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I’m not wearing my fitness tracker this weekend because I don’t want to know what kind of ill-effects I’m suffering due to my holiday weekend hot dog consumption. I’ll be back on track on Monday, though, and I might grab one of these deeply discounted Garmin fitness watches to track my progress. It’s not even Prime Day and these are already the cheapest prices we’ve seen all year. These are basically new watches for refurbished prices.

This watch has earned its place as a standard with runners and exercise enthusiasts. This is the 46mm face, so it has a large screen that’s easy to read under just about any circumstance. It tracks your vitals while you’re working out, but it also keeps tabs on your overall health, including your sleep. It comes in a variety of colors, sizes, and options, so make sure you get the model that best fits your workout habits. They’re basically all on sale.

Garmin Instinct 2, Rugged Outdoor Watch with GPS $169 (was $299)

This is the cheapest model in the sale and it still offers everything you need. With the GPS turned off, the battery will last a massive 28 days between charges thanks to the black-and-white screen. It tracks heart rate, oxygen levels, sleep, and everything else you need to tweak your habits for optimal health.

More Garmin fitness tracker and running watch deals

• Garmin Forerunner® 255, GPS Running Smartwatch Tidal Blue $199 (was $349)
• Garmin Forerunner® 255 Music $249 (was $399)
• Garmin Forerunner® 955, GPS Running Smartwatch $349 (was $499)
• Garmin Forerunner® 955, GPS Running Smartwatch Whitestone $349 (was $499)
• Garmin Forerunner® 955 Solar, GPS Running Smartwatch with Solar Charging $399 (was $599)
• Garmin Forerunner® 955 Solar White $399 (was $599)
• Garmin epix Pro (Gen 2) Sapphire Edition $609 (was $1,099)
• Garmin fēnix 7 Pro Sapphire Solar, Multisport GPS Smartwatch $499 (was $899)
• Garmin fēnix 7S Pro Sapphire Solar, Multisport GPS Smartwatch $549 (was $899)
• Garmin fēnix 7X Pro Solar, Multisport GPS Smartwatch $549 (was $899)
• Garmin fēnix 7X Pro Sapphire Solar, Multisport GPS Smartwatch $599 (was $999)
• Garmin vívoactive 5, Health and Fitness GPS Smartwatch $195 (was $299)
• Garmin vívoactive 5, Health and Fitness GPS Smartwatch Orchid $190 (was $299)
• Garmin Forerunner® 255 Music, GPS Running Smartwatch with Music $249 (was $399)
• Garmin Venu® Sq 2 GPS Smartwatch $149 (was $249)
• Garmin quatix® 7X Solar Edition, Marine GPS Smartwatch $599 (was $1,099)
• Garmin epix Pro (Gen 2) Sapphire Edition $734 (was $1,099)
• Garmin epix Pro (Gen 2) Sapphire Edition, 47mm, High Performance Smartwatch $649 (was $999)
• Garmin fēnix 7 Pro Sapphire Solar, Multisport GPS Smartwatch $549 (was $899)

 

More deals, reviews, and buying guides

The PopSci team has tested hundreds of products and spent thousands of hours trying to find the best gear and gadgets you can buy.

 

Microsoft has officially shut down its office in Pakistan, marking a significant development in the country’s tech sector, as reported by Dawn. The move, which sparked speculation on social media, was first brought to public attention by a LinkedIn post from Jawad Rehman, the former head of Microsoft Pakistan. Citing insider information, he claimed the tech giant had “officially closed its operations” in the country. While Microsoft maintained a small on-ground presence in Pakistan until recently, most of its operations were already being managed by foreign offices and local partners, according to Dawn.

Responding to Dawn’s queries, a Microsoft spokesperson confirmed the closure, stating, “We will serve our customers through both our strong and extensive partner organisation, and other closely located Microsoft offices. We follow this model successfully in several other countries around the world.” According to the report, the decision is part of Microsoft’s global restructuring efforts and broader transition towards artificial intelligence (AI) and Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) business models.

