World of wearable tech showcased in new infographic
Callaghan Innovation today launched the second product in a new Infographics Series, which it hopes will demystify key
technology areas and raise awareness of the opportunities that these technologies are creating.
The Wearable Technology – Improving Human Performance and Wellbeing infographic breaks the topic down into sub components and explains which technologies are ready to utilise now and
which will be ready in the future.
The business innovation agency is currently running its biennial C-Prize Challenge, in which Kiwi innovators and
entrepreneurs are being are invited to create the next generation of wearable technology. Designed to push the
boundaries of what’s possible through technology, it offers a NZ$100,000 grand prize package.
The challenge calls for innovation in three important areas for New Zealand, says Chief Technology Officer Chris
Hartshorn: living healthier, working safer and playing smarter.
“Wearables for health, wearables for play, and wearables for the workplace are three very diverse areas, but they are
areas in tremendous need of innovation and solutions.
“For example in the workplace, wearables could bring not only safer environments but greater efficiencies. When you
think about ageing populations and the demand for hospital beds, these devices could make entire economies more
sustainable – and save lives.”
Most game-changing ideas no longer come from new inventions, Mr Hartshorn says, but from the convergence of vastly
different capabilities, different ideas, and different depths of competence.
“That’s is why I am urging this year’s entrants to be intellectually promiscuous – talk to a lot of people, engage with
them, and get them excited about what you're doing. And then partner with the selection of people whose experience
provides the most useful insight.
“The future of wearable technologies is still largely undefined. I believe that our entrepreneurial approach, innate
curiosity, technical nous, and community spirit make New Zealand uniquely qualified to shape it, to build it, and to
lead it.
“We know it takes a lot of courage to make the leap into innovation. An opportunity like C-Prize can be just the nudge
that people with ideas and ambition need to create a tangible concept.”
Entrants will have their innovations reviewed and recognised by a panel of industry professionals, prominent investors
and entrepreneurs, with the best becoming viable businesses. Entries close on July 2.
The infographic is available at: www.callaghaninnovation.govt.nz/news-and-events/world-wearable-tech-showcased-new-infographic