Once the stuff of science fiction, wearable devices that track your wellbeing or improve personal productivity are taking office life by storm. But what do they actually do?
For... feeling rested: Xiaomi Mi Band
Similar in design and functionality to the better-known (and more expensive) Fitbit, the Mi Band is a fitness wearable that also features a sleep tracker. Its sleep/wake function will nudge you awake in the mornings through a series of gentle vibrations, easing you out of deep sleep before your alarm goes off so you start your day feeling well rested.
Aesthetic: A simple plastic band, available in a range of colours
Price: £26
For... a productive commute: Huawei talkband N1
Earphones with a difference, the Huawei Talkband N1 have built-in storage for audio files. With 4GB of memory, you can enjoy up to seven hours of songs or podcasts without having to hook up to your smartphone and waste battery or data on your commute to work.
Aesthetic: Small earbuds that magnetically clip around your neck
Price: £86
For... posture: Lumo Lift
Lumo Lift is designed to help solve the posture problems that are a common by-product of working in an office. Simply clip it to your shirt and the lightweight device vibrates every time you slump over into a slouching position, reminding you to lift your body and straighten your spine.
Aesthetic: Resembles a brooch or lapel pin, and comes in a range of colours
Price: £80
For... stress: MUSE headband
This headband and accompanying free Bluetooth app are designed to help manage your daily stresses. Measuring the electric impulses your brain produces, the headband syncs with your smartphone to offer feedback on your stress levels and provide guided meditation and breathing exercises, keeping your head clear and calm in the busiest of environments.
Aesthetic: Futuristic and retro at the same time – makes you look a bit like Captain Scarlet
Price: £195
For... keeping organised: Moto Hint
The Moto Hint is a discreet wireless earbud that acts as your very own voice-activated personal assistant. Compatible with any Bluetooth-enabled smartphone, it will remind you of your agenda throughout the day, respond to basic questions (such as “should I take an umbrella to work today?”) and make phone calls.
Aesthetic: Unobtrusively stylish. Polished metal inlaid with a wood finish
Price: £85
Website: motorola.com
For... everything else: Apple Watch
Apple continues to dominate the smartwatch market, and now boasts easily the best wearable all-rounder. Besides syncing to all the common smartphone apps, the Apple Watch can assist with the delivery of a keynote presentation, send and receive emails, and keep you updated with new notifications – and all without having to access your (Apple) smartphone or laptop.
Aesthetic: Slick and easy to personalise
Price: from £300