Is Ofcom Regulation Impacting Wearable Technology?
Introduction
Wearable technology is the wave of the future, with innovation after innovation pushing forward to offer consumers increasingly impressive gadgets that are designed to make their lives more seamless and enjoyable. However, with every innovation in the industry, regulation may be necessary to ensure that they are safe and secure. That is where Ofcom, the independent regulator and competition authority for the UK’s communications industries, comes in. Ofcom plays a crucial role in regulating the use of wearable technology in the UK with several impacting regulations. In this article, we will be discussing the effect Ofcom regulation has had on wearable technology.
Ofcom Regulation and Wearable Technology
Ofcom’s principal objective is to ensure that communication services in the UK are consistently developed, maintained, and enhanced. One way the organization has done so is through its regulatory framework to ensure the safety and security of wearable technology.
In 2016, Ofcom started its regulation of IoT (Internet of Things) device security. The regulation aimed to pinpoint the ways cyber attackers take advantage of IoT devices and disrupt the spread. Consequently, the rule required companies to improve security levels of their devices.
Further, Ofcom introduced regulations to limit exposure of electromagnetic radiation to consumers within safe limits. This regulation protects users from exposure to radiation. Wearable technology like smartwatches that touch the skin has to comply with this regulation.
Effect of Ofcom Regulations on Wearable Technology
The Ofcom regulations have profoundly impacted wearable technology, leading to significant changes in the industry. For example, since the regulation on IoT device security compliance in 2016, businesses like Amazon and Google had to drastically overhaul their devices’ security protocols before meeting Ofcom’s standards.
Furthermore, the electromagnetic radiation regulation left smartwatch manufacturers with various design constraints. Today’s wearables are designed to cater to this regulation to ensure compliance and safety.
Examples of the Effect of Ofcom Regulations on Wearable Technology
One of the most remarkable impacts of the Ofcom regulation on wearable technology is the change in the functionality of fitness trackers. Fitness trackers are now designed with heart rate sensors that automatically switch off and go into power-saving mode if a user’s heart rate goes over a specific BPM. This feature ensures that the device doesn’t cause harm to the user.
Another significant change is the modification made to hearing aids worn as earpieces. Ofcom requires hearing aids to work within specific frequency limits and also limit signal amplification. This regulation ensures that wearers of such earpieces do not damage their ears from long-term exposure to noise.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the entry of Ofcom regulation has had a significant impact on the wearable technology industry. The regulation has led to changes in the design and production process and also ensured the safety and security of users. The wearable technology industry will need to continue to comply with Ofcom regulations to build trust with consumers and ensure a bright future for the industry.
