Wearable Computer

What does Wearable Computer mean?

A wearable computer is a computer system that is incorporated into items of clothing or worn on the body as an accessory. It combines traditional computing capabilities with the convenience and mobility of a wearable device. Wearable computers can range from simple devices like fitness trackers to sophisticated systems capable of running complex applications. They typically feature small, lightweight designs, wireless connectivity, and sensors that collect data and interact with the user. Wearable computers have gained significant popularity in recent years due to advancements in miniaturization, wireless technologies, and user-friendly interfaces.

Applications

Wearable computers have a wide range of applications across various industries and personal use cases. Some key applications include:

• Healthcare: Wearable devices such as fitness trackers, smartwatches, and medical implants monitor health metrics, track activity levels, and provide early detection of potential health issues.
• Fitness and Sports: Wearable computers help athletes and fitness enthusiasts track performance, monitor progress, and optimize training. They provide insights into distance covered, calories burned, and heart rate.
• Communication and Navigation: Smartwatches and other wearable devices with built-in GPS and communication capabilities allow users to make calls, send messages, and navigate hands-free.
• Entertainment and Gaming: Wearable computers can enhance gaming experiences with immersive Augmented Reality and virtual reality capabilities. They also provide wearable displays for entertainment purposes.
• Industrial and Enterprise: Wearable computers in industrial settings provide hands-free access to information, facilitate data collection, and enhance worker productivity. They are used in fields such as manufacturing, logistics, and Field service.

History

The concept of wearable computers has been around for several decades. Early pioneers in the field include:

• 1961: Steve Russel demonstrates a Prototype wearable computer called “Dataglove” at MIT.
• 1970s: Engineers at IBM Research develop the IBM SCAMP, a wearable prototype device worn on the back.
• 1980s: Epson releases the Epson HX-20, one of the first commercially available wearable computers.
• 1994: Thad Starner and Steve Mann introduce the concept of “Wearable Computing” at the IEEE Computer Society’s International Symposium on Wearable Computing.

In the early 2000s, the development of smartphones and advancements in wireless technologies accelerated the growth of wearable computers. The introduction of devices like the Google Glass in 2012 further popularized the concept. Today, wearable computers are an integral part of the technology landscape, with continued innovation and new applications emerging constantly.