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Here's Where Wearable Tech is Headed Over the Next Four Years -- In 2 Charts

By Chris Neiger – Apr 2, 2015 at 2:00PM

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Wearable technology growth will explode over the next four years, leaving Apple and other device makers poised to benefit.

A new report from IDC shows that wearable technology is set for huge growth over the next four years. This year, tech companies will ship nearly 46 million wearable devices -- a 133% year-over-year increase -- and by 2019 that number will spike to 126 million.

While new types of wearables will emerge, like clothing and earwear, wrist-worn devices will continue to dominate. IDC says the Apple (AAPL -0.40%) Watch, Motorola's Moto 360, and Samsung's Gear watches will drive growth for smart wearables, but simpler devices will still be a big part of the market four years from now.

Click through the slideshow below to see where wearables are headed, and how Apple and other companies will benefit.

Chris Neiger has no position in any stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool recommends Apple. The Motley Fool owns shares of Apple. We Fools may not all hold the same opinions, but we all believe that considering a diverse range of insights makes us better investors. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.

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