According to estimates by Fortune Business Insights, the global wearables sector is expected to reach $118.16 billion by 2028, driven by the increasing demand for wellness and preventive health technologies. For this reason, the wearable device market continues to be on the rise.
With technological advancements and increasing integration with mobile apps, in addition to monitoring vital signs and physical activities, the solution also promotes healthy habits through gamification and artificial intelligence.
Companies in the segment have been investing in experiences that go beyond simple step or heartbeat tracking. New apps offer personalized challenges, rewards, and even competitions among users to increase engagement and adherence to healthy habits.
"Gamification has proven to be a powerful tool to motivate users, making the monitoring experience more interactive and engaging," he explains.Rafael Franco, CEO yesAlphacode, a company specialized in the development of applications for the healthcare sector, fintechs, and delivery.
Gamification and artificial intelligence in user experience
The strategy, widely adopted in learning and productivity apps, has also become established in the world of wearables. Platforms like Fitbit and Strava use daily challenges, performance rankings, and digital rewards to encourage users to maintain an active routine. According to a study by the Health Enhancement Research Organization, users who participate in group challenges are 50% more likely to achieve their fitness goals.
Another factor driving this market is the use of artificial intelligence for analysis and personalization of data collected by wearables. Predictive models help identify behavior patterns and offer personalized suggestions, such as reminders for stretching or adjustments in workout intensity based on heart rate and user history. "Artificial intelligence enables a more strategic approach to health monitoring, making recommendations more accurate and efficient," highlights Franco.
New opportunities for companies and startups in the sector
The segment opens new opportunities for companies seeking to innovate in the sector. Large companies like Apple and Samsung are already investing in expanding health monitoring features, including sensors to measure blood oxygen levels and detect cardiac arrhythmias. Furthermore, startups have been investing in integrations with health plans and corporate wellness programs, creating solutions that help companies monitor and encourage healthy habits among their employees.
For Rafael Franco, the future of the sector lies in greater personalization and integration between applications and devices. "The companies that know how to offer immersive experiences, combining gamification, artificial intelligence, and personalization, will have a competitive advantage in this market," he concludes.
With the advancement of technology and the growing awareness of health and well-being, wearables and connected apps will continue to transform the way people monitor their activities and take care of their health. The challenge for companies will be to ensure that these innovations are accessible and bring real benefits to users' daily lives.
