwatches as fitness trackers.
• It is an integral part of enterprise mobility services, and the revenue from top fitness and healthcare apps has witnessed a growth of 61% and has reached a whopping amount of $327 million across the globe.
• In 2017, the total number of wearable device users that are connected to 4G was 526 million and by 2022, the number may reach 900 million. 
• More than 95% of users prefer one app for fitness and health which means that the retention rate of these applications is quite high. 

Trends You Must Look Forward To

Fitness Trackers

Yes, we know that fitness trackers are not exactly a new concept. You can easily keep a check on your health and physical activities with these smart bands that are equipped with sensors. We all are living a strenuous and busy life full of anxieties and struggles. No wonder that we often ignore our wellbeing and have concerns about the impact of such a lifestyle on our health.

With wearable devices that always track our every move, we are encouraged to work out and sweat out a little daily. Trackers go beyond just counting calories and steps or reminding us of exercise schedules. They apparently help us sleep better and improve overall physical health along with recommending the right diet and routine by syncing to various applications. Fitness trackers even track heart rate and health while sleeping to get a complete picture of our health and wellness. 

ECG & Blood Pressure Monitors

Another unique feature of wearable devices is their ability to measure ECG or electrocardiograms. With ECG monitors, you can share the reading with doctors easily within a few minutes. The bands also detect atrial fibrillation which is important and helpful for patients with serious heart problems and other chronic diseases. With monitoring technology, you can be assured of quick, consistent, accurate care for yourself and other members of the family.

Also, it’s a perfect solution offered by healthcare providers to increase patients’ satisfaction and ensure their wellness. Now, wearable app development companies are also coming up with BPM (Blood Pressure Monitor). In the case of high BP, the device will alarm the user to reduce efforts and take the right precautions on time along with providing his/her doctor with additional information. If BP is normal, then the monitor assists people to make sure that it remains stable to avoid any stroke or hypertension. You can also use BPM to detect cardiovascular risk, diagnose and monitor hypertension, and more. 

Wearables in Insurance

Wearable devices are not popular only among consumers and direct users but also prove to be beneficial for many companies offering insurance services. Yes, you heard it right, the technology is a blessing for insurers and helping them to reduce the ever-rising cost per patient. Along with using it to increase the customer lifetime value, the companies are using these smart bands to know the exact health condition of clients.

Companies can equip their customers with wearable technologies and incentivize their behaviors to control hospital admissions, unhealthy lifestyles, and poorly managed personal wellbeing. Ask users and most of them will agree that this technology has helped them become more aware of their wellness and physical health. It also inspires them to adopt a better diet plan, exercise regime, and a daily schedule. Hence, there is no doubt that sooner more insurance companies will make wearable technology a crucial part of their strategy. 

Hearables

There have been many inventions and technologies for people with hearing issues. Some have proved to be greatly helpful while others could not give the required results. Joining the list of the latest generation of wearable devices is hearable, a significant tool to assist people with hearing problems and reduce their struggle to have a normal conversation. There are smart hearable devices, such as wireless headphones with advanced features like assistive hearing that enable users to hear voices and sound.

Another significant discovery is intelligent bike helmets for cyclists to listen to music or catch up on official work while commuting or cycling. This technology is assisted with features, such as built-in GPS. This cutting edge technology will soon replace hearing aid as hearables can be worn in the ear canal and include many benefits for the wearer.

Another advantage of these devices over traditional hearing aids is that they enhance conversations when there is a constant disturbance from background noise. Hence, the wearers will hear only what they want to hear and can block other unwanted sounds. 

Wrapping It Up!

One thing is for sure that wearable technology is here to stay and it will become increasingly prominent in the coming years. It will address more and more challenges concerning fitness and health while also improving the quality of life. We won’t be exaggerating if we say that it will be a standard among users who seriously care about their health and wellness. So, whether you are looking forward to buying a smart band for you or launching your brand of smartwatch, this is the right time. 

About the Author:

Alicia works with the editorial team of A3logics, a leading company offering IT consulting services and development solutions. Exploring the latest technologies, reading about them, and writing her views have always been her passion. She seeks new opportunities to express her opinions, explore technological advancements, and document the details. You can always find her enjoying books or articles about varied topics or jotting down her ideas in a notebook.

Photo credits:

• FitNish Media
• Nikita Kostrykin
• Kate Miheyeva
• Maxwell Ridgeway

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Because of their similarities, it’s easy to think of Charge 2 and Charge 3 as interchangeable devices. However, remember that the Charge 3 is the newer and better model. Below is a basic comparison on the Fitbit Charge 2 vs the Fitbit Charge 3.

Keep reading to find out some of the key differences between the two.

1. Design

Let’s start with the biggest elements of the Fitbit Charge series. At first glance, you can see that both fitness trackers have the same general design. They both sport a band that’s as wide as the body and a rectangular screen.

