Adaptive Controls
Social
Tech
Devices made specifically for social networking signify a true social media addiction.
Trend
What is the Social Tech trend?
Social Tech: Most mobile phones give the option to connect to social media; however, there is an increasing demand for devices made specifically for social media use. It seems what was once considered an addiction to communication is actually an addiction to the act of social media, as telecommunication devices no longer suffice. Essentially, lengthy phone conversations seem unnecessary to a consumer who is accustomed to communicating in 140-character snippets.
Trend themes
Themes within the Social Tech trend
Three behaviours holding the trend togetherDevice-specific social media interfaces
Consumers are demanding devices specifically tailored for social media communication, rather than traditional telecommunication devices.
Hotkey peripherals for social networking
Peripherals like the S.N.A.K Keyboard and Flashpoint iBoard offer hotkeys and shortcuts for commonly used social media functions, allowing for efficient and seamless online communication.
Robotic pets as virtual companions
While those who can't commit to a real pet can turn to electronic pets like the Karotz Smart Rabbit, which is not only cute but also high-tech and enables social media update alerts, mp3 playing and webcam functions.
Industry implications
What the Social Tech trend means for industry
Where the trend changes the playbookConsumer Electronics
Consumer electronics companies can offer device-specific social media interfaces and peripherals optimized for social networking.
Robotics
Robotic pet manufacturers can innovate on products that could function both as virtual companions and social media alerts.
Software Development
Software developers can create more efficient and intuitive social media platforms and interfaces that can operate across multiple devices and operating systems.
Trend signals
Trend signals for Social Tech
Trend score 4.5 out of 10, from popularity 68%, activity 60%, freshness 8%.
- Gen Alpha
- Gen Z
- Millennial
- Gen X (not a primary audience)
- Boomer (not a primary audience)
Evidence
Examples of the Social Tech trend
6 featured examples from May 26, 2010 to Mar 10, 2011Touchscreen Tech Bracelets
The Nextep Computer Concept by Hiromi Kiriki
The flexible OLED screens trend presents disruptive innovation opportunities in the electronics industry by creating flexible and wearable devices with touchscreen capabilities.
Social Media Shortcuts
The Flashpoint iBoard Apple Bluetooth Keyboard is Certainly Convenient
The growing market for consumer electronics, including mobile devices, accessories, and wearables, presents significant opportunities for innovation and growth.
Social Networking Typing Tools
The Facebook S.N.A.K. Keyboard is Enhanced with Hotkeys
The development of specialized keyboards and typing tools creates opportunities for innovation in computer peripheral industry.
Instant Messaging Keyboards
The Emoticon Keyboard Bacjca Lets You Send a Smile in Seconds
Companies within the technology industry can benefit from developing more intuitive and personalized keyboards to enhance user experience.
Cute Electronic Bunnies
Make the Karotz Smart Rabbit Your Robotic Pet
Disruptive innovation opportunity: Explore new market opportunities for consumer electronics by creating innovative products like the Karotz Smart Rabbit.
Social Networking Phones
The HTC Chacha and Salsa Fulfill all your Networking Needs
The production of smartphones specifically designed for social networking creates a niche market within the smartphone industry.