Exploring The Design Space of Sharing and Privacy Mechanisms in Wearable Fitness Platforms

Users of wearable fitness devices share different pieces of information with a variety of recipients to support their health and fitness goals. Device platforms could ease this sharing and empower users to protect their information by providing controls and features centered around these common sharing goals. However, there is little research that examines existing mechanisms for sharing and privacy management, and what needs users have beyond their current controls. In this paper, we analyze five popular wearable device platforms to develop taxonomies of mechanisms based on common sharing patterns and boundaries, as well as data collection awareness. With this analysis, we identify design opportunities for supporting users’ sharing and privacy needs.