Smartwatch ownership may start to hit some
respectable numbers.
Nine percent of U.S. adults own a smartwatch, an increase of almost 2% from just six months ago.
However, 60% smartwatch ownership growth is projected by the end
of next year, according to a new projection.
The study comprised a survey of 5,000 U.S. adults on a panel conducted by NPD Group.
The growth will be driven by new product introductions
from market leaders, according to NPD.
The forecasted growth will result in nearly 15% of U.S. adults owning a smartwatch by 2019. New features and capabilities are key differentiators for
smartwatches, adding to the projected growth.
The highest smartwatch uses are receiving notifications, tracking activities and getting news updates, based on the survey. Here’s the
percentage of smartwatch owners who use each function daily:
- 54% -- Notifications, alerts
- 45% -- Activity tracker
- 31% -- News updates
- 26% -- Phone
calls
- 25% -- Alarm clock
- 25% -- Email
- 21% -- Viewing photos, video
- 19% -- GPS, navigation
- 18% -- Remote control for music
- 17% -- Home
automation
- 15% -- Control for TV, video
While 13% of millennials have smartwatches, fewer than 9% of the overall market do. Males account for 60% ownership and smartwatch
ownership is highest among the lowest income category, those making less than $45,000 a year.
With only 17% using their device for home automation and 15% for controlling a TV, the smartwatch
is a great distance from replacing the smartphone as a hub for smart homes.