The smartwatch must-have list

Wearable technology is hot. And smartwatches are, too. But what should consumers expect from smartwatches? What features are essential?

Sensors

Thomas Claburn, editor-at-large with InformationWeek, recently explored this issue, writing his own take on just what he considers the most essential features that smartwatches need to have. First, he writes, smartwatches need to act as sensors. Which means they will be able to tell us the temperature, tell us where we are at any moment and tell us if our hearts are beating too quickly.

No Charging Hassles

Smartwatches shouldn’t call for cords and wires to recharge, Claburn writes. Preferably, we should automatically charge these devices as we walk or run. And if that isn’t possible, we should at least have the ability to charge them by placing them on charging plates.

No Financial Hit

Finally, Claburn states that smartwatches should be affordable. That really isn’t the case today. As Claburn writes, the Samsung Gear costs $299. That’s too much for a smartwatch.