At a closer look, you’ll notice that Fitbit Charge 3 has a slimmer and lighter design. Fitbit uses aluminum to construct Charge 3, resulting in a lighter watch. It also has a more refined look, compared to the Charge 2, and is swim-proof.

Instead of keeping the protruding button of Charge 2, Charge 3 has a recessed button. This doesn’t only give it a more streamlined look. It also has interchangeable straps so you can still wear your Charge 3 for more formal occasions.

2. Charging and Battery Life

Next, on this guide on the Fitbit Charge 2 vs Fitbit Charge 3, let’s talk about battery life and charging. First, we have a question to ask. Which Fitbit Charge model has a better battery life? Let’s get a look at the Charge 2 and Charge 3’s battery lives.

Charge 2’s battery life can last up to 5 days, according to Fitbit. Meanwhile, Charge 3 has a battery life that can last up to 7 days. So, which one is the better Fitbit Charge device?

For their charger, both Fitbit Charge models use a proprietary charging cable. If you already have a Fitbit Charge 2, you don’t need to worry about losing the Fitbit charger. You can use the same charger of your Fitbit Charge 3 to bring your Fitbit tracker back to life.

3. Tracker Screen

Giving a closer look at the Fitbit Charge 3 specs will give you an idea about its improvements from the Charge 2. One of these improvements on the fitness tracker includes the OLED touch screen. If you compare them side to side, you’ll see that the Charge 3 has a touchscreen that’s 40% larger the Charge 2.

Also, Charge 3 uses Corning Gorilla Glass 3 for its display. This means, as an OLED touchscreen and display, it’s extra durable. Plus, the glass material means you cut the risk of getting scratches on your fitness tracker.

Also, as a note, the touch sensitivity of the Charge 3’s screen may be too sensitive or not at all. This is a problem we also see with the Garmin Vivosmart 4.

4. Features

We can’t miss discussing the features of Charge 2 and Charge 3. Many of the features of Fitbit Charge 3 are also available in Charge 2. Some got improved while others remain as they are in the Charge 2.

For example, Charge 3 comes with a Fitbit companion app for socializing with other Fitbit users. It lets you meet and add friends and compete in a leader board. It also lets you join or create fitness challenges.

If you want to find a community with like-minded people, get on Fitbit Groups. The Fitbit app also offers Fitbit’s Adventures. Here, you can still do daily physical activity with the fun of joining immersive adventures.

Some of Charge 3’s improved features include wellness features. Guided Breathing Sessions and Reminders to Move are available on both trackers. They also have the Hourly Activity history on the Fitbit app, giving you a calorie counter watch.

However, Charge 3 makes the deal sweeter for women. Now, you can track periods, record symptoms, and see predictions for your ovulation. That’s not all the Charge 3 can do.

Its Smart Features give you more access to various Android phone apps and commands. Also, Charge 3 has an enhanced heart rate tracking technology now. Fitbit claims this can take more accurate measurements of fitness statistics.

If you’re a Charge 2 owner, you know the device is one of the best sleep trackers in the market. Charge 3 comes with the experimental Sleep Score beta program. This is a more in-depth sleep tracker that gives you new information like advanced heart rate tracking.

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Final Thoughts

If we look at the devices as a whole, the better wristband health monitor is Charge 3. Its newer features have more versatility and functionality. If you have trouble with it, you can always look up Fitbit Charge 3 instructions online or go to the Fitbit site.

It’s a true upgrade in all the best ways. One of its biggest pluses is that it’s waterproof, too. On sites like Mobile Mob, you can get even Fitbit Charge 3 bands and straps.

If you want to know more about Fitbit Charge 3 from customers, look up Fitbit customer service reviews. Depending on where you get your Charge 2 and Charge 3, the prices will vary. The typical market price of Charge 3 is $149.95 or $169.95 if you want the Charge 3 Special Edition.

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Upgrading Your Fitbit Charge Fitness Tracker

Indeed, there aren’t huge changes in the general design of the Fitbit Charge 3 compared to its predecessor. However, these changes are enough to make the Fitbit Charge 3 feel like a true upgrade. Plus, these little tweaks make it one of the best fitness trackers for daily use.

Don’t hesitate to keep this comparison guide on the latest Fitbit Charge models always on hand. I hope this helped you decide on whether you should upgrade your Fitbit fitness tracker.

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• Tracks your steps
• Measures your heart rate
• Tracks your heart rate and duration of your workout
• Vibrating alarm
• Weather updates
• Phone notifications and find my band/device
• Gps tracking of cycling/walking/running

One cool new feature of the band, is that it’s waterproof! This is one of the main reasons I went for Mi band 3 as I can now swim with it and not worry about always having to take it off if I have to shower or go swimming.