ALSO READ: Pakistan Has ‘No Objection’ To Extraditing Those Wanted By India: Bilawal Bhutto’s Big Remarks With A Catch | DEETS

Earlier this week, Microsoft announced a four per cent reduction in its global workforce, amounting to nearly 9,000 job cuts out of 2,28,000 total employees, following earlier layoffs in May. The Ministry of IT and Telecommunications, in a statement cited by Dawn, clarified that this should not be seen as Microsoft “exiting” Pakistan, but rather a shift to a cloud-based, partner-led model consistent with evolving industry standards. Technology expert Habibullah Khan explained to Dawn that as companies move from on-premise to SaaS models, physical presence in local markets becomes less necessary.

ALSO READ: Microsoft Slashes 4% Of Global Staff In Major Restructuring Move

He added that Microsoft’s closure in Pakistan is aligned with this shift and is part of a global trend, not a commentary on Pakistan’s tech landscape. Dawn also noted that other multinationals, such as Careem, have recently announced scaling back or ceasing operations in Pakistan, though Khan emphasised Microsoft’s move is more about cost-efficiency and strategy, not instability.

(With inputs from agency)

Lima, Peru, Jun 30, 2017 /
16:05 pm

An Argentine diocesan official has clarified that the local archbishop did not deny a sacramental Catholic wedding to Argentinian soccer player Lionel “Leo” Messi and his girlfriend, Antonella Roccuzzo.
 
Rather, the archbishop forbid that a Catholic wedding for the couple be celebrated in a casino chapel, per Church norms.
 
Some reports about the couple’s wedding, such as those from the international sports media company AS, had claimed that “The Archbishop forbids Messi and Antonella to marry in the Church.”
 
However, the Episcopal Delegate of Communication for the Archdiocese of Rosario, Fr. Rubén Bellante, told CNA that “neither the family of Messi nor the bride asked for a place in any parish in the city of Rosario, nor in the Cathedral either.”
 
“At no time did Archbishop Eduardo Eliseo Martín deny the possibility of the Sacrament of Marriage,” he said.
 
Messi, star of Barcelona FC soccer team and one of the best players in the world, had a civil marriage ceremony at the City Center Casino Complex, south of Rosario, Argentina on June 30 with 260 guests. The wedding was attended by well-known soccer figures and celebrities (such as Shakira) from various parts of the world.
 
Messi met Antonella when he was just 5 years old, but officially their relationship started in 2008. The couple has two children: Thiago, age 4, and Mateo, age 1.
 
The archbishop intervened in the Messi’s wedding only when he was made aware that the couple was planning to construct a chapel in a casino and to have a priest facilitate the ceremony, Fr. Bellante said.
 
The Archbishop banned the priest from facilitating a marriage at the casino. This is in keeping with Church tradition, as it is rare for the Church to approve requests for a Catholic marriage ceremony outside of a Catholic church.
 
Fr. Bellante added that Archbishop Martin suggested that a sacramental marriage for Messi may have been possible in a private house, if such a thing had been requested and were necessary for reasons such as security.
 
However, Messi himself never made requests to any parish in the archdiocese for a sacramental marriage, the priest said.
 
Fr. Bellante added that Archbishop Martín “would be happy” to provide Messi with the Sacrament of Marriage if it were requested and held in an approved place.
 
“(T)he doors remain open and the truth is that the archbishop told me yesterday: If, when they return to Rosario next year for their vacations…want to receive the Sacrament of Marriage, it would be offered with pleasure,” he said.

Australia Wearables Market

The latest report by IMARC Group, titled “Australia Wearables Market: Industry Trends, Share, Size, Growth, Opportunity and Forecast 2025-2033,” offers a comprehensive analysis of the Australia wearables market growth. The report also includes competitor and regional analysis, along with a breakdown of segments within the industry. The Australia wearables market size reached USD 2.65 Billion in 2024. Looking forward, IMARC Group expects the market to reach USD 9.83 Billion by 2033, exhibiting a growth rate (CAGR) of 14.30% during 2025-2033.

