Electronic devices that are worn on the body or clothes. The first wearables were body-worn computers in the military, followed by consumer products such as MP3 players strapped to the arm and fitness devices that compute distance and heart rate. Smartwatches, heads-up augmented reality displays, healthcare monitors and smart clothing are wearable technology products. Wearable electronics is expected to be a growth industry. Contrast with
hearables. See
augmented reality,
biometrics,
POV camera,
fitness tracker,
smart clothes,
body-worn computer and
smartwatch.
Fitbit Fitness Tracker
Fitness trackers tend to be the most widely used wearable device. This Alta HR unit from Fitbit tracks heart rate, activity, sleep and exercise. (Image courtesy of Fitbit, Inc.)