Life is changing fast - don’t let your clients get left behind…

Technology has not changed at the speed it is right for now for a generation and our industry needs to embrace, understand and follow the trends. Marketing spend and the promotion of products, a brand, web site or a company’s profile is high up there fighting for budgets along with other departments such as HR, R&D, Sales and Finance. So to ensure marketing secures the right level of budget from a business, its marketing and promotion of its objectives have to be modern - connected and measurable.

To stay in tune with its target market and audience, a marketeer has to understand what’s happening in the consumer tech market to ensure its promotional products reflect what consumers will keep, use and appreciate. 

Promotional technology items hit these objectives and when mixed with the latest in sustainable, ethical and social manufacturing techniques can’t be ignored. So what’s trending…

The consumer electronics industry is rapidly evolving, with several emerging trends poised to significantly impact the market in the coming years - these trends then knock onto our industry with the development of accessories and products which complement the global giants of tech such as Google, Apple, Microsoft etc guaranteeing product adoption and satisfaction for the brand / company with its target audience.

Key developments include:

1. Artificial Intelligence (AI) Integration

AI is becoming a central component in consumer electronics, enhancing device intelligence and personalization. From AI-powered voice assistants to smart home hubs that adapt to user preferences, devices are increasingly intuitive, offering tailored experiences. This is the latest and newest area for product development for our industry and look out soon for products that “listen”, think and react to brand names, logos and messaging. With the huge growth of AI start ups and systems / off shoots this area will become a lucrative one for Promotional Marketing and our industry.

2. Sustainability and Eco-Friendly Designs

Environmental concerns are driving manufacturers to adopt sustainable practices. This includes using recyclable materials, designing energy-efficient products, and implementing eco-friendly production processes. Consumers are showing a preference for products that align with environmental values, influencing purchasing decisions. This finally is happening in the retail sector which will in effect open up more choice for retail brands to be used in the B2B market as companies continue to want better quality and brand appeal to their next promotional product - brands that are adopting this focus now include Philips, Polaroid, BOSE, etc…

3. Expansion of the Internet of Things (IoT)

The IoT is creating interconnected ecosystems where devices communicate seamlessly. Smart home systems, health monitoring devices, and wearable technologies are becoming integral parts of daily life, enhancing convenience and efficiency. All devices will become smarter and connected but of course need to be powered and charged. This will continue to drive demand for charging cables, battery packs, wireless charging and the next generation of Bluetooth device.

4. Advanced Wearable Technology

Wearables are evolving beyond fitness tracking, incorporating health diagnostics, augmented reality (AR) features, and interactive functionalities. These devices offer real-time health insights and immersive experiences, integrating smoothly with other smart devices. Health will continue to be a strong focus for our sector and hydration, monitoring and reporting gadgets will become more popular over the next 6 months.

5. Flexible and Foldable Devices

Innovations in display technology are leading to foldable and flexible devices, such as smartphones and tablets. These products combine portability with larger screen sizes, offering enhanced functionality without compromising convenience.

6. Transition from 5G to 6G Connectivity

While 5G has significantly improved internet speeds and connectivity, research into 6G technology is underway and likely to be around within 5 years, promising even faster data rates, lower latency, and the potential for new applications like real-time holographic communication.

7. Rise of AI-Powered Robotics

Advancements in AI are leading to more sophisticated consumer robots, including personal assistants and interactive companions. These robots can perform tasks, provide entertainment, and offer companionship, integrating into daily routines.

These trends reflect a shift towards more intelligent, sustainable, and interconnected consumer electronics, aiming to enhance user experiences and meet evolving technological demands. As discussed these trends will drive innovation in promotional products around technology and as we are seeing this is building the demand for these products within our sector - stay connected and keep your clients up to date to take advantage of these trends.

For help or advice about how promo tech can be used in your next campaign, get in touch with the team @ DTI - contact 0844 875 7624 or sales@desktopideas.com.