You may have already considered a multi-platform app for your revolutionary product. Wearable app development is unlikely to have crossed your mind.
Suppose your smart glasses (google glasses), fitness trackers or smartwatches dont reach your customers in their everyday lives.
In that case, they are likely to go with your competitor. Wearable app development is a must.
This article will answer all your questions about the development process for wearable apps, the cost involved in developing a wearable application, and the best way to create your first wearable application.
Lets start by looking at the market status of wearable technologies and apps.
Considerations for Sports and Healthcare: Software Solutions for Wearables
Wearable Technology is one of the fastest-growing areas for the Sports and Health industries. It predicts that the global number of wearable connected devices will reach over 1.1 billion by 2023.
Wearable devices include wearables like heart monitors, not just wristwear such as smartwatches or fitness trackers. These smart collars track your pets activities and smartwatches.
What are the key factors to consider when planning to create a wearable software solution in Sports & Healthcare?
- Connectivity: Wearables keep and easily share data across different channels and devices that provide flexible access to necessary information. You should pay attention to the protocol if your application will collect data from a connected device. Bluetooth is the protocol of choice today. Its popular, reliable and easy to use. This solution, with high energy consumption, allows for secure data transfer. Most wearable devices are powered by batteries rather than static power, so that you will need low-power components. The Bluetooth Low Energy Standard (BLE), which is a solution to help reduce energy consumption, can be used.
- Security and Privacy: Wearables are capable of collecting and transferring different types of data. To protect users privacy, make sure that wearable devices and their companion software use reliable communication protocols over networks to transmit sensitive data. If your software was designed to handle medical data, it must also comply with the HL7 standards for transmitting health information. The HL7 standard allows you to easily and quickly share your medical data with other healthcare providers.
- Integration: Wearable software is used widely for remote care. Doctors can, for example, use your application to view real-time medical data from a wearable device in the hospital management system. This means its important that your system is easily integrated into healthcare enterprises and meets DICOM and Hl7 standards. You will improve interoperability and make it easier for your system to be implemented.
- Design: Wearables have a convenience associated with them that you should reflect in your softwares UI and user experience. Your design should be simple and human-centered. Begin with audience research to meet your users specific needs. When designing an eHealth platform, it is important to understand the context of your users emotions and their context. Consider the load time, navigation, and push notifications.
- Scalability: Apps for wearables are flexible and should also be flexible regarding functionality and enhancements. Wearable apps are often less powerful than classic mobile applications and may have fewer features. Wearables and their software can provide unique features thanks to their specific abilities.
Wearable Technology
Wearable technologies are a growing business that has the potential to improve healthcare, personal care and hospital treatments.
The Exposit Team has extensive expertise in developing wearable software across Sports & Healthcare. Our software solutions will help you to get the most out of wearable technologies by meeting your needs and those of your users.
Contact us today to discuss your ideas if youre interested in creating a wearable application that uses cutting-edge technology.
Wearable App Development Market Analysis
- Already, the number of wearable connected devices has surpassed 1 billion.
- According to recent studies, it is estimated that the market for wearable technologies will reach 265.4 billion dollars by 2026. This growth rate of 18% between 2021 and 2026.
- The total wearables are expected to exceed 344 million by 2022 and 650,000,000 by 2027.
- According to estimates, the 4G smartwatch will dominate in shipping in 2022 with a penetration of around 5%, whereas 5G is expected in 2023 with an extremely low penetration of 0.3%.
According to these statistics, the wearable app development market is expected to grow at a high rate in industrial and enterprise applications.
Wearable device app development can create a successful experience for customers, regardless of whether they are new to the digital world or looking to extend their existing digital presence.
Lets now talk about the differences between mobile and wearable apps.
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What is the Difference Between Wearable App Development and Standard Mobile App Development
Wearable apps are designed to work with wearable devices like smartwatches, fitness trackers, smart glasses, etc., to collect real-time information via bluetooth or WiFi.
Apps for wearable technology are different from regular mobile apps. They have a custom-made screen and hardware.
What else is there? What else?
Despite the limited user interaction, Wearable app development is an exciting market for companies looking to engage with customers personally.
Lets look at the wearable devices and apps available on the market now that a large user base relies on these on-demand solutions.
Wearable Apps and Devices on Demand
Wearable apps are highly user-centric and engaging for companies who want to customize customer experiences. Every year, new wearable app trends emerge to help shape technological evolution in more effective and sophisticated ways.
