Wearable technology is the next big thing, and tech-savvy college students will want to be in-the-know about these new and just launching consumer devices. From sleep monitors to fitness trackers to GPS-enabled shoes, there are some truly incredible wearables now available for consumers to purchase. Here are my top ten picks for back to school:
This Bluetooth headset is the perfect companion for all-night study sessions. Vigo uses an infrared sensor and accelerometer to track patterns in your blinks and movements to learn when you’re the most alert and when you need a break. The device can even give you gentle nudges to keep you alert when you need to be in the form of a soft pulsing vibration, a discrete LED light, or even your favorite pump-up song! The Vigo app will also log and track your alertness data and provide you with visualizations and reports. It’s $79 and ships out this October.
These amazing fitness trainers have pressure and motion sensors built in along with Bluetooth accelerometers. The sensors work with the Nike+ Training app that offers Beginner, Intermediate and Advanced daily or weekly drills and workouts and the Nike+ Running app that tracks your jogging. You can share your progress and get ranked on the Nike+ website. What I love most about these trainers is that the sensors detect your weight distribution when you’re doing the exercises and will correct you if you’re doing a position or exercise the wrong way, so they are in essence just like having a robotic personal trainer! They are $110 and are available in a variety of colors.
This great-looking, 5 ATM water resistant watch can hold up to 8 apps at a time, displays texts and notifications from your phone, and will even pay for your latte at Starbucks! The new and improved version of the Pebble smartwatch can control the music on your phone, track your fitness workout, and display your grocery lists. You can change the watchface by downloading other designs and choose from thousands of apps in the official Pebble app store. The Steel watch is $249 and is shipping now.
This fashionable stainless steel smart ring sports an LED display on the front that delivers notifications from your phone. Similar to a smart watch, this wearabe enables you to make phone calls, screen your calls, receive text notifications, and control the music and the camera on your phone like a remote. It’s waterproof, has a 24 hour battery life and is currently available for $175.
The Ducere Tech startup has created GPS-enabled “smart shoes” that literally mean “take me there” in Hindi. These amazing shoes work via Bluetooth that connects to your phone. You just tell the app (for Android or iOS devices) your detisnation and they will vibrate the directions for you. The best part is that if you like your current sneakers/shoes, you can just buy the insoles! They range from $100-$150 and are available in red and black. Perfect for those students who have trouble finding their way back to their dorm!! They won’t ship until the spring semester, but still made this list due to their uniqueness and affordability.
Read the full post 10 Best Wearable Tech Devices for Back to School on OEDB.org.
