A recent consumer study conducted by Parks Associates reveals that nearly 50% of U.S. internet households now own and actively use wearable devices, underscoring the growing demand for health and safety features in these products. 

The study, Wearables: Advances in Health and Safety, surveyed 8,000 U.S. internet households and provies insights into consumer behavior surrounding smartwatches and other emerging technologies like smart rings.

Kristen Hanich, research director at Parks Associates, commented on the trends shaping the wearables market, noting that while purchase intentions surged during the COVID-19 pandemic, they have since leveled off as the urgency for health monitoring diminished post-pandemic. 

“Success for these devices goes beyond the initial sale,” Hanich said. “As consumers attach more services to their wearables, such as safety monitoring or health coaching, their satisfaction grows. The connection between the owner and the device strengthens as new services become available.”

From the Athletech News article, "Nearly Half of U.S. Households Own and Use Wearable Devices"