Here is an extensive list of popular wearable devices and apps that never go out of fashion or use.
1. Smartwatches
It predicts that smartwatches will be the most common wearable devices by 2025, with over 253 million expected. Wearable apps can access pedometers and other features such as notifications, fitness trackers, etc.
Smartwatches have sensor-related functions which enhance user experience. They also make the app that goes with it innovative and feature-rich.
Apple Watch is a good example of iOS app development for wearable devices.
Smartwatches:
- Heart rate monitor
- Track your calories and activities
- SpO2 Monitoring
- App ECG and ECG function
2. Smart Eyewear
Wearable devices such as smart glasses and eyewear that incorporate data related to the objects the users see are set to become the new standard for wearable technologies.
Smart glasses can collect data from internal and external sensors and wireless technologies like Bluetooth, GPS and WiFi.
Smart eyewear features:
- Information assessing
- Visual tracking
- Storage and Communication of Data
3. FitBands
Fitbits, called fitness bands, are ideal for tracking daily activities and movements. Wearable apps collect all data and convert it into information such as sleep quality, daily activities, and routines.
Fitbits have a platform that allows users to create wearable apps. This helps them set goals, monitor their health, connect with friends, and modify the interface of their devices.
Fitbit features:
- Health Metric
- The rate of breathing
- Oxygen saturation and more
4. Head Mounted Displays
Wearable apps are a great way to develop wearable displays. AR/VR Glasses are the best example of this. These glasses can monitor the virtual environment and give users information.
Also, check out the wearables and AR/VR trend predictions.
Other wearable devices and apps, like implantable clothing and smart clothes, are less popular.
The healthcare industry is a major player in wearable apps. Patients can track glucose levels using glucose monitors, for example.
Diagnostic trackers can be used to detect muscle activity, body temperature, chronic disease, etc.
Apps and custom wearable devices are not limited to the healthcare industry. See what benefits app development can bring to other industries.
The Most Promising Industry to Develop Wearable Apps and Devices
Wearable devices and apps have been integrated into different industrial app scenarios that shape enterprise app development.
View the industries that are leveraging the advantages of wearables and apps.
Wearable technologies are becoming increasingly popular in various sectors.
Game
Wearables that enhance AI have increased user engagement.
Since the introduction of VR, AI-driven gaming has become more popular. Wearables and gaming often work in tandem to give the audience a disrupted AI-driven experience.
Sports and Fitness
Wearable AI devices mounted on the body can provide users with complete information about their fitness using voice assistants or real-time insight.
Biosensors are also included in Bluetooth devices with AI capabilities, such as fitness trackers. The biosensors can detect motion, touch, movement, distance, elevation and heart rate.
Education
AR/VR, wearables, and other technologies have greatly improved virtual learning. Google Glass, for example, helps with data and information on objects and detailed anatomy.
The wearables are also extremely helpful in exploring virtual dimensions and studying small molecules for research.
Retail and Fintech
Apps that support wearables are now synchronized with wearables like jackets and hand gloves. These wearables were specifically designed to protect the wearer or user.
Fintech, insurance and smartwatches are also heavily utilizing wearable app development. Smartwatches support NFC sensors for contactless payment.
For example, Apple Pay and Google Pay are the two most popular wearable payment applications.
Healthcare
Wearable app development for healthcare allows patients to monitor their health at home. Healthcare uses wearable devices and apps such as glucose monitors (insulin pumps), smart bands, diagnostic chips, etc.
In addition to these apps, digital businesses that support social media, navigation and map services, etc., can also benefit from Wearable App Development Solutions.
Wearable AI: Implementation in the Digital World is another useful resource. Wearable applications are poised to revolutionize the world.
Lets get straight to it and see how you can start with your wearable business app by designing, planning and developing.
How to Start Planning Your Wearable App
Wearable electronics is a fascinating and frustrating technology for beginners. Before building your wearable app, consider several things other than coding.
Planning ideas include brainstorming and deciding on the kind of app youd like to create, the components you want to use, etc.
Discuss and learn how to plan for a smooth execution properly.
1. Brainstorming
You need to have a project in mind, an outline, or a rough plan. Start by creating a rough sketch of the app, including what it will do, its look, and all you want to include.
You can use your creativity and imagination to place the ideas here. For example, you could make a list with the features required for a wearable application or a list that shows the most popular users of that feature.
2. Collecting Data
Apps for wearable devices use user data to provide better functionality and accurate information. To provide value for users of wearable devices, the data collected by app sensors must be contextualized.
