Don't get too excited now, because 3D-printed sneakers won't be available anytime soon, yet it's a concept that Nike recently spoke about at a summit for tech site GeekWire. Nike's COO, Eric Sprunk, says, "Do I envision a future where [Nike] might still own the file, from an IP perspective — because it’s a Nike product; you can’t have just anybody make a Nike product — and you can manufacture that either in your home or we will do it for you at our store? Oh yeah, that’s not that far away."
With Nike ID taking the world by storm, the idea of creating one's own 3D-printed sneakers at home is only a natural next step. After all, people are already able to 3D print shoes in general.
3D-Printed Sneakers
Nike's COO Eric Sprunk Envisions a Tech-Heavy DIY Future
Trend Themes
1. Personalized DIY Manufacturing - The concept of creating customized 3D-printed sneakers at home reflects the growing trend of personalized DIY manufacturing.
2. Consumer-controlled IP - Nike's suggestion of consumers owning the IP file for 3D-printed sneakers presents a disruptive innovation opportunity for a new era of consumer-controlled intellectual property.
3. Home-based 3D Printing - The possibility of manufacturing 3D-printed sneakers in the comfort of one's own home highlights the emerging trend of home-based 3D printing technologies.
Industry Implications
1. Sportswear - The sportswear industry could benefit from integrating personalized 3D-printed sneakers, allowing consumers to create unique and customized footwear.
2. Intellectual Property - The intellectual property industry could explore new business models that empower consumers to own and control the IP file for 3D-printed products.
3. 3D Printing - The 3D printing industry stands to gain from the growing demand for home-based 3D printing technologies, as more consumers seek to manufacture products like sneakers at home.