Wearables, virtual reality: How new tech will influence 2016

Smartphones, phablets, the Apple Watch...all things that have changed how we interact with friends, family and work. But the tech revolution is still going strong and there are four more trends that may impact 2016 heavily. Here's what and how:

by Kristina Knight

Virtual Reality

"[Virtual Reality] will drive demand for products and brands at retail, graduating from a cool marketing tool to revenue-driver. VR headsets, mobile devices and social media will be vehicles for new forms of content as VR evolves and becomes more accessible. For example, Facebook's will take Occulus Rift into the mainstream next year. With this in mind, and with the billions of dollars being invested, VR will have a global impact and evolve even further to impact education training and entertainment," said Michael Kahn, Global CEO, Performics.

Wearable Technology

"The mass-market adaption of wearable technology will truly begin in 2016, as more wearables will be released that satisfy two very crucial demands of today's savvy consumer - personalized marketing and on-demand immediacy. Why? Consumers want to be even more connected to many aspects of their lives - health, family, fashion, technology -- and wearables are doing this. Smart watches are only the beginning," said Kahn.

Peer-to-Peer Sharing

"Industries once thought as too sophisticated or specialized for the sharing economy will begin fueling its growth. Already travel, transportation and hospitality have been revolutionized by the sharing economy, as witnessed by consumer adoption of such companies like Airbnb and Uber," said Kahn. "In 2016, we will see a massive increase in consumer-generated experiences, which will place more value in community products and overall convenience. We will see the sharing economy expand into more sectors including delivery services, food, beauty, fitness, publishing, filmmaking and healthcare."

3D Printing

"Mainstream printing and shipping will begin to feel obsolete as businesses, offices and consumers start to regularly use 3D printers. 3D printing will change how prototyping and product design and development are executed. More retailers will have special areas for custom products the same way Macy's has for in-store printed selfie iPhone cases. Many vertical markets will be affected by 3D printing, and we'll continue to see massive innovations in regards to healthcare and the printing of organs," said Kahn.

Image via Shutterstock

Tags: advertising, mobile marketing, Performics, tech trends, virtual reality, wearables