Technology is changing how we live, and smartwatches and health trackers have become a big part of that. These devices help us stay fit, monitor health, and even manage stress. But how many people actually use them? How are they impacting health habits?
1. Global Smartwatch Market Size (2023): Estimated at $43 billion
The smartwatch market has exploded in recent years, reaching an estimated $43 billion in 2023. This growth is driven by an increasing interest in health and fitness, as well as the convenience of wearable technology.
People are no longer buying smartwatches just to check the time or read notifications. These devices are now used to track workouts, monitor heart rates, and even detect medical conditions. With more brands entering the market, competition has increased, leading to better features at lower prices.
If you’re considering buying a smartwatch, think about what features matter most to you. Do you need detailed fitness tracking, or are you more interested in sleep monitoring? By understanding your needs, you can invest in a watch that truly benefits you.
For businesses, this growing market means there is still a lot of potential for innovation. If you’re in the health industry, integrating smartwatch data into your services could be a game-changer.
2. Projected Smartwatch Market Size (2028): Expected to reach $64 billion
The smartwatch industry isn’t slowing down. By 2028, experts predict it will grow to $64 billion. This means more people will adopt these devices, and companies will continue improving their products.
The rise in health-conscious consumers is one reason for this growth. More people are realizing that monitoring their health daily can help prevent serious illnesses. This is leading to greater demand for wearable health technology.
If you’re on the fence about getting a smartwatch, now is a great time. Features will continue to improve, and prices may become more competitive. Businesses can also benefit from this trend by developing apps and services that integrate with wearables.
3. Smartwatch Shipments Worldwide (2023): Over 150 million units shipped
In 2023 alone, over 150 million smartwatches were shipped worldwide. This shows that demand for these devices is not just strong—it’s massive.
With so many units in circulation, more people are using smartwatches daily. The biggest reason? Convenience. A smartwatch can track fitness, receive calls, and even act as a digital wallet.
If you already own a smartwatch, make sure you’re using it to its full potential. Explore different apps, set health goals, and sync it with your phone for maximum efficiency. Businesses should take note as well—this many devices in the market means a huge opportunity for new apps and accessories.
4. Wearable Device Market Growth Rate (CAGR 2023-2028): Around 8-10% annually
The wearable tech industry is growing at a steady rate of 8-10% per year. This growth is fueled by rising consumer interest and technological advancements.
Many people are looking for ways to stay healthier without making drastic lifestyle changes. Wearables provide an easy solution by offering real-time health data. This makes it easier for users to adjust their habits and make informed decisions.
If you are considering starting a business in this space, now is the time. Whether it’s developing a new fitness app or creating stylish smartwatch bands, there are many opportunities to tap into this growing market.
5. Global Wearable Device Users (2023): Exceeds 1 billion users
As of 2023, over 1 billion people are using wearable devices. That’s a huge number, and it reflects how mainstream these devices have become.
This widespread adoption means that wearable tech is no longer just for fitness enthusiasts. People from all walks of life are using them to monitor heart rates, track sleep, and even manage stress.
For users, this means there’s a growing community of people who share similar health goals. Engaging with online fitness groups or smartwatch challenges can be a great way to stay motivated.
Businesses should see this as a sign that wearables are here to stay. Companies that can integrate smartwatch data into their services will be ahead of the curve.
6. Smartwatch Penetration in the U.S. (2023): About 30% of adults own a smartwatch
In the U.S., around 30% of adults own a smartwatch. This is a significant portion of the population, showing that wearables are not just a passing trend.
Many people use smartwatches for fitness, but others rely on them for productivity. From receiving calls to setting reminders, these devices make daily life easier.
If you don’t have a smartwatch yet, consider how it could improve your routine. If fitness isn’t your top priority, you might still benefit from features like calendar notifications and contactless payments.
7. Health & Fitness Tracker Penetration in the U.S.: Around 40% of adults use some form of wearable health device
Fitness trackers are even more popular than smartwatches. About 40% of U.S. adults use a wearable health device, which includes fitness bands and heart rate monitors.
This trend suggests that more people are prioritizing their health. Simple devices like Fitbit or Garmin trackers help users stay accountable with their fitness goals.
If you’re looking for motivation to exercise, a fitness tracker might be the push you need. Many models remind you to move, track your steps, and monitor calorie burn.
Companies can take advantage of this trend by developing health-related apps that integrate with wearable devices. Employers can also encourage wellness programs that include fitness trackers to promote a healthier workforce.
