Determining the use and non-use factors of smartwatches

Abstract

Introduction: A smartwatch is a wearable device that can monitor variables associated with CSEP’s 24-hour movement guidelines (i.e., physical activity, sedentary time, sleep). The aims of this study were to explore the reasons for acquiring a smartwatch, reasons for early use cessation, and determine barriers of smartwatch adoption. Methods: Participants consisted of 299 individuals from a rural community. Data was collected using an online Qualtrics survey with fifteen, 5-point Likert scale questions (1 strongly disagree – 5 strongly agree). Results are shown as Means (M) and Standard Deviations (SD) and groups were compared using a t-test (p < 0.05). Results: 206 (70%) were current wearers, 33 (11%) were previous wearers, and 56 (19%) were non-wearers. The main reason for purchasing a smartwatch was to track physical activity (M = 4.5, SD = 1.6). The most common reasons for discontinuing smartwatch use were losing interest (M = 3.1, SD = 1.3) and finding it uncomfortable (M = 3.1, SD = 1.4). Previous wearers (M = 2.8, SD = 1.3) did not feel the smartwatch simplified their daily life as much as current wearers (M = 3.7, SD = 1.1), t(227) = 4.40, p < 0.001. The most common barrier for those who want a smartwatch but do not have one is the cost (M = 4.2, SD = 1.1). Conclusions: Future research should focus on reducing barriers to smartwatch adoption, advancing facilitators to encourage extended use, and promoting the use of these devices for health tracking features.