Wearaware

Wearaware is a term used in discussions of wearable technology to describe the practice of staying informed about and managing the effects of wearing computing devices. It encompasses awareness of data collection, battery life, device placement, and potential distraction, as well as the privacy and ethical implications of sensor-enabled garments and accessories.

In design and research, wearaware informs considerations such as user consent, transparent data practices, unobtrusive notifications, accessibility, and the physical comfort and safety of wearables. It highlights the need to balance functionality with user autonomy and to address concerns about surveillance, data security, and sense of control.

Applications of wearaware include consumer education campaigns, privacy-by-design approaches, and studies on user behavior and acceptance of wearables in daily life and work environments. The concept supports efforts to design more usable devices that respect user preferences and boundaries while providing relevant feedback and benefits.

Criticism of wearaware notes that the term can be vague and context-dependent. Effective implementation often requires clear guidance, measurable norms, and user-centric design processes that establish trust and minimize unintended consequences.

See also wearable technology, privacy, data security, and human-computer interaction.