Wearable Tech Market Looks to Apple Watch


Apple released its first wearable tech product, the Apple Watch, late last month. Although the device is proving to be very popular, many people are still confused as to what unique benefits the smartwatch brings to the table.

Currently, all the applications for the device are extensions of iPhone apps, instead of originally designed apps specific to the Apple Watch. Original apps are expected to be released later this year. In the meantime, thanks to third-party apps, consumers can begin to use this technology in ways that transcend its standard features.

According to the report research firm IHS, the fate of the smartwatch market depends on the success or failure of the Apple Watch.

“Should Apple stumble with its foray into smartwatches, the smartwatch market will suffer similarly. Smartwatches could then follow the fate of Google Glass. Without Apple and its marketing strength, the smartwatch category needs greater marketing spend from other smartwatch makers to overcome damage to consumer perceptions.”

IHS is expecting a positive outcome for Apple’s new smartwatch, predicting 19 million units to be shipped this year. This would account for a 56 percent share of the smartwatch market. Furthermore, the research firm is anticipating smartwatch shipments to increase from 3.6 million units in 2014, to a whopping 101 million units in 2020.

Here at Echo, we’re extremely excited about what the Apple Watch has to offer to the industry of wearable tech; we’re already designing two apps for the Apple Watch. One will be a SunRail app that will work much like the Orlando Transit app we developed to help users check the SunRail schedule; the other will allow you to track your fitness.

“2015 is the year when wearable technology becomes a regular part of our lives,” said Echo CEO, Carlos Carbonell, at the first Wearable Tech Meetup of 2015. For most people, the Apple Watch will be the first major wearable technology they purchase. This is just the beginning of an exciting period in technology and for us here at Echo!