Report Attributes:

Base Year: 2024

Forecast Years: 2025-2033

Historical Years: 2019-2024

Market Size in 2024: USD 2.65 Billion

Market Forecast in 2033: USD 9.83 Billion

Market Growth Rate 2025-2033: 14.30%

For an in-depth analysis, you can refer to a sample copy of the report:

https://www.imarcgroup.com/australia-wearables-market/requestsample

Australia Wearables Market Overview

• The Australia wearables market is growing quickly because more people are caring about their health, tracking fitness, and using smart tech in their everyday lives.

• People are buying smartwatches, fitness bands, and health trackers to keep an eye on how much they move, their heart rate, sleep patterns, and stress levels.

• These devices use smart sensors and AI to give accurate health information.

• The use of IoT and 5G is making these wearables better connected, allowing data to be shared in real time.

• This helps with early health prevention and allows doctors to monitor patients from a distance.

• Wearables are becoming popular in care for older adults, with features like fall detection, emergency alerts, and medical sensors that help them live independently and connect with telehealth services.

• Many Australians who care about fashion are also choosing wearables as stylish accessories.

• Brands are creating special edition models and working with designers to mix tech with fashion.

Key Features and Trends of Australia Wearables Market

• Fitness and wellness devices are becoming more popular, especially because insurance companies are offering rewards to people who consistently monitor their health information.

• There is also growth in products designed for older adults, with features like easier controls, bigger screens, and better connections to healthcare professionals.

• Fashion and high-end brands are now creating stylish, personalized wearables that attract younger, fashion-conscious customers.

• Wearables are also improving through services like monthly subscriptions, smart analysis using artificial intelligence, and teamwork with phone companies.

• More attention is being paid to protecting personal data and keeping wearables secure, which helps people feel more confident about using these devices.

Growth Drivers of Australia Wearables Market

• More people are becoming aware of their health and want to track their body metrics as they happen.

• New technologies in sensors, artificial intelligence, and internet connections are making this possible.

• More hospitals and healthcare providers are offering remote care and monitoring options.

• Many companies are using wearable devices to help employees stay healthy and work more efficiently.

• Consumers are liking wearables that look good, have many features, and can be customized to fit their needs.

Browse Full Report with TOC & List of Figures:

https://www.imarcgroup.com/australia-wearables-market

Innovation & Market Demand of Australia Wearables Market

• Device makers are launching modular, rugged, and secure wearables to meet diverse user needs.

• Integration with health-tech platforms and subscription services is driving recurring revenue and user engagement.

• Hybrid wearables, combining classic aesthetics with smart features, are gaining popularity among style-conscious users.

• Partnerships with health insurers and corporate wellness programs are incentivizing wearable adoption.

• The market is responding to demand for medical-grade, easy-to-use devices for seniors and chronic disease management.

Australia Wearables Market Opportunities and Challenges

• Ongoing innovation in health tracking, connectivity, and design is creating new market opportunities.

• Ensuring data privacy and cybersecurity is essential for consumer confidence.

• Competition among global and local brands is intensifying, driving continuous product differentiation.

• Educating consumers on the benefits and safe use of wearables is crucial for sustained adoption.

• Adapting to fast-evolving technology and consumer preferences requires agility and investment.

Australia Wearables Market Analysis

• Smartwatches, fitness trackers, ear-worn devices, and head-mounted displays are leading product categories.

• Both online and offline channels are important, with e-commerce gaining share due to convenience and variety.

• Regional demand is highest in New South Wales, Victoria, and Queensland, reflecting population density and tech adoption.

• The market is maintaining strong growth momentum, supported by innovation, lifestyle changes, and expanding use cases.

Australia Wearables Market Segmentation:

By Product:

• Smartwatches

• Wireless Headphones

• Head-Mounted Displays (HMDs)

• Smart Bands

• Others

By Distribution Channel:

• Online

• Offline

By Region:

• Australia Capital Territory & New South Wales

• Victoria & Tasmania

• Queensland

• Northern Territory & Southern Australia

• Western Australia

Australia Wearables Market News & Recent Developments:

• October 2024: Samsung launched the Galaxy Ring in Australia, debuting advanced wellness tracking and personalized insights.

