The wearables landscape is entering a new phase as smart glasses gain momentum and begin to reshape consumer expectations. Futuresource Consulting’s Global Wearables Market Outlook 2025 report highlights how this emerging category is influencing the broader connected ecosystem and driving new growth opportunities.

According to the report, wrist-worn wearables are still growing and are expected to rise 4.8 percent globally by the end of the year, reaching nearly 210 million units and generating a retail value increase of 5.2 percent. While these devices continue to anchor the market, other form factors are starting to push the category forward.

“The story in 2025 is one of nuanced evolution, not frenetic explosion,” says Nikolaos Tzoumerkas, Lead Analyst at Futuresource Consulting. “Smartwatches and sports watches are still part of the equation, but smart glasses are redefining what a wearable can be. They are merging lifestyle, health and connectivity in entirely new ways, and consumers are sitting up and paying attention.”

Futuresource forecasts that smart glasses will ship 2.6 million units in 2025, up from 1.6 million in the previous year, making them one of the fastest-growing segments in consumer tech. Momentum is being led by Meta’s collaborations with Ray-Ban and Oakley, where fashion-forward designs meet integrated cameras, AI assistants and seamless connectivity. The result is lightweight eyewear that delivers real-time, hands-free interaction while maintaining a stylish look.

Smartwatches remain the dominant wearable category with an estimated 94 million units shipped in 2024 and yearly growth of roughly 8 percent. Apple continues to lead the segment with a 48 percent global share, supported by the popularity of the Series 11 and Ultra 3 models. New FDA-cleared health features, including hypertension alerts, also help solidify Apple’s position.

Sports watches are advancing with AI-driven adaptive coaching, using real-time biometric data to personalise training and recovery. Brands such as Huawei, Xiaomi and Amazfit are expanding their presence across developing markets, while Garmin, Suunto and Polar continue to hold strong in performance-focused regions in the West.

As wearables evolve, cross-device integration is becoming smoother than ever. Smartwatches, smart glasses and mobile devices are forming a more unified ecosystem that enables real-time interaction and personalised insights. On-device AI processing is also enhancing user experiences by improving privacy, reducing power consumption and delivering faster responses.

The Global Wearables Market Outlook 2025 report offers five-year forecasts and deep analysis across smartwatches, sports watches, kids’ wearables and smart glasses, along with detailed insights into vendor performance, feature development and shifting category trends.