Determinants of the Adoption of Wearable Devices for Health and Fitness: A Meta-analytical Study

Smart wearable technology devices have enabled digital tracking and management of health and fitness parameters. To explore the antecedents and consequences of the adoption of wearable devices, we did a series of meta-analysis using the theoretical frameworks of the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM), the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT), and the integrated conceptual model. Fifty-six studies identified from fifty-two articles were short-listed for this meta-analysis. Results from the combined effect size analysis confirmed all the TAM and UTAUT relationships. Along with constructs from traditional technology acceptance theories, other constructs such as innovativeness, compatibility, self-efficacy, and social influence had a significant impact on the behavioral intention to use wearable devices. This study also demonstrates the similarities in the effect sizes for constructs with similar meanings derived in the literature. The combined effects of TAM and UTAUT constructs were compared while examining the adoption of wearable devices. Many of the relationships analyzed in this research were moderated by culture and user type. Implications for research and practice have been discussed.