• December 2024: Apple’s AirPods Pro 2 received approval as medical devices in Australia, enabling use as hearing aids and for hearing tests.

Australia Wearables Market Key Players:

• Apple

• Samsung Electronics

• Fitbit (Google)

• Garmin

• Huawei

• Fossil Group

• Sony

• Xiaomi

• Amazfit

• Bose

Key Highlights of the Report:

1. Market Performance (2019-2024)

2. Market Outlook (2025-2033)

3. COVID-19 Impact on the Market

4. Porter’s Five Forces Analysis

5. Strategic Recommendations

6. Historical, Current and Future Market Trends

7. Market Drivers and Success Factors

8. SWOT Analysis

9. Structure of the Market

10. Value Chain Analysis

11. Comprehensive Mapping of the Competitive Landscape

Note: If you need specific information that is not currently within the scope of the report, we can provide it to you as a part of the customization.

Ask analyst for your customized sample:

https://www.imarcgroup.com/request?type=report&id=32252&flag=E

FAQs: Australia Wearables Market

Q1: What is driving the growth of the Australia wearables market?

A: Health awareness, fitness tracking, technological innovation, and demand for fashionable, multifunctional devices are key growth drivers.

Q2: Which product segments are most popular?

A: Smartwatches, fitness trackers, ear-worn devices, and head-mounted displays lead the market.

Q3: How are wearables used in elderly care?

A: They provide fall detection, health monitoring, emergency alerts, and integration with telehealth services.

Q4: What trends are shaping product development?

A: Fashion-forward design, AI-powered analytics, and integration with health-tech platforms are leading trends.

Q5: Who are the major players in the Australia wearables market?

A: Leading companies include Apple, Samsung, Fitbit, Garmin, Huawei, Fossil, Sony, Xiaomi, Amazfit, and Bose.

Contact Us:

134 N 4th St. Brooklyn, NY 11249, USA

Email: sales@imarcgroup.com

Tel No: (D) +91 120 433 0800

United States: +1-631-791-1145

About Us:

IMARC Group is a leading market research company that provides management strategy and market research worldwide. We partner with clients in all sectors and regions to identify their highest-value opportunities, address their most critical challenges, and transform their businesses. Our solutions include comprehensive market intelligence, custom consulting, and actionable insights to help organizations make informed decisions and achieve sustainable growth.

This release was published on openPR.

Have you met your new AI fitness coach yet? If not, they’re out there waiting for you, in whatever app or device you choose. If you buy into the hype, your new AI personal trainer will be ready and willing to give you the advice and workout plans you need, not to mention solving all your fitness issues in one fell swoop.

Yeah, right.

If there’s one thing we’ve all learned about AI in the last couple of years, it’s that it comes in many flavors. Good and bad. Straightforward and duplicitous. Complete and sketchy. As someone who has worked in tech and written about AI, my approach has always been to dig in and understand how it works, its strengths, and how to address its limitations. So let’s go there.

The AI fitness info

Any investigation of AI-based fitness coaching begins with the quality of the information it gathers. For fitness executives like Jonathan Shottan, the Chief Product and Content Officer of Tonal, the goal is to use AI fitness information to create what he calls “training modalities” like Pilates. The idea is to give Tonal trainers complete information they can use with both elite athletes and ordinary folks looking to improve their fitness level.

“Each new modality we introduce unlocks new types of movement patterns, data streams, and user behaviors,” Shottan explains.

That means gathering information on various lifestyles to understand the components of fitness, such as daily recovery, as well as covering different demographics, e.g., beginners and aging adults. The idea is to build what Shottan calls a “digital twin” for every existing Tonal member, and to have that twin become more complete, fitness-wise, for each new member.

How you can use this AI fitness information

While the information and data set Shottan comes up with might be proprietary to Tonal, that doesn’t mean you can’t follow your own versions of that process from whatever app you choose.

You, too, can build your own digital twin and get recommendations from any number of fitness apps that incorporate AI coaching capability. Whether it’s Fitbod or Jefit for strength training or Runna or TrainAsOne for running, you can find an app that offers coaching in the form of workout and fitness plans, along with recommendations.