The collected data may not be accurate or distorted if the user does not understand the context.
To get precise data, it is important to develop app sensors compatible with Android wearable apps, iOS smartwatches, and many other devices.
3. Project Planning Checklist
Create a list of specific questions to ask yourself as you declare the details of your project. Consider adding additional questions, such as whether the circuit should be transparent, the intended user and the functionalities that will be included.
Asking questions will give you a better idea of the project, its development process, and the type of device to be created.
If the app is for iOS or Android, for example, smartwatches on iOS, smartwatches with Android, web-based apps for wearable devices, etc.
Check out our complete checklist for mobile app development.
After you have completed your checklist, your only remaining question is: "How to develop and design your wearable application?"
Factors to Consider When Developing a Wearable Application
You need to improve your layout sketch to make it more understandable. During this phase, you will also be able to identify any design flaws.
You can then make any necessary adjustments before you begin the development of your app. The final sketch is also a good guide to ensure the wearable application has all the finalized features.
1. App Complexity
The computing power of a smartphone, for example, has been optimized to handle real-time requirements. A wearable is designed to handle direct connections, regardless of the form.
When creating a wearable app, it is important to consider the inherent contrasts. It would help to decide which apps you want to include and which you dont.
2. Users Base
Apps will be created differently for wearables and smartphones, as the users are different. Apps are developed for specific demographics, so it is crucial to know who is developing them, how they will be used, and any necessary adjustments.
3. The Security of Your Own Home
Wearables and smartphones both collect data. Wearables collect data that is very sensitive, such as location information, health details, preferences, and habits.
Wearable app developers must take great care to protect their users privacy and maintain security when handling that data.
4. The Integration of Technology
Wearable apps have affected brands, consumers and developers. Wearable app development empowers businesses to provide their employees with intuitive apps that seamlessly integrate with connected devices.
This allows us to operate multiple applications by simply touching our fingers.
To ensure that integration is successful, the wearable app designer must first determine which data to run a wearable and use an SoC (system on a chip) to interface natively with sensors and actuators.
API allows data to be shared seamlessly between wearables and applications. This image shows the functional integration of MCU with wearable devices.
5. Prototyping
Having a prototype before investing time in the design is essential. This will help you understand your thoughts and the designs purpose or element.
Considering how the app interacts with users and presents data is important. The app should be simple and easy to use.
A lot of data can lead to confusion, leading to a poor user experience. Prototyping before the launch and development is the most effective way to ensure a positive user experience.
These devices present a set of unique design challenges. These devices have several restrictions, including a smaller display, less information density and limited battery life.
This is why their design needs to be different.
How to Design Your Wearable App?
Many options are available (including watches, wristbands, glasses and rings), but more will be coming. Your app must be designed to fit seamlessly into various wearable devices.
This is an in-depth look at the approach to wearable application development.
1. Glanceability
The wearable design is destined to catch the eye. For those unfamiliar with the term, it refers to limited interaction information.
Fitness trackers, which rely heavily on light to communicate what is happening, are a great example.
2. Context
Context is the foundation of any design. It should be utilized to deliver specific information within the shortest time.
Youre designing context-aware apps when you create a wearable device. These devices have sensors.
3. User Interface
When designing one, it is crucial to incorporate a wearable into the users existing devices. Wearable apps should also be developed with other devices in mind and the user interface.
A smartwatchs blood pressure and heart-health app could be used to collect information and data. Still, review and analysis can be done through a smartphone.
What is the Cost of Developing a Wearable App?
You will need to consider several factors to answer the question of how much it costs to create a wearable application.
The cost of developing a wearable device or app can range from $50,000 to $250,000, depending on the project.
The budget list is based on some factors, as we do not want to focus only on one type of app but rather estimate the overall cost of developing a wearable application.
The final price of developing a wearable application is determined by factors such as the wearable features, wearable tech stack, the company that develops wearable devices, the complexity of the wearable apps, etc.
Costs increase with increasing complexity and functionality. Experts recommend hiring a wearable app agency for a more efficient development process and to overcome all the technical challenges.
The Challenges of Developing Wearable Apps
Developing wearable apps is challenging, even though they have many useful features. Lets look at some of the challenges facing wearable application developers.
1. Build the Use Case
Start by creating a list with questions relevant to wearables. This will assist you in discovering the finest solutions and available wearable hardware, such as APIs/SDKs, development frameworks/platforms, and other successful mobile app development methods.
