Meet Faisal Kawoosa, Chief Analyst at TechArc, an avid market researcher, analytics enthusiast and a consultant in the technology domain.The Catalyst speaks with him about his role as a jury member at the renowned GLOMO Awards, gaining insights into SmartTech, consumer perspectives on tech products, and the widespread adoption of technology across various industries.
First of all, congratulations on being invited to be a judge at the GLOMO Awards 2025! Can you share with us how you feel about this honour and what it means to you?
The GLOMO Awards are the Oscars of the technology world. A prestigious recognition of excellence in the mobile and digital industries is the focus of this event. They are considered the industry’s gold standard and honour those who contribute to innovation. This year’s event will be the 30th edition and will be held in Barcelona. The opportunity to serve on the jury there is an immense source of pride for me, and I am humbled by the thought of being selected to represent India on such a prestigious platform. The invitation to this event seems like a great reward to me as I have worked in this field for a long time.
Looking ahead to the GLOMO Awards 2025, are there any particular categories or innovations you are especially excited to see and judge?
Every year, the GLOMO awards feature a diverse range of categories and honours. This year, there are seven categories encompassing 33 awards. The organizers have a thoughtful approach, reaching out to juries to understand their preferences and areas of expertise, while also providing recommendations to judges related to various categories.
I am serving as a jury member for the Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTN) category. It is the next big thing in mobile devices category, focusing on the integration of Non-Terrestrial Networks (NTN). An NTN is a communication network that combines airborne, spaceborne, and terrestrial assets. These hybrid networks leverage satellite communication (SATCOM) technology to enhance and expand existing cellular communication capabilities. Also referred to as Device-to-Device (D2D) communication, NTN represents a critical innovation for the future of mobile connectivity. Our jury panel comprises five members, and together, we will evaluate a wide range of NTN technologies to identify the most ground-breaking advancements in this space.
How do you foresee the convergence of mobile technologies with industries like healthcare, entertainment, and smart homes?
For mobiles, there are two key aspects to consider: user interface and companion devices for consumers. Mobile devices dominate this category, as they have become the most preferred gadget for individuals. From a consumer’s perspective, mobile devices are fantastic—they represent a practical use case and offer immense value. Every individual views mobile devices as their primary, go-to gadget, making them an integral part of daily life.
In terms of industries, it provides them with an equitable platform in which they can reach out to a wide range of potential audiences. The role of mobile devices has long evolved beyond communication. Today, they encompass a variety of advanced features, transforming them into tools for everything from discovery to delivery in industries like healthcare, education, and entertainment. In regions like the Western world, mobile technology is mature, while in emerging markets like India, it’s becoming a default solution for a range of needs—entertainment, education, smart home integration, and more. For a significant portion of the global population, mobile devices are indispensable.
While some may perceive mobile devices as losing their charm or becoming a nuisance, the reality is that they remain paramount. There is a large population that depends on them, demonstrating that their importance in both the personal and industrial environment will continue to grow.
Smart devices, including wearables and connected appliances, have become increasingly popular. Kindly share your inputs on this growing cult.
Yes, we are seeing an increased usage of wearable devices. Consumers are integrating such products into their daily lifestyle because of hobbies, behaviours, and habits, making them indispensable. For a health-conscious individual, devices like fitness trackers help monitor activity and progress. For music enthusiasts, ear buds or smart audio devices enhance the listening experience. These gadgets add value by aligning with personal interests and lifestyle choices, turning them into essential tools rather than mere accessories.
For the second cohort, wearables are more than functional devices; they are fashion statements. Smart watches and other accessories blend technology with style, appealing to those who prioritize aesthetics and a modern lifestyle. These devices enhance the fashion quotient while offering practical benefits, making them a preferred choice for trend-conscious consumers.
People across all walks of life are embracing the shift from legacy products to smart alternatives. Just as feature phones evolved into smartphones, we now see a transition to connected cars, smart homes, and advanced wearables like smart watches, headphones, and rings, redefining convenience and functionality in everyday life.
What do you think are the biggest challenges and opportunities for brands in this domain of Wearable devices over the next few years?