The key to getting those recommendations right is the quality of your questions and prompts. To get an idea of how this works, let’s come up with some sample questions in a couple of basic areas.

Strength training. It’s laudable to want to get stronger, but do you have the right plan in place to do it? Are you looking to build a stronger core or add weight to your lifting program? Working with dumbbells, machines, or from a bench? Are you performing the correct number of reps, and are you targeting all the necessary muscle groups?   

Speed and agility. If you’re a distance runner or you have specific speed goals, the questions and prompts change considerably. Are you focusing on HIIT training, or do you have weekly mileage goals? Working too hard? Adding in the right amount of recovery?

These questions may be basic, but if your questions and prompts are off base, you won’t get the answers you need to improve. Similarly, you need to formulate the right prompts in areas like recovery, sleep quality, and nutrition, which is where the link to your trainer reenters the picture.

Using AI to make workout adjustments with your trainer

While it might seem like AI fitness coaches have the chops to replace their real-life counterparts, that’s a bit of an illusion. Clayton Kim, the CTO and co-founder of Flykitt, has helped build an app designed to get a great workout while traveling, but he sees the basic role of a trainer remaining intact.

“Half of the job of a good coach is to help their athlete make real, tangible progress over the course of months and years,” Kim states. AI coaches can excel at this, he indicates, because they can provide both basic fitness goals and motivators.

“But buy-in is key,” he adds. “The creation of a tailored program based on assessment and goals is the easiest piece for AI to do, and a good coach adapts the program based on the athlete’s abilities and how they are performing day-to-day.”

It’s important to remember that any training plan set up by an AI fitness coach represents a starting point, just like it would be for a celebrity trainer or the trainer from your local gym. The evolution of a training plan is what separates the quality of the coaching, and it’s really all about making the right adjustments.

“A good trainer will make these adjustments for you, but if you can’t access a person, AI can be good at modifying if it has the data it needs,” Kim says. “You can select a mobility workout versus a high-intensity workout when you’re not feeling a hundred percent.  You can also indicate how recovered you are, so that’s another great way to get the workout you need that day, even if you don’t want to change styles.”

Do you still need a real personal trainer?

Given the way AI fitness coaches can fill in the gaps and help you make adjustments, it’s fair to ask if you can ditch your personal trainer and save a few bucks in the process. For Kim, the answer is an emphatic “no.”

“The human impact of a coach cannot be underestimated,” he says. “Just by having another human being physically present or holding you accountable, it makes a tremendous difference in how well you stick to your program, especially in the long term.”

What AI does, Kim adds, is mimic the tricks of the trade that coaches use, along with some of the rules of thumb, guidelines, and strategies. It’s also especially appealing to both Gen Z and Gen Alpha, Kim says, because there’s “a much, much higher affinity to casually talking to an AI.”

Realistic expectations and the future of AI fitness coaches

From entertainment to the workplace, any discussion of AI tends to focus on the future, both in the long and short term, and fitness is no exception. It won’t change the world right away, but it’s carving out a significant role.

“I don’t see AI completely replacing the human touch, [but] virtual fitness coaches have great potential to help trainers manage their client loads, continue progress outside of the gym, or maintain fitness goals while traveling or outside of a normal routine,” Kim summarizes.

“The same way physical therapists have started to implement AI to help their clients complete assignments in between sessions, for example, AI fitness coaches can be a complement for those who still want that in-person touch.”

The future, though, looks far different for AI fitness coaches. “I expect to see a live, vision-powered coach coming onto the market soon,” Kim predicts. “Gyms will start integrating AI programs into their apps, and some will start providing live form feedback at various exercise stations. Expect to see cameras popping up in gyms because it’s hard to use your phone.”

That, in turn, will likely lead to in-person encounters with a coach that isn’t necessarily a flesh-and-blood counterpart.

“Eventually, AI coaches will become avatars you can FaceTime call through your workout,” Kim says, “giving you live updates and motivation as you go. Or with cameras in the gym, you can reach out when you need form assists or changes to your plan.”