Smartphone, be prepared to move over, because it looks like another mobile advertising darling is about to take over. In an insightful article, AdAge brought attention to the fact that many of the companies that we all know are love are venturing into wearable technology (aka: wearables).
From smart watches to wrist bands, and even glasses, businesses everywhere are pushing envelope in mobile technology by allowing users to integrate their smart devices into things that they can wear. Consumers on the other hand, can’t wait to get their hands on these devices. The demand is evidenced by the sheer number of people clamoring to fund or get on the waiting lists for such devices.
For instance, there’s the Pebble smart watch, a project that grew to be the most successful campaigns on Kickstarter. The project not only reached its goal, but it garnered over 10 million dollars in funding. (Now available at a Best Buy near you.)
Samsung recently entered the smart watch space by introducing GALAXY Gear, “a perfect companion device that further integrates the Samsung GALAXY experience into everyday life. Samsung GALAXY Gear combines smart device connectivity, tailored technological features, and stylish design as a single premium accessory.”
And let’s not forget Google Glass, the search giant’s innovative device that fuses mobile technology with eyewear.
Yes, it certainly appears that we’re at the cusp of a new age in mobile technology. These devices are redefining the concept of connectivity for users, and advertisers can’t help but take notice.
Evidently, being able to advertise on wearable devices puts brands in a very valuable position. With wearable technology, advertisers can seamlessly offer their sponsored messages to users.
We can see now that large enough companies can develop their own devices that they can offer to their users. Take note though that brands developing wearable tech devices aren’t limited to technology companies. Nike for instance, has Nike+ a sporty wristband that lets users track their activities, set goals, and improve performance.
But does this mean smaller advertisers have no place in the wearable technology department? Not at all. Of course, the specific method on how adverts will be displayed is yet to be determined, but we anticipate that wearables will provide all kinds of opportunities for advertisers–large and small ones alike.
That’s why companies looking for more innovative ways to reach their customers should certainly keep an eye on the wearable technology space to ensure that they’ll be able leverage it when the right time comes.