How Safe is Wearable Technology?

March 17, 2022

From 2016 to 2019, the number of wearable devices connected and online doubled around the world. With an increase from 325 million to 722 million in three years, wearables are increasingly becoming integrated into our daily lives.

And it’s hard not to see why!

Smartwatches and fitness trackers help us increase our productivity. They provide us with seamless solutions to increase our mental and physical well-being. And they’re a convenient way of staying connected with the people in our lives, as well as the work we do.

More and more advancements in the wearable technology industry are taking place every day. From VR displays, smart clothing, and even smart jewelry — wearable tech aims to revolutionize each part of our every day life.

But not unlike smartphones, smartwatches operate on a system of radio waves like Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and 4 and 5G.

A common concern is that these wearable technology devices aren’t safe to use because of the frequencies they use and emit.

So, with this article, Doha aims to provide further insight into the matter.

Wearable Tech and Radiation

Yes. It is true that wearable tech emits radiation. Smartphones do as well. Laptops and desktop computers emit radiation, too. As well as radios and microwaves.

But within the category of radiation emissions, all of these devices emit different kinds of radiation, and they do so in different amounts.

Before consumer tech devices are available to the public, they undergo rigorous testing and research from government organizations like the FCC (Federal Communications Commission) in America or Ofcom in the UK.

And, devices are not allowed to be sold unless they are deemed safe and usable for the population as a whole.

Furthermore, there haven’t been sustainable scientific-backed studies that have confirmed health risks associated due to radiation from wearable tech.

However, while the radiation from smart devices has not been found to be a concern, the FDA does recommend that electronic devices such as smartphones and watches be kept at least six inches away from implanted medical devices.

This is because they may create magnetic interference and cause devices like pacemakers to change how they work. Though, most modern medical devices are equipped with “magnet mode” sensors to counteract this.

Privacy Concerns

While wearable tech may not pose a risk to your health, there are concerns over privacy and data.

Just like your computers, smartphones, and online accounts, smartwatches are vulnerable to data breaches. To ensure you’re keeping all of your information safe, it’s best to regularly back up any data stored on your wearable tech to a cloud drive.

Making sure you also have randomized, highly-complex passwords is a good idea as well. Another added security measure you can take is to enable Two-Step authentication on your devices so that if your device is hacked or lost, it’s much harder to gain access to its contents.

It’s also wise to make sure you have remote wipe enabled on your wearable device in case you need to delete the information on it if you’re separated from the device.

Best Practices & Precautions

So that you stay safe while using wearable tech, you should avoid texting on the device while you’re driving, running, or actively exercising.

While it’s tempting to take advantage of the device’s convenience, treat it like you do your smartphone, and use common sense judgment to keep you and others safe.

In addition, avoid sharing password information for your device or giving access to too many people.

Doha Inc: Wearables For Your Every Day Success

With our Doha wearables, you can make the most of your day-to-day life. Seamlessly, Doha’s wearables can help you automate daily tasks and keep track of your health and fitness goals.

To find out more about our devices, you can contact our specialists at 1-888-DOHAINC so you can learn about our subscription services.