Investigating User-Centric Factors Influencing Smartwatch Adoption and User Experience in the Philippines

Abstract

Smartwatches enable users to easily monitor their health, self-quantify, and track various activities. However, manufacturers and researchers in the field of smartwatches must explore and improve perceived usability to enhance the user experience of consumers and increase the device’s adoption rate. Therefore, this study investigates the factors influencing the adoption of smartwatches among Filipinos, focusing on usability and demographic influences. This is performed by utilizing the UTAUT2 model to examine key factors. External variables are explored, including perceived usability and privacy. To analyze the data acquired, partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) was conducted. The results indicated that performance expectancy, effort expectancy, social influence, hedonic motivation, price value, habit, and behavioral intention significantly influence smartwatch adoption. Habit emerged as positively affecting intention to use and usage behavior. However, facilitating conditions were found not to be significant in influencing intention to use and usage behavior, and privacy was perceived as having an insignificant relationship with the intention to use smartwatches. These findings offer theoretical and practical implications for enhancing smartwatch design and usability, addressing the diverse needs of users, and expanding inclusivity in the market.