Opportunities for Brands
Wearable devices present significant opportunities for brands by opening new markets for personal products. As smartphones drive adoption, wearables are expected to see parallel growth in sales. These devices also offer valuable data collection opportunities, particularly in health tracking—monitoring metrics like weight and activity levels. By leveraging AI ethically, brands can utilize this data to unlock predictive analysis, enabling personalized experiences and driving innovation in the wearable space.
Challenges
The wearable market needs to declutter as many players are flooding it with products that lack real value. This mushroom growth has led to consumers abandoning devices within months due to limited utility. Brands must focus on understanding consumer needs and delivering meaningful solutions. Beyond fitness, there’s a demand for devices that assist in monitoring seniors and children, enabling care even when users are away. By addressing these needs thoughtfully, brands can create lasting value and build trust in the market.
What are the most in-demand features consumers look for in SmartTech devices today?
Consumers today seek SmartTech devices that offer advanced features to enhance their daily lives. AI capabilities are at the forefront, with users curious about how AI integrates into their devices and what it can do for them. The demand for 5G-enabled devices is also growing, driven by the need for faster connectivity. Battery life and management remain critical, as users prioritize devices that can keep up with their active lifestyles. In Smart TVs, consumers look for immersive gaming experiences and value-adding features that elevate entertainment. Overall, the focus is on innovation, performance, and practical utility.
How has consumer trust in data privacy impacted the adoption of SmartTech?
Consumer trust in data privacy plays a critical role in the adoption of SmartTech. Ethical consent mechanisms are essential—users should not be forced to accept intrusive app permissions like access to the microphone, camera, or contacts without clear justification. Developers must educate consumers about why such permissions are needed and offer transparent choices.
The digital world faces trust issues, especially with data sharing. Practices like sharing consumer information with third parties without consent erode trust. For instance, if a customer provides data to a bank for a loan or credit card, but this information is later accessed by another bank, it damages the customer experience. Companies must prioritize ethical data handling to build lasting trust and encourage wider adoption of SmartTech.
How do consumers typically prioritize between cost, functionality, and brand loyalty in the SmartTech market?
We did a study and found that in the SmartTech market, consumers are gradually shifting their priorities beyond just features like camera megapixels, which were once key sales triggers but no longer drive purchases alone. Today, after-sales service plays a crucial role in decision-making, as a positive post-purchase experience fosters brand loyalty and repeat purchases.
Functionality is valued differently by individuals, depending on their usage patterns—such as indoor vs. outdoor photography needs. While cost remains a factor, consumers are increasingly willing to invest in brands that offer reliable support, ensuring a balance between functionality, affordability, and trust.
How do cultural differences impact the speed and scale of technology adoption in global markets?
Cultural differences significantly impact the speed and scale of technology adoption in global markets. In regions with large populations like our country, technology may be introduced widely, but the per-person investment often remains low. While new innovations are being adopted, the key challenge lies in sustaining and scaling these technologies effectively. Success depends on how well the innovations are integrated into daily life and maintained over time, ensuring they remain relevant and accessible across diverse cultural and economic landscapes.
What are the top emerging technologies that businesses should focus on over the next five years?
Over the next five years, businesses should focus on emerging technologies like AI, data analytics, ad tech, mar tech, and advancements in connectivity, including satellite-based solutions. AI offers immense potential to enhance customer experiences and drive business growth by making data understandable and actionable. Businesses can leverage AI to personalize services, improve operational efficiency, and deliver meaningful insights, creating delight for customers and value for stakeholders.
However, the journey to harness these technologies effectively begins with addressing foundational gaps. Startups, especially those from non-metro areas, often lack clarity about digital marketing and performance marketing—critical components for successful D2C ventures. These businesses must invest in ad tech and mar tech to strengthen their marketing strategies and enhance outreach.
Moreover, connectivity remains a vital factor in scaling innovation. With cell density still lagging in India, exploring satellite-based technologies presents significant opportunities to bridge the gap and unlock new possibilities. By embracing these emerging technologies and addressing weak links, businesses can position themselves for sustainable growth and innovation in the years ahead.
As technology continues to advance, its adoption across sectors will shape the future of innovation, efficiency, and digital transformation. The interaction rightly highlights the various types of tech products becoming an integral part of consumers’ lifestyles. However, it also sheds light on the challenges and opportunities for brands competing for a larger market share and beyond.
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