Google Inc (GOOG), NIKE, Inc. (NKE), Apple Inc. (AAPL): Will Wearable Technology Take Off?

We live in a society that seems to be attached to our smartphones. A device originally intended to be used to make and receive phone calls is now a receptacle for our entire lives–from checking e-mails to depositing checks to playing games and beyond.

As technology aficionados watch these new, exciting developments, investors are keeping an eye on them, as well. When it comes to technology, timing is everything, and three companies are winning investors’ confidence by putting themselves ahead of competitors.

Peripheral vision

Google Inc (NASDAQ:GOOG) has been the talk of the tech world for the better part of a year now with Google Inc (NASDAQ:GOOG) Glass. Glass is worn as one would wear eyeglasses, making it the ultimate in wearable technology, presenting hands-free access to a wearer’s current messages and social media updates. Google Inc (NASDAQ:GOOG) Glass users can take video of the image a person is currently viewing, snap a picture, or video chat with others, all through voice commands, all hands-free.

But even before Google Glass hits stores, rumors of competing products have begun. The price tag on Google Inc (NASDAQ:GOOG) Glass is rumored to be in the $1,500 range, making it unreachable to the average consumer for the time being. But Google’s earnings are already ahead of much of its competition, with the company’s stock recently surpassing the $800 mark for the first time ever. With Google Glass poised to hit the market, it might be the best time to focus investment dollars on Google stock. Google Inc (NASDAQ:GOOG)’s continued emphasis on innovation make it a best bet for any investor, year after year.

Tracking health

NIKE, Inc. (NYSE:NKE) has jumped into the wearable technology trend with both feet, launching its FuelBand last year. The band interacts with an iPhone to track a wearer’s activity levels in order to help them stay fit. The product, released in early 2012, has helped the company enjoy continued earnings growth and has prompted NIKE, Inc. (NYSE:NKE) to continue to explore new technology opportunities through its Nike Accelerator program. The company announced in its recent quarterly earnings call that it currently has ten separate startups building apps for Nike+ products.

As technology continues to power consumers’ lives, NIKE, Inc. (NYSE:NKE) plans to use technology to help people achieve their fitness goals. This includes virtual reality games, digital personal coaching, and a gaming platform that turns family fitness into a game. Investors are closely watching NIKE, Inc. (NYSE:NKE)’s foray into wearable tech, including a shoe that tracks someone’s performance on the basketball court. But is it enough to keep Nike stock on the upswing? It’s a safe bet. NIKE, Inc. (NYSE:NKE) is a longstanding name for a reason–the company never stops evolving, making it a winner with investors.