I put together a short video below, just showing some of the features of the Mi band 3 and to give you an idea of the look and feel of it. 

A look at the Xiaomi Mi 8 and specifically its Camera:

I also got my hands on the Xiaomi Mi8 smartphone, which is powerful smartphone. I specifically bought it for its camera and to be able to video in higher frame rates than I was able to previously (on my dslr I can only go up to 60 frames per second).

If you’re interested to see what it can do check out the video below, which shows a few sample pictures and videos I took with it as well as what sort of video settings you can expect and use on it.

To use these images or get more checkout unsplash!

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When it comes to fitness apps and devices that monitor your heart rate, steps and calories burned etc, I have never been one to really track these things. The only thing I have tracked religiously was my diet calories when trying to lean down for a bodybuilding competition. Other than that I have a rough idea of how much to eat and how many calories certain foods contain but that is as far as I go now.

Anyway, I was lucky enough to try out one of these cool devices, the Garmin Vivofit 3. It is quite a nifty little device and also functions as a time piece aka a watch :p (I have seen some of these kinds of devices where they have no interface which I don’t really like).

 

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“The vívofit 3  is an activity tracker that features a backlit display, which shows steps, calories, distance, intensity minutes and time of day. The vívofit 3 includes new features such as Move IQ, auto activity detection and intensity minutes. Automatically capturing activities such as walking, running, biking, swimming and elliptical training.”

“Its move bar with audible alerts reminds users when they have been inactive too long. A couple minutes of activity will reset the move bar, keeping users motivated to stay continuously active during their day which can help counter the health risks associated with a sedentary lifestyle. Water resistant to 50 meters and featuring a user replaceable battery that lasts up to one year, users rarely ever have to take off their vívofit 3.”

Next I take a look at the functions that the vivofit can perform as well as a few pros and cons of it.

The look and feel:

The vivofit has a cool, stylish and very lightweight design. You can purchase other straps for it depending on how fashionable you would like it to be. It is also very simple with only one button below the screen that cycles through the various interfaces. The backlit display shows steps, goal steps left, calories, distance walked/run, intensity minutes, time of day and the date. Each interface is shown with the press of the button.

The app

The Garmin App comes with a whole lot of cool features and it is quite easy to use. The interface may look overwhelming to some, but after the first glance it is easy to see what’s going on and you eventually realise how nice and simple it is.

The app shows a breakdown of each of the various activities that the Vivofit 3 tracks, such as your steps taken, sleep time (deep sleep, light sleep), calories burned and more. To use the app you just download it, sign up and log in. Once in you will need to turn your blue tooth on and then hold down the button on the Vivofit 3 until it says ‘sync’. Release the button and it will start to sync with the app and all your data will load into the app. After that you can switch off the blue tooth on your phone, and repeat the process when you want to sync all your data and see your progress.

• Price: R1899.00

Pro’s

• The vivofit 3 is quite accurate when it comes to monitoring the activities such as sleep and steps for example.
• It does help somewhat with motivation, and helps to keep you aware of what you are doing. For instance, when you see how many steps you have done in a day it becomes psychological in that you want to do more or see how you do each day. The down side is that it may wear off as time goes on, like a new toy.
• The vivofit 3 alerts you when you have been sitting for a while. It helps you to get up and move around or walk around a bit.

• I like that it has the time and date, so it also functions as a watch with a stop watch, and a nice lightweight watch with a very comfortable strap.
• It has an easy fasten clip, not clunky and big. Lightweight and simple, and the whole watch is a comfortable fit.
• The vivofit 3 is waterproof, so you literally never have to take it off.
• It monitors a wide array of activitities, from swimming, to steps, to sleep, to calories.
• You don’t have to keep it connected to your phone via bluetoooth 24/7. You can connect and sync it every so often, then all the data is loaded onto into the app.
• 1 year battery life.
• The app interface is simple yet detailed. You can check an overview of each activity at a glance which is pretty cool without having to delve into a whole lot of details.

Con’s

• These fitness devices are quite pricey.
• Though they do provide you with a tonne of great information about you and your activities, it really means nothing if you do not actually make use of all that information. Some people may also not really know how to use all that information.

Ultimately it really depends on what you want to do and achieve. If you are following a strict diet and want to lose weight, thus you would like to track all your activity and calories in a day, it can be a great tool to help you with that. If you are not too worried about that sort of thing, it can be great info for you to know, but not really necessary for you to spend the money on it.

The Vivofit 3 itself is pretty cool and functions extremely well, so there is no downside to the device, it is more on what you want to do with it and the information that it provides.

• For more information on more of Garmin’s products check out their website: garmin.co.za or view it on Amazon for $99.99.

Photography by:

• Dancing Saint Pictures
• McTavish

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