8. Apple Watch Market Share (2023): Dominates with ~30-35% of the global smartwatch market
Apple has maintained its stronghold in the smartwatch industry, with a market share of around 30-35% in 2023. This makes it the most popular smartwatch brand globally.
The Apple Watch stands out because of its seamless integration with iPhones, premium design, and advanced health tracking features. Features like ECG monitoring, fall detection, and blood oxygen tracking make it a favorite among health-conscious users.
If you’re considering buying a smartwatch and you own an iPhone, the Apple Watch is likely your best option. It provides a smooth user experience and offers exclusive features like Apple Fitness+. However, if you’re an Android user, Samsung or Garmin watches might be better suited to your needs.
For businesses, Apple’s dominance presents opportunities for creating third-party apps, accessories, and integration services. Developing health and fitness apps that sync with Apple Health can be a great way to reach a massive audience.
9. Samsung Smartwatch Market Share (2023): Holds around 10-15% of the global market
Samsung remains a major player in the smartwatch industry, capturing 10-15% of the global market. The brand’s Galaxy Watch series is popular among Android users, thanks to its sleek design and powerful features.
Samsung’s smartwatches offer advanced health tracking, including body composition analysis, ECG, and blood pressure monitoring. Unlike the Apple Watch, many Samsung models also work well with non-Samsung Android phones, making them a great option for a wider range of users.
If you are looking for a high-quality smartwatch with strong health features and a long battery life, Samsung’s offerings are worth considering. Their watches also tend to be more affordable than Apple’s, providing great value for money.
For developers and businesses, the Samsung smartwatch ecosystem presents another opportunity. Creating apps that integrate with Samsung Health can help attract a large user base.
10. Garmin Smartwatch Market Share (2023): Accounts for approximately 5-8% of the market
Garmin holds around 5-8% of the smartwatch market, making it a strong contender, especially in the fitness and outdoor sports category. Garmin watches are known for their durability, advanced GPS tracking, and long battery life.
Unlike Apple and Samsung, Garmin focuses primarily on serious athletes and outdoor enthusiasts. Their watches come with specialized features like VO2 max tracking, detailed running analytics, and built-in maps for hiking and cycling.
If you are an endurance athlete, hiker, or someone who prioritizes precise tracking over smart features, a Garmin smartwatch might be your best choice. These watches can track everything from altitude adjustments to deep sleep cycles, making them great for detailed performance analysis.
For businesses, Garmin users represent a niche but dedicated market. Developing training programs, fitness plans, or even premium apps tailored to serious athletes can be a profitable venture.
11. Fitbit Market Share Decline: Dropped below 5% due to competition
Fitbit was once a leader in the wearable industry, but its market share has dropped below 5% due to intense competition from Apple, Samsung, and Garmin. However, Fitbit still has a strong presence, especially in the budget-friendly fitness tracker category.
Google’s acquisition of Fitbit has led to new developments, including deeper integration with Google services. The Fitbit Charge series and Versa smartwatches remain popular among users who want simple fitness tracking without the high price of premium smartwatches.
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly fitness tracker with essential health monitoring features, Fitbit is still a good choice. However, with Apple and Samsung adding more advanced features, Fitbit needs to innovate further to regain market share.
For developers and businesses, Fitbit’s decline means there’s space in the market for new fitness tracker brands. Offering affordable but feature-rich devices could help capture the audience that Fitbit is losing.
12. Primary Use Case for Smartwatches: 60% of users primarily use them for fitness tracking
More than 60% of smartwatch owners primarily use them for fitness tracking. This is one of the biggest reasons people invest in a smartwatch.
Fitness tracking features like step counting, calorie monitoring, and workout tracking help users stay active. More advanced features like heart rate variability and VO2 max analysis provide deeper insights into physical performance.
If you own a smartwatch, take full advantage of its fitness tracking features. Set daily step goals, monitor your progress over time, and use guided workouts if your watch offers them.
For businesses, this statistic highlights the continued demand for fitness-focused wearables. Creating engaging fitness challenges, training plans, or even wearable-integrated workout programs can attract users looking to maximize their device’s potential.
13. Heart Rate Monitoring Usage: Over 70% of smartwatch users track heart rate regularly
Heart rate tracking is one of the most widely used smartwatch features, with over 70% of users monitoring their heart rates regularly. This feature provides real-time data on cardiovascular health, stress levels, and workout intensity.
Many smartwatches now offer continuous heart rate monitoring, meaning users can see how their heart behaves throughout the day. Some even alert users to irregular heart rhythms, helping with early detection of potential heart issues.
