In the ever-evolving world of information technology, it often seems that computers and software programs that were considered cutting edge when they appeared on the market are obsolete soon after. Because technologies develop so rapidly, it can be difficult to determine which new tools will change society and which ones will end up in the discount bins. One promising technology is wearable computers, devices that users strap around their waists, wrists, or heads so that they can access and send data while keeping their hands free. The movement away from desktop and laptop computers may become central to the future of the Information Revolution.

These computers have already proven useful in manufacturing industries and the military. For example, technicians, operators, and others who do not work at a desk can use wearable computers during tasks such as inspections...