Wearable Adoption is Up, But Are We Reaching the Right People? ⌚️📈
Wearable technology has exploded in popularity over the last decade, but who is actually using these devices? Recent data from Rock Health provides some interesting insights into ownership trends, usage, and the persistent sociodemographic divides in digital health.
The State of Wearables in the US:
- Ownership is Rising: Since 2015, wearable ownership in the US has increased by an impressive 33%. Currently, about 46% of Americans own a wearable device, and 57% own at least one wearable or connected device.
- Brand Loyalty is Strong: Nearly half (47%) of users have worn a device for three or more years, and a large majority stick with the same brand. Apple leads the pack (63%), followed by Fitbit (27%) and Samsung (16%).
- More Than Just Steps: While smartwatches (43%) are the most popular, users are also adopting smart scales, connected blood pressure cuffs, continuous glucose monitors, and smart rings.
- Bringing Data to the Doctor: 59% of users have discussed their wearable data with a healthcare provider, showing a growing desire to integrate these devices into clinical care.
The Equity Gap: Who Isn’t Wearing Them?
Despite the overall growth, a significant “paradox” exists in wearable adoption. The data clearly shows that ownership is highest among specific groups: - Younger individuals
- Those with higher incomes (e.g., ≥$200,000) and advanced education levels
- Urban residents
- Commercially insured individuals
- People who already describe their health as “excellent”
Conversely, those who are older, have lower incomes, live in rural areas, are uninsured or on Medicaid, and report moderate or poor health are significantly less likely to own a wearable.
The Road Ahead:
As wearable makers like Google, Oura, and Whoop continue to develop advanced, potentially life-saving health features (like continuous biometrics, Afib alerts, and AI-powered health coaching), the critical question becomes: How do we ensure equitable access?
The populations that could potentially benefit the most from continuous health tracking are currently the least likely to own these devices. The next chapter of wearable technology must focus on moving beyond the “worried well” and creating infrastructure, regulatory support, and pricing models that improve population health for everyone.
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