Hearables: Aiding and Improving Audio Communications in the Workplace

Author: ABI Research
Published: 2016/10/14
Topic: Market Research Reports - Publications List

Page Content: Synopsis Introduction Main

Synopsis: Hearables allow employees to take calls quickly, hands-free, and also provide ability to use voice-activated apps.

Introduction

The enterprise market, led by the government, military, and retail verticals, is beginning to turn to hearables to foster better communication, collaboration, and workforce productivity. ABI Research forecasts enterprise hearable shipments will top one million in 2021, increasing from just 30,000 in 2016, at a CAGR of more than 108%.

Main Item

"Hearables allow employees to take calls quickly and hands-free, and also provide the ability to use voice-activated apps to more efficiently find and relay the information needed to complete the task at hand," says Stephanie Lawrence, Research Analyst at ABI Research. "While hearables today do not account for a large portion of the enterprise wearables market, their popularity is poised to accelerate with new devices like the Apple AirPods prepped for prime time."

Newer entrants AfterShokz, Bragi, and Theatro are among a widespread variety of incumbents that include Bose, Motorola, and Plantronics, all of which are actively engaged in the space. These devices adopt a range of form factors from in-ear, such as Nuheara's IQbuds, to over the ear, such as Maven Machines' Co-Pilot™ and bone conduction, such as AfterShokz's Trekz Titanium. All of these devices work with voice as a natural interface to offer hands-free functionality--whether through a call, the ability to activate voice-enabled applications, ambient noise control (for filtering out select sounds), activity tracking, or otherwise.

As hearables gain ground, many companies are differentiating their device designs by keeping specific enterprise use cases in mind. For example, the INVISIO® X50 offers certified hearing protection, ensuring that high decibel sounds do not damage the ears while still allowing users to hear their environment. Jabra and Plantronics offer hearables suited for use in the office or a call center, giving employees the option to take hands-free calls and connect to multiple different phones. Maven Machines' Co-Pilot, meanwhile, specifically allows truck drivers to measure their levels of fatigue and perform mirror checks to ensure that they are driving safely.

"With large companies like Apple and Samsung in the market, awareness will only continue to accelerate, as more enterprises gain an understanding of what hearables have to offer," concludes Ryan Martin, Senior Analyst at ABI Research. "As hearables migrate from consumer to corporate environments, a number of new use cases will start to surface. Hands-free access to information, as well as the ability to communicate clearly across functional areas without the restraint of hand-held devices will continue to drive interest in hearable adoption."

These findings are from ABI Research's Enterprise Hearables: Ear-Worn Wearables - Devices, Technology, Applications, and Data Management.

This report is part of the company's Enterprise IT & OT Convergence and Wearables & Devices sectors, which include research, data, and analyst insights.

Explore Similar Topics

- Disabled and Elderly Assistive Technology market industry research report 2022-2027 gives in-depth analysis at the worldwide, regional and country level.

- Report shows wheelchair accessible vehicle converter market expected to expand due to increase in demand for mobility among population with disability.

Citing Information and Page References

Disabled World (DW) is a comprehensive online resource providing information and news related to disabilities, assistive technologies, and accessibility. Founded in 2004 our website covers a wide range of topics, including disability rights, healthcare, education, employment, and independent living, with the goal of supporting the disability community and their families.

Cite This Page (APA): ABI Research. (2016, October 14). Hearables: Aiding and Improving Audio Communications in the Workplace. Disabled World (DW). Retrieved February 7, 2025 from www.disabled-world.com/medical/research/hearables.php

Permalink: <a href="https://www.disabled-world.com/medical/research/hearables.php">Hearables: Aiding and Improving Audio Communications in the Workplace</a>: Hearables allow employees to take calls quickly, hands-free, and also provide ability to use voice-activated apps.

While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, it's important to note that our content is for general informational purposes only. We always recommend consulting qualified healthcare professionals for personalized medical advice. Any 3rd party offering or advertising does not constitute an endorsement.