The rise in self-data demand has led to an increase of specialized gadgets and apps, bombarding us with a wealth of options from crowdfunding sites and beyond. But is it worth the trouble?

We can’t deny that lifelogging and quantified self apps, gadgets and services are transforming our lives.  And thanks to some of the earliest self-tracking apps, we’re now aware of the fact that being active and eating healthy is not enough in obtaining overall wellness — we still need enough rest, and a proper support system.

Not only has the quantified-self revolution led to more gadgets, but more data pools.  Each gadget comes with its own app, coupling a software service with device hardware.  That’s more gadgets to wear and keep track of, and also more app accounts to manage regularly.  Topping it all off is the fact that the networks used to transmit data between devices and apps presents a growing opportunity for personal data to be compromised.

SiliconANGLE’s Anthony Coln pointed out in a recent post how the proliferation of connected devices is in some ways posing more problems than there are solutions.  Here’s three primary downsides to the self-quantified movement:

3 Disadvantages to the Quantified Self Movement

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Too many apps, services and data to manage

As mentioned above, there are so many apps, gadgets, services and data to manage that consumers are left confused as to which device, app, service to use, and what data they should be focusing on.

There is no one app or gadget that caters to all of your quantified self needs, and even if there was, there’s a chance that it is not compatible with the device you are currently using.  Take for example the Nike FuelBand, which only works with iOS devices.  What if you’re an Android user who wants a Nike FuelBand?  You then have to look for another tracking band to use like the Fitbit FLex or Fitbit Force.

And what if you don’t want a tracking bracelet or you want something more inconspicuous?  It is not that easy to choose which device or app to use, especially when they all cost a pretty penny.

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Apps can’t talk to each other

If you’re not into purchasing a tracking gadget, there are a lot of apps to choose from.  Unfortunately, these apps often don’t work together, opening up another problem for users.  They have to keep track of multiple apps such as a food tracker, a calorie counter, step counter, and a lot more other apps that would benefit users if only there was a way to easily consolidate their disparate data pools, which could undoubtedly learn from each other.

As great as self-tracking apps are, they could be greater if they could communicate with one another.  The biggest perk of all would be the fact that you, the end user, is able to leverage a broader data set that incorporates a variety of data sources to make better correlations and recommendations.

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Security concerns

Fitness trackers log your whereabouts so you’ll know how the distance you covered in your morning run, if you’re progressing, or if you’re plateauing.  Unfortunately, this poses a great security risk for users since hackers can know your whereabouts at any given time.  And this is only one example of the highly personalized data that comes with pattern-recording gadgets and services.  Any time that personal data is being transmitted, there’s a chance it could be intercepted.  If not properly encrypted, your data could be at risk.

How sure are we that data collected by there lifelogging apps and devices are safely tucked away?  As more things now connect to the internet, it’s like an open invitation to hackers to take a peek of every aspect of our lives.  SiliconANGLE’s Mike Wheatley enumerated the threats we face as we connect almost every aspect of our lives to the internet and it’s not a pretty picture.  If insulin pumps and pacemakers can easily be hacked, what makes lifelogging gadgets and apps any safer?

Room for improvement

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There’s infinite potential in the quantified-self movement, but we also have a ways to go before its gadgets, services and networks are usable for mainstream audiences.  The three obstacles listed above highlight the room for this market to mature.

Checkout our full collection of Self-Quantified news stories over on Springpad.

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