Smart wear shipments will break 300 million units this year
The wearable device market is showing strong signs of growth, driven by increasing consumer demand and technological advancements. According to data from several market research firms, global shipments of wearables reached 26.3 million units in the second quarter of 2017, marking a 10.3% year-over-year increase. Gartner predicts that this year’s total shipments will hit 310 million units, reflecting a 16.7% rise compared to the previous year, with the market size expected to reach $30.5 billion.
As consumers upgrade their spending habits and as technologies like AI, VR, and AR become more mainstream, wearable devices have evolved from simple single-function tools into multifunctional, highly portable gadgets. In the future, these devices are expected to play a critical role in biometrics, security, and digital payments. Moreover, the market is anticipated to diversify further, with new categories such as smart clothing, wearables for health monitoring, and even smart glasses gaining traction.
One of the most notable trends is the rapid growth of children's smartwatches. Gartner estimates that by 2021, children's smartwatches will account for 30% of total wearable shipments. These devices are particularly appealing to parents who prefer not to give young children smartphones but still want to keep them connected. At the same time, traditional luxury smartwatches are expected to capture 25% of the market, leveraging brand appeal to attract younger users.
In the first quarter of 2017, China saw a significant surge in wearable device shipments, with 10.35 million units sold. Among these, children's smartwatches accounted for 3.51 million units, a 64.9% year-on-year increase. Notably, 360’s children’s smartwatches saw an impressive 185% sales growth during the same period, becoming a top seller in major online platforms.
Market research firm IDC reported that while entry-level wearables (like basic fitness trackers) experienced a slight decline, smartwatches—such as the Apple Watch and Android Wear devices—saw a 60.9% increase in shipments. This trend highlights the growing preference for more advanced, feature-rich devices.
Looking ahead, smart wearables are set to evolve in multiple directions. Health and fitness remain central, but features like biometric tracking, real-time health monitoring, and even AI-driven coaching are becoming standard. Companies like Fitbit and Samsung are pushing the boundaries with products like the Fitbit Ionic and Gear Sport, which offer enhanced health tracking and seamless integration with daily life.
Experts believe that the next phase of wearable development will be driven by AI, VR, and AR, making these devices integral to the digital ecosystem. With continued improvements in biosensing, connectivity, and user experience, wearable technology is expected to become a daily necessity for many.
Despite the promising outlook, challenges remain. Product design and functionality must continue to improve, with a focus on aesthetics and usability. Additionally, information security remains a key concern, as wearable devices collect and transmit sensitive personal data. Manufacturers, regulators, and users must all play a role in ensuring a secure and trustworthy environment for smart wearables.
With steady growth, innovation, and increased awareness, the wearable device market is well-positioned to shape the future of personal technology. As more people adopt these devices, the industry will continue to expand, offering new possibilities for health, communication, and lifestyle enhancement.
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