In today’s age, wearable technology bridges imagination with reality, transforming lives and connectivity. Undoubtedly, we all are surrounded by a wide range of gadgets and technological tools from fitness bands to earbuds, smartphones, and a variety of other things. In 2024, event planning gets in touch with all such wearable technology, and now becomes a crucial part of event planning and execution. From RFID, NFC, and QR-based wristbands to cashless payment bracelets, smart glasses, and many more all combined are transforming the events of all formats across different industries. Here in this blog, we are going to explore the multi-diverse aspects of wearable technology for events. From its advantages, significance, types, uses, and cases and what it brings for organizers, exhibitors, sponsors, and attendees alike.
What does Wearable Event Technology mean?
The term wearable technology for events refers to a set of gadgets and custom tools designed to be worn on the body depending upon nature. As all serve their unique purposes in the event ecosystem. From smartwatches and fitness trackers to RFID wristbands, smart glasses, and more are merely a few examples. All these gadgets come with advanced sensors, connectivity options, and data analytics capabilities to enrich the overall event experience for both organizers and attendees. Furthermore, to indicate the various purposes it can be used for; attendee registration, access control, cashless payments, session tracking, and gathering data on attendee behavior. Overall, the wearables in events aim to smooth the event management process at different levels.
Types of Wearable Technology for Events
There are many types of wearable technology for events, gadgets, and tools available in the market. Also, it can be prepared based on the custom requirements of the event. Here are some of the crucial wearable event tech solutions that are meant to improve the planning, execution, and experiences of events. So, let’s get started knowing them;
RFID Wristbands
The RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) enabled wristbands, bracelets, badges or other key wearable tools are quite useful in events of huge masses. They can ease access management (contactless access with the help of self-check-in kiosks, turnstiles, or RFID reader devices placed at strategic places). Also, for cashless payments, and attendee tracking. These wristbands are particularly popular at music festivals, sporting events, and large-scale conferences.
NFC-enabled Badges
Near-field communication-enabled badges, such as event badges or NFC tags are meant for seamless access management and contactless interactions. Placing a QR code on the badge, can be further used as a digital business card (if integration is done in the mobile event app for such). NFC wristbands for events are versatile wearable tools that can be integrated into various event formats. Like from concerts and trade shows to networking mixers and experiential activations.
LED Wristbands
LED wristbands for events or bracelets are mostly used in music concerts (not limited uses to one particular event type), come up with basic to multiple lighting integration as per requirements. Furthermore, the lighting can be controlled manually or by the hosts synchronized to the beat of the music, theme, or any other. This is particularly used to enhance the overall event or festival. Besides this, the wristbands can be integrated with RFID, NFC, or QR-based codes to be utilized for multiple purposes.
Smart Glasses
In many types of events where showcasing the product or any other in real-time is not possible or giving an exact demonstration. This is the best. As with smart glasses immersive augmented reality experiences can be delivered, helpful for showcasing guided tours, and interactive exhibits. They are commonly used at trade shows, exhibitions, and corporate events to engage attendees and showcase products or services.
Fitness Trackers
As the name itself suggests and quite popular yet common in recent years. Fitness trackers incorporate wellness challenges, activity tracking, and gamification elements into events. They are ideal for corporate wellness programs, team-building events, and health-focused conferences.
Smartwatches
For both personal and professional smartwatches are a great add-on. As they provide real-time notifications, agenda updates, and networking opportunities for attendees. They are widely used at business summits, professional development seminars, and industry conferences to keep participants informed and connected.
Bluetooth Beacons
Wearable Beacons for Events enable proximity-based messaging, location tracking, and personalized experiences for attendees. They are commonly deployed at indoor venues, such as convention centers, museums, and exhibition halls, to deliver targeted content and enhance navigation.
By incorporating these types of wearable technology into event planning and execution. Organizers can create immersive, interactive, and memorable experiences for attendees. Not just that, but also optimizing operational efficiency and maximizing engagement. Whether it’s enhancing access control with RFID wristband for events or delivering personalized content with smart glasses, wearable technology offers endless possibilities to drive success.
Benefits of Wearable Technology for Events
There are various benefits of wearable tech for all the stakeholders of the event, and its sponsors to host or event attendees. Here are brief classifications;
For Event Host
Incorporating wearable technology into events offers various benefits for the event organizers to improve the event’s planning and execution processes. By automating registration and check-in processes, event organizers can reduce waiting times for attendees. With the help of a real-time tracking application, it can provide insightful analytics into attendee engagement and preferences, while enhanced security measures ensure controlled access to restricted areas. Moreover, operational tasks like cashless payments (with transparency add to increased efficiency).
Benefits of Wearable Tech for Exhibitors and Sponsors
With the unique opportunities to engage with attendees wearable technology for events plays a crucial role for exhibitors and sponsors. The wearable tech devices can provide exhibitors and sponsors with valuable data on attendees’ behavior, preferences, and interactions, enabling them to personalize their marketing efforts (with integration of event CRM). Furthermore, wearable tech can facilitate targeted messaging, personalized experiences, and interactive activations, driving higher engagement and brand visibility.
For Attendees
At last, wearable technology enhances the attendee experience in numerous ways. From easy check-in processes and cashless transactions to personalized recommendations and interactive experiences. These tools empower attendees to engage with content and exhibitors more meaningfully. Wearable tech also enables attendees to track their activity, access event resources on the go, and network with peers effortlessly. This resulting in a more enjoyable and productive event experience.
The Future Outlook of Wearable Technology
Technology is meant to continue to evolve, and the future of wearable technology in events looks promising. The latest advancements in artificial intelligence (AI), augmented reality (AR), and biometric authentication are expected to further enhance the capabilities of wearables in events. This leads to even more immersive, personalized, and secure experiences. Furthermore, increased integration with mobile apps, virtual reality, and location-based services will enable organizers to create seamless omnichannel experiences that bridge the physical and digital worlds.
Summing Up
Undoubtedly, wearable event technology showcased a wide range of applications that address various requirements of organizers, exhibitors, sponsors, and attendees. By leveraging the diverse applications and benefits of wearable devices. Eevent hosts can stay ahead of the curve, delighting audiences and creating lasting impressions that resonate long after the event concludes. Embrace the power of wearable technology and unlock its full potential in events. If you’re also looking forward to obtaining wearables for your next event, you’re in the right place. At Dreamcast, we offer various types of customizations and provide RFID, NFC, QR-code-based wristbands, bracelets, and other gadgets for improved event management. Book your free demo and learn more with our executives in a personalized session.