If you own a smartwatch, use this feature to better understand your health. Keep an eye on your resting heart rate, and if you notice sudden spikes or irregularities, consult a doctor. Athletes can also use heart rate zones to optimize workouts for fat burn, endurance, or peak performance.
Businesses in the health and fitness industry should explore ways to integrate heart rate data into their services. Providing heart rate-based training programs or offering insights into stress management could be highly valuable to users.
14. Sleep Tracking Feature Usage: Around 55% of users track sleep patterns
Sleep tracking is becoming increasingly popular, with around 55% of smartwatch users monitoring their sleep patterns. Poor sleep is linked to a range of health problems, and wearables help users understand their sleep quality.
Most modern smartwatches track sleep duration, REM cycles, and disturbances. Some even provide recommendations for improving sleep based on the data they collect.
If you struggle with sleep, start tracking your patterns and look for trends. Are you going to bed too late? Are you waking up frequently? Adjust your routine based on these insights to improve your sleep quality.
For businesses, this trend presents opportunities in sleep coaching, wellness programs, and sleep-improving technologies. Apps that help users optimize their sleep schedules or products like smart pillows could benefit from this growing interest.
15. Blood Oxygen Monitoring Adoption: About 40% of smartwatch users utilize SpO2 tracking
SpO2 (blood oxygen) monitoring has gained popularity, with about 40% of smartwatch users taking advantage of this feature. This metric became especially relevant during the COVID-19 pandemic when people wanted to track their oxygen levels at home.
Monitoring blood oxygen levels can help detect issues like sleep apnea, respiratory conditions, and even early signs of illness. While smartwatches are not medical devices, they can still provide helpful insights.
If your watch offers SpO2 tracking, check your levels regularly and look for trends. Low oxygen levels at night might indicate sleep disturbances, while dips during exercise could mean you need to improve your cardiovascular health.
For businesses, SpO2 monitoring presents opportunities in telemedicine, respiratory health tracking, and health-related wearable accessories. As more people use this feature, services that help interpret and act on this data could be valuable.
16. ECG Feature Adoption: Roughly 25% of smartwatch users use electrocardiogram functionality
Electrocardiogram (ECG) functionality is one of the most significant health features available in modern smartwatches. Around 25% of smartwatch users take advantage of this feature, which allows them to check their heart rhythm and detect irregularities such as atrial fibrillation (AFib).
This feature has been particularly useful for individuals with a history of heart disease or those at risk of developing cardiovascular issues. While smartwatch ECG readings are not a replacement for professional medical tests, they serve as an early warning system that helps users detect abnormalities.
If you own a smartwatch with ECG capabilities, use it regularly—especially if you experience symptoms like dizziness, heart palpitations, or shortness of breath. If you notice irregular patterns, consult a doctor immediately.
For businesses in the healthcare and wearable industry, this trend highlights an opportunity for further integration with telemedicine services. Health apps that analyze ECG data and provide actionable insights can add tremendous value to users.
17. Smartwatches & Diabetes Monitoring: Over 10% of users track blood glucose levels
Managing diabetes has become easier with the rise of smartwatch glucose monitoring. Although still in the early stages, over 10% of smartwatch users track their blood glucose levels through external sensors that sync with their devices.
Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) is a game-changer for diabetics. Instead of pricking their fingers multiple times a day, users can now track their glucose levels in real time through devices like the Dexcom G6 and FreeStyle Libre, which can sync data to a smartwatch.
If you have diabetes or are prediabetic, investing in a smartwatch-compatible glucose monitor can help you keep your sugar levels in check. Many of these devices alert users when their glucose levels are too high or too low, allowing for immediate action.
For the medical and tech industries, the development of non-invasive blood glucose tracking in smartwatches would be revolutionary. Companies investing in this area could see massive growth as demand for such technology increases.
18. Wearables & Step Tracking: 90% of users engage with step-counting features
Step tracking remains the most widely used smartwatch feature, with 90% of users engaging with it daily. Walking is one of the easiest forms of exercise, and tracking steps helps people stay accountable to their fitness goals.
Most users aim for the standard 10,000 steps per day, but even smaller increases in daily steps can lead to significant health benefits. Many smartwatches also provide reminders to move if users have been inactive for too long.
If you find it challenging to stay active, set realistic goals. If 10,000 steps seem overwhelming, start with 5,000 and gradually increase your target. Consider joining a step challenge with friends to stay motivated.
