In a consumer electronics world dominated by smartphones, tablets and HDTVs, a new market category is generating South African consumer buying interest: safety devices.
An Accenture survey of 1 000 SA consumers, focused on consumer technology spending and usage, found that 81% are interested in a home safety and security monitor, 80% in an in-vehicle navigation system with real-time alerts, and 71% in a personal safety monitor.
Safety devices deliver a wide range of capabilities: home safety and security monitors include remote video monitoring; solutions to protect against potentially disastrous outcomes from fire, carbon monoxide, and intrusion; and systems that respond to medical emergencies.
In-vehicle safety systems include night vision devices; front/ read end collision alarm warning; and lane changing/ blind spot warning systems. While personal safety monitors can provide emergency assistance at the touch of a button.
Also of interest to South African consumers is health monitors and devices related to home comfort and control, cited by 69% and 66% of respondents, respectively.
In addition, the survey found significant South African consumer interest in wearable technologies – 65% of local consumers are interested in buying wearable technologies such as fitness monitors for tracking physical activity and managing personal health.
Many are also interested in buying smart watches (62%) and Internet-connected eyeglasses (55%). And when it comes to the more traditional consumer devices, 64% of South African consumers are interested in purchasing a smartphone within the next year, while 51% and 46% are interested in purchasing a tablet or HDTV, respectively.