In an interview with The Hans India, Imran Khagarwala, Co-founder, UNIX India, highlighted the transformative impact that AI and IoT will have on the Indian consumer electronics market. With the proliferation of smartphones and internet connectivity, AI and IoT are revolutionizing the way users interact with technology. These advancements are resulting in smart gadgets that are personalized, intuitive and interconnected, catering to the specific needs of Indian consumers, making them more productive and connected in their everyday lives.
Imran Khagarwala, co-founder of UNIX India
He said the Indian consumer electronics market has undergone rapid evolution in recent years due to technological advancements and changing consumer preferences. The widespread adoption of smartphones and internet connectivity has given rise to a new generation of smart devices that are more intuitive, interactive and integrated than ever before. This transformation is particularly evident in the areas of artificial intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT), which are revolutionizing the way Indian consumers interact with technology.
Modern gadgets are loaded with features aimed at enhancing productivity and connectivity. This includes regional language support, localized apps, and improved internet connectivity options, especially for the Indian market. With the integration of new-age technologies (AI and ML), more exciting developments are expected to come, resulting in personalized smart gadget experiences that seamlessly integrate into users’ lives, redefining the way we interact with our everyday gadgets.
Smart speakers, smart watches, and smart home devices are some examples of AI-enabled gadgets that are gaining popularity in India. These devices use machine learning algorithms to learn about users’ behavior and preferences to provide personalized experiences or automate tasks. Moreover, falling prices are making these technologies more affordable and accessible to a wider range of users.
AI personalizes user experiences, and Internet of Things (IoT) connectivity enables gadgets to communicate with each other and their environment, creating a truly intelligent ecosystem. In response to this growing trend and demand, the IoT market in India is projected to reach $9.28 billion by 2025 from $4.98 billion in 2020, mainly due to changes in consumer behavior caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. This new wave of innovation has huge potential to address specific needs within the Indian market.
Integrating AI into a smartwatch can not only track steps and heart rate, but also analyze activity patterns and recommend personalized training routines based on your fitness level and goals. AI-powered fitness trackers can also provide real-time coaching and motivational prompts to encourage users to achieve their fitness goals.
Similarly, IoT-enabled wearables and accessories can seamlessly connect with smartphones, enabling features like automatic music playback control on earbuds based on activity (e.g., switching to high-energy music during a workout) and personalized notifications that appear on your smartwatch based on your context (e.g., prioritized work emails only during work hours).
The success of AI and IoT-powered wearables and mobile accessories in India will depend on addressing the specific needs of the market. Developing voice assistants for smartwatches that understand local languages and cultural nuances will be key for wider adoption. Additionally, focusing on features that address the challenges faced by the Indian masses will also be essential. For mobile accessories, prioritizing fast charging capabilities for power banks and extended battery life for truly wireless stereo (TWS) earphones and neckbands will resonate strongly with Indian consumers.
The Indian market presents a golden opportunity for innovation in the space of smart wearables and mobile accessories. By embracing new-age technologies, developers can create a new generation of wearables and accessories that are personalized, seamlessly connected and tailored to the specific needs of Indian consumers. This wave of innovation has the potential to improve individual health and well-being, while also contributing to a more connected and efficient mobile experience for India’s growing user base.
The future of AI and IoT-enabled devices in India is bright, but there are challenges to be addressed. Security and data privacy are top concerns for users. Fortunately, developers are implementing strong security measures and prioritizing user control over data. Government efforts also play a key role. By promoting domestic production of AI and IoT components, India can strengthen its technological independence and build a strong ecosystem for innovation in smart gadgets.