What are the lifestyle trends you’ll see coming to the fore in 2016? Our experts decode the choices that will drive tech, fitness and luxury over the New Year...

TECHNOLOGY

Smartphones to be affordable (by Tech writer Nimish Sawant)

One of the major trends that we saw this year was the rise in affordable smartphones with high-end features, in a large part fuelled by new Chinese players. As we go into 2016, the onslaught of Chinese-made smartphones will continue and we will be seeing more new brands entering the Indian market. Smartphones are already smart and I don’t see any change in terms of design and form factors. But the real game changer will be services and user experiences that these smartphones will offer. Innovation will most likely be on the software side than on the hardware side.

Wearable technology to be embraced

Wearable technology including smart watches and fitness trackers will surely see a spike in 2016. It is only a matter of time before the Chinese smartphone makers get into smartwatch segment as well and make the segment affordable. Smart home devices such as remote-controlled LED lights, air purifiers and smart security systems will also start making inroads in some way. Also virtual reality headsets will become more popular in 2016.

Fitness trackers will gain popularity as the idea they are selling, becoming a fitter version of you, has a lot of takers in a country like ours. The real challenge will lie in adding value to the data that is collected by the fitness trackers, so companies, which are able to crack that, will see more success.

LIFESTYLE

By luxury brand and image consultant Chhaya Momaya

As much as people say that there is a decline in luxury goods, I feel otherwise. I believe once people are accustomed to a certain lifestyle, there is little chance of them going back. The margins may have reduced but people are still indulging in expensive goods. For instance, 2015 saw the world’s most expensive diamond being sold. So where is the decline?

‘Pure’ gems a hit:

A few years ago, individuals preferred purchasing substitutes for gems. But today, most want real emeralds and diamonds, which is a wiser purchase. Rubies are promoted furiously but Indians are still apprehensive about the opulence it brings. Hence, emerald is a popular favourite since it is subtle on the eyes.

Luxury homes see investment: Since living in a joint family is a huge part of our culture, families see more sense in investing in luxury homes. It is common if the family has a huge business. Luxury homes work as a huge investment for them, and of course works perfectly in their routine.

FITNESS AND HEALTH

Exercise no more a punishment: We’ve been seeing positive change in the Indian fitness industry. Today’s youth is more aware about various fitness routines. I believe that people need to focus on holistic health rather than just weight loss. That is definitely a byproduct of living a healthy lifestyle.

Wearable fitness devices to be a rage: These come in very handy since it helps you keep a track on the number of steps you take in a day, the amount of sleep you get in the night. It also has another edge since you can set goals together with your friends and work towards getting healthy. Since these devices are practical and complement our lifestyles, they will become popular.

Yoga all the way: You will definitely hear more about yoga this year as well. Any form of exercise, if done with the true mechanics, is most beneficial. However, there are very few forms of exercise that revitalise your mind as much as yoga — it helps you de-clutter your thoughts, shift perspective and focus. This practice has truly lasted the test of time and hence isn’t going anywhere in the near future.

Variety in a fitness routine: Twerkout, cheerobics and punk rope are touted to be a few fitness trends that will gain momentum this year.
People like variety in their fitness routine, so I think these will be received well. However, we have to wait and see which of these stand the test of time and don’t cause injuries. I’m a big fan and believer in pilates and I think that 2016 is the year most people will discover the wonders of pilates and start practising it more.