New mobile devices work against the average smartphone aesthetic
Implications - The rise of smart watches has ushered in an era of connected mobile devices that staunchly go against the grain of typical smartphone design. Oftentimes, this design shift works to improve the convenience factor. This is often the case with wearables. However, it can also be said that this shift toward unconventional design signifies the next step of tech as a status symbol.
Workshop Question - Describe a new product or addition to your business's platform that could be improved with high-tech strategies.
Trend Themes
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Design Shift for Wearables — The rise of unconventional design in wearables improves the convenience factor and replaces typical smartphone usage for niche activities such as skiing and biking.
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Anti-smartphone Movement — Circular smartphones such as the Runcible by Monohm, and the eyeHand projection smartphone cater to the maker culture and diverge from the constantly distracted consumer, appealing to the future of a more focused and mindful user.
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Stand-alone Smart Devices — The trend of replacing existing phones with 'all-in-one' devices such as the xWatch and Glovdi position the future of mobile devices in the realm of versatility and accessibility, with the opportunity to make these devices available at lower price points and to a wider market.
Industry Implications
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Wearable Technology — Opportunities to rethink design and expand into niche activities such as skiing and biking.
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Mobile Devices — The anti-smartphone movement and the trend of stand-alone smart devices give business professionals opportunities to focus on better user experiences and expand the market with versatile and practical devices.
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Projection Technology — The eyeHand projection smartphone and wearable gadgets such as smart gloves present disruptive innovation opportunities in the wearables and mobile device industries by reimagining how users interact with technology.
