In this paper, we synthesize current literature on persuasive mechanisms implemented in modern
physical activity trackers and understanding of technological- and device-oriented use and adoption
challenges. To understand how personal preferences and other individual characteristics could affect use
and adoption of wearable activity trackers, we present a six-week user study of 26 users using physical
activity trackers designed with clip-on and smart watch physical designs.
There exist some limitations to our work. For instance, our study involved only FitBit activity trackers.
Therefore, the findings may not be generalizable to other newer activity trackers. For instance, it is likely
that waterproof capability may become a standard feature in future activity trackers, and may no longer
be a primary concern that could influence use and adoption.
This work has the following primary contributions: (1) we contrast existing notification mechanisms
that remind people of activity goals with simply being mindful of wearing the device; (2) we uncover
previously underreported gender differences of use and adoption of physical activity trackers; (3) we point
to the potential of incorporating big data analytics to inform users beyond the conventional social
networking features; (4) we reframe data inaccuracy as an issue of exposing device limitations and
managing expectations. Our perspective differs from the technological- and device-oriented focus by
examining the nuances of use and adaption affected by personal preferences and individual
characteristics. Future studies that investigate affordances of new form factors could result in new
possibilities that could overcome these challenges.