Developers face three fundamental challenges: What, When, and Why. After these three Ws are addressed, the concept and design processes will become simple.
Solution
Moving on to the design and conceptualization phase is easier after addressing these three things. Although it may seem difficult at first, this phase is essential.
The app must also have unique features and not be a copycat of an existing iOS or Android application.
2. Selecting the Right Platform API
A wearable application is not available for all platforms or each one. Several APIs and technologies are on the market, including those from Apple, Salesforce and Android.
Choosing the right platform for the job is important based on your requirements.
Solution
The end user will want a single application compatible with multiple devices and platforms. Choose the API most suitable for the niche apps.
App compatibility is the biggest barrier an app must overcome to succeed in the wearable revolution.
3. User Interface
The screen sizes of wearable electronic devices, such as phones and tablets, are smaller. It also means a different user interface.
It makes UX designing for wearable applications a challenging task for developers. The process involves several factors, such as display sizes, compatibility with icons and their size, platforms, and many other elements.
Solution
A smaller screen on wearables requires a new type of engagement from the user and a completely different strategy for development.
App developers must prioritize fast and seamless interactions, spoken instructions, and approaches to passively collecting data. The wearable does not usually have the space or need for straightforward navigation or flashy icons.
4. Fragmentation
The fragmentation of apps for wearables is an obstacle to their creation. Fragmentation results from the fact that most wearable apps are not cross-platform compatible.
The cost of developing a wearable application increases because of this problem. If the software is cross-platform, it will allow developers to reach a wider audience.
Solution
Avoiding fragmentation is the first and most crucial thing you can do. You should avoid using native platforms because they will restrict your audience.
Your app should be available across multiple platforms to reach a larger audience. Cross-platform compatibility reduces fragmentation and increases revenue.
5. Privacy and Data Security
As wearable tech is in the early stages of its development, security issues are expected. Wearable devices are not able to access the internet on their own.
They require third-party synchronization tools and functions to be able to communicate with apps running on Internet-enabled devices. A large number of wearable applications are affected by data breaches every day. Wearable app developers must pay close attention to privacy issues throughout the process.
Solution
A secure wearable device will help to retain customers, improve communication, and create long-term relationships.
App developers for wearable devices must use effective security measures to boost user confidence. Apps should include advanced security features to protect sensitive data. They could select refined privacy settings and choose clear communication to optimize their experience.
Regular security updates are also required for the software. Every day, experts in the industry perform successful and rapid adjustments.
Apps should be updated to reflect the most recent technology.
6. Tethering
Due to their smaller screen size and limited functionality, most wearables can only be used as connected devices.
Other devices access the functionality of the application. If the tablet or smartphone to which these devices are connected has a low battery or stops working, theyre worthless.
Solution
The developers must solve this issue until the technology is advanced enough to allow wearables to work independently.
The developers should consider how a worn-out smartphones battery will be affected when it leaves the Bluetooth range.
7. Features and Functionalities
Every Wearable App has a primary challenge and goal: "Ease-of-use and Mobility". Wearable tech developers must ensure that novice users can easily use the technology.
Solution
The most crucial stage before creation is to have a collection of features and functionality that add value for the end user.
The developers must understand and meet the users needs.
8. Battery Use and Memory Space
Battery and memory usage are two of the most critical aspects of any smart device. Users are constantly searching for apps that consume less memory and power.
This increases the chances of an application being deleted since no one wants to update their app. Small batteries are a problem for wearable devices, particularly small ones.
Solution
Develop an app which consumes power in a balanced way. Remove any unnecessary features from your wearable application.
The developer of a wearable app should optimize the code to consume less battery and memory and perform better.
9. Tests Extensive
Mobile solutions are geared towards the user, while organizations look for more efficient solutions. Performance is one of the key metrics determining an apps success for wearable devices.
This can only be determined by thorough testing. Dont skip the quality assurance process. Have you thought about what would happen if a connected device with wearables stopped working suddenly? This will lead to a loss of efficiency.
Solution
Remember that an app should be thoroughly tested before it is released for any wearable device. This will ensure it meets all the requirements and is compatible with other gadgets.
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Wrapping up
The development of wearable applications is time-consuming, difficult and rewarding. The wearable application development process requires extra care because the functionalities and features of each app are different.
App developers face several challenges when developing wearable applications. As platforms and devices evolve, developers must adapt.
The Wearable App Development Consulting Team of custom software developers has a team with experience in developing wearable apps.
They are adept at staying current, adopting the latest technologies and providing the results required for the clients objectives.