Businesses can use this trend to promote healthier lifestyles. Office wellness programs that encourage employees to track and improve their step count can lead to a more active and engaged workforce.
19. Calorie Tracking Feature Usage: Around 50% of smartwatch users track calories
Half of all smartwatch users actively track their calorie intake and expenditure. This is especially useful for those focused on weight management or fitness goals.
Calorie tracking apps integrated with smartwatches allow users to log meals, monitor calorie burn, and maintain a better understanding of their energy balance. Some smartwatches even provide daily calorie goals based on activity levels.
If weight loss or muscle gain is your goal, using calorie-tracking features can provide valuable insights. Just ensure that you’re tracking consistently and using accurate data for portion sizes and activity levels.
For businesses, fitness and nutrition coaching services can benefit from integrating smartwatch data. Personalized diet plans based on wearable-tracked activity levels could provide users with a more effective way to reach their goals.
20. Women’s Health Tracking: 35% of female smartwatch users track menstrual cycles
Menstrual cycle tracking has become a popular smartwatch feature, with 35% of female users using it regularly.
These tools help users predict their periods, track symptoms, and monitor fertility. Some smartwatches also provide insights into hormonal fluctuations and their effects on mood, energy, and workouts.
If you’re a smartwatch user, menstrual tracking can be useful for planning around your cycle. Whether you’re trying to conceive, avoid pregnancy, or simply understand your body better, using this feature consistently can provide helpful insights.
For health tech companies, there is an opportunity to expand offerings related to women’s health. Smartwatch integrations with fertility monitoring, PCOS management, and pregnancy tracking could add even more value.
21. Workplace Wellness Programs: 45% of companies incorporate wearables into wellness initiatives
Almost half of companies now include wearables in their workplace wellness programs. Employers have realized that healthier employees are more productive, have lower healthcare costs, and take fewer sick days.
Workplace initiatives often include step challenges, heart rate monitoring, and stress reduction programs using wearable data. Some employers even offer financial incentives to employees who meet certain health goals.
If your workplace offers a wellness program, participate! These initiatives are designed to help employees live healthier lives, and they can provide motivation to stay active.
For businesses, investing in employee wellness programs that integrate wearables can lead to long-term benefits, including higher employee engagement and retention.
22. Smartwatch Users Who Check Health Data Daily: Around 60% review health metrics daily
Most smartwatch owners actively engage with their health data, with 60% reviewing their stats daily. This includes steps, heart rate, sleep patterns, and calorie intake.
Regularly checking health data allows users to spot trends and make adjustments. If you see that your resting heart rate is increasing, it might be a sign that you need more sleep or better stress management.
If you’re a smartwatch user, make it a habit to check your health stats each morning or evening. Small adjustments based on this data can lead to long-term health improvements.
Businesses that provide health analytics, coaching, or personalized fitness programs can benefit from integrating smartwatch data into their offerings.
23. Impact on Exercise Habits: 40% of smartwatch users report increased exercise frequency
One of the biggest advantages of smartwatches is that they encourage people to be more active. Around 40% of users say they exercise more frequently after getting a smartwatch.
The constant visibility of step counts, activity rings, and fitness goals acts as a motivator. Many users push themselves to meet their daily targets, resulting in a healthier lifestyle.
If you struggle with consistency in your workouts, use your smartwatch to set reminders and activity goals. Some devices even offer guided workouts that can help you stay on track.
For fitness professionals and personal trainers, this presents an opportunity to offer smartwatch-compatible training programs that keep clients engaged.
24. Impact on Sleep Quality Awareness: 30% of users adjust sleep habits based on wearable data
Sleep tracking is making a real difference in people’s lives. About 30% of smartwatch users adjust their sleep habits based on the data they receive.
Wearables provide insights into sleep duration, sleep stages, and disturbances. Seeing patterns in sleep quality can help users make better decisions, such as setting earlier bedtimes or avoiding caffeine late in the day.
If you want to improve your sleep, start using your smartwatch’s sleep-tracking feature consistently. Pay attention to trends and experiment with different routines to see what helps you sleep better.
For businesses in the sleep health industry, integrating wearable data into sleep coaching services or smart bedroom devices can create new opportunities.
25. Wearables & Weight Management: 25% of users report weight loss benefits from wearables
Smartwatches and fitness trackers have proven to be effective tools for weight management. About 25% of users report that using a wearable device has helped them lose weight.
The key to this success is accountability. Wearables track calorie burn, steps, workouts, and even food intake when synced with nutrition apps. They also provide insights into activity trends, helping users adjust their habits to reach their goals.
