Today I bring you (me) the first throw-away hearing aid. The Songbird Flexfit is made for those who need part-time hearing assistance. It’s a one-size-fits-all aid at an affordable price with a fairly inconspicuous earpiece. The design is made from Cicoil and is a highly flexible, miniature flat cable.
Implications - This trend hints towards the future of healthcare. People are recovering from their losses from the recession and healthcare is a top priority, but can be very pricey. The idea of disposable healthcare that's affordable to the masses is something that is being experimented with now -- and this disposable hearing aid is only the beginning. Businesses that offer a service or product for less money than competitors (even if their product may have a shorter shelf life) will appeal to credit crunched individuals.
Disposable Hearing Aids
Cheap + Disposable + Wasteful = Perfect for U.S.
Trend Themes
1. Disposable Healthcare - The disposable hearing aid hints towards the future of affordable healthcare and presents opportunities for businesses to offer inexpensive, effective products or services.
2. Part-time Solutions - The Songbird Flexfit cater to those who need part-time hearing assistance, and this trend opens up possibilities for businesses to create cheap part-time solutions in other healthcare areas.
3. Inexpensive Innovations - The concept of creating less expensive, disposable everyday products presents opportunities for businesses in various industries to create innovative products that are affordable and convenient to the mass market.
Industry Implications
1. Healthcare - This disposable hearing aid trend offers opportunities for businesses to create affordable healthcare solutions for those who cannot afford expensive treatments or therapies.
2. Consumer Electronics - The disposable hearing aid trend creates room for businesses to create innovative, inexpensive everyday electronics that cater to the mass market.
3. Consumer Goods - The idea of disposable everyday products creates opportunities for businesses to innovate in the consumer goods industry by creating affordable, convenient products with shorter shelf lives.