Social Implications

The IoT has created webs of connections that transform the way people and things interact with each other. Having a smartwatch is not only for fitness or health monitoring, but communication has been extended to other smart uses. For example, using the Nike+Running app, you are connected with other runners and users to share activity data and motivate each other to run more and better.

The “digital divide” is an issue of economic and social inequality. People who can afford the smartwatches and smartphones could benefit from the technologies to further improve health. However, those who cannot afford the devices won’t benefit. Those who lack digital tools are likely to further lack opportunities in education, health, and other aspects of life. The technology magnifies these differences (Greengard, 2015).