45.7 mn wearable tech gadgets to be shipped in 2015

SINGAPORE: Wearable technology devices are seeing a growth surge that is likely to continue over the next few years, helped by the soon-to-be-released Apple Watch, a market tracker said.

IDC said it expected some 45.7 million wearable tech gadgets to be shipped globally this year, up 133 per cent from 2014.

By 2019, the research firm sees volumes of 126.1 million units, or an average growth pace of 45 per cent.

Propelling the market higher will be devices like the Apple Watch, along with other smartwatches like Motorola's Moto 360, and Samsung's Gear watches.

Wrist-worn wearables, including bands, bracelets, and watches, will account for more than 80 per cent of the market over the coming years, IDC said. But it also sees strong growth in smart clothing - shirts, socks, hats, and other products with computing power - along with connected eyewear and earwear.