If weight loss is your goal, use your smartwatch’s features consistently. Track your calorie intake, monitor your steps, and set daily movement goals. Small changes, like walking an extra 2,000 steps per day or monitoring portion sizes, can lead to significant progress over time.
For businesses, the rise in wearables for weight management presents an opportunity. Creating personalized weight loss programs, fitness challenges, or integrating wearable data with diet coaching services can be highly effective in engaging users.
26. Wearable Device Retention Rate: Around 70% of smartwatch users continue use after one year
Unlike many tech gadgets that lose appeal over time, smartwatches and health trackers maintain high retention rates. Around 70% of users continue using their devices after one year.
This shows that wearables are not just a passing trend—they become an essential part of daily routines. The ability to track health metrics, receive notifications, and improve productivity makes them valuable long-term investments.
If you own a smartwatch but feel like you’re not using it to its full potential, explore new features. Set fitness goals, monitor stress levels, or use it for time management. The more you engage with your device, the more value you’ll get from it.
For businesses, this retention rate means there is an ongoing market for upgrades, accessories, and subscription services. Companies can create smartwatch-friendly workout programs, guided meditation apps, or premium analytics tools to keep users engaged.
27. Smartwatch Adoption Among Seniors (65+): About 15% of elderly individuals use smartwatches
While smartwatch adoption is highest among younger demographics, around 15% of seniors (65+) now use these devices. This number is expected to grow as more health-focused features become available.
Seniors benefit greatly from features like fall detection, heart rate monitoring, and medication reminders. Some smartwatches even have emergency SOS functions that alert family members or medical professionals if something goes wrong.
If you have an elderly family member, consider introducing them to a smartwatch. It can help them stay active, monitor their health, and provide peace of mind in case of emergencies.
For tech companies, this segment presents an opportunity to create senior-friendly wearables with larger displays, simpler interfaces, and specialized health tracking features tailored to older adults.
28. Healthcare Integration: 20% of doctors encourage patients to use smartwatches for health tracking
The medical community is beginning to embrace wearable technology. Around 20% of doctors now encourage patients to use smartwatches for health tracking.
These devices can help doctors monitor conditions like heart arrhythmias, blood oxygen levels, and sleep disorders. By collecting real-time data, patients can share more accurate health information with their healthcare providers.
If you have a smartwatch with health-tracking features, consider sharing your data with your doctor. It can provide valuable insights into your heart rate patterns, sleep quality, and activity levels, helping your doctor make better recommendations.
For healthcare providers and insurance companies, integrating wearable data into patient care plans and preventive health strategies could lead to improved health outcomes and cost savings.
29. Wearable Data & Health App Synchronization: 80% of smartwatch users sync data with health apps
The majority of smartwatch users—around 80%—sync their wearable data with health apps. These apps provide deeper insights, trend analysis, and personalized recommendations based on the collected data.
Popular apps like Apple Health, Google Fit, and Fitbit provide users with a centralized place to monitor everything from workouts to sleep patterns. Some apps even integrate with nutrition and mental health platforms, offering a more holistic view of well-being.
If you own a smartwatch but haven’t synced it with a health app yet, now is the time. Doing so allows you to track progress more effectively and get personalized feedback based on your habits.
For businesses, this statistic highlights the importance of integrating with existing health ecosystems. Fitness brands, wellness coaches, and medical professionals can use wearable data to create more customized services.
30. Smartwatch Users Willing to Share Health Data: 50% are open to sharing health data with doctors
Half of smartwatch users are willing to share their health data with doctors, showing that people are becoming more comfortable with wearable-driven healthcare.
Sharing wearable data can help doctors diagnose conditions, adjust treatments, and track the effectiveness of lifestyle changes. This is especially useful for people with chronic conditions like heart disease, diabetes, or high blood pressure.
If you’re open to sharing your health data, talk to your doctor about how it can be used. Some hospitals and clinics now have programs that allow patients to sync their wearable data with medical records, enabling better-informed decisions.
For businesses, this presents an opportunity to develop secure, HIPAA-compliant platforms that allow seamless data sharing between patients and healthcare providers. As the demand for digital health solutions grows, companies that prioritize data privacy and security will stand out.
wrapping it up
The adoption of smartwatches and health trackers has grown significantly over the years, and these devices have become a major part of modern health and wellness routines. Whether it’s fitness tracking, heart rate monitoring, or sleep analysis, wearables are helping millions of people make smarter health decisions.
