3D printing continues to be
a global spectacle in 2014, making appearances from Las Vegas during
International CES and Barcelona during Mobile World Congress. With the 3D printing industry predicted to
reach $10.8 billion by 2021, many are asking how it will change the future of
the consumer landscape, much like MP3 players and iPods transformed the music
industry. While the answers may not be
obvious, there are a number of ways 3D printing will impact the daily lives of
consumers in years to come.
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| 3D printers are able to reproduce shapes of increasing complexity. (Photo from THECOURIER.CO.UK) |
Opening the door to
customization
A
major appeal to everyday consumers is how 3D printing opens the entryway to
customization. From custom jewelry to
food, the possibilities when using a 3D printer are endless. As 3D printers become more accessible over
time, so will the ability to print items that are extremely personalized and
tailored to each user. If we think about
most of the products we buy, they are commoditized in some way for the average
person; jeans are a certain length and cabinet handles come in standardized
sizes. 3D printing allows consumers to
create items exactly the way they need or want them – ultimately, letting
customers set their own parameters.
Companies like Nokia and New Balance, for example, have taken to the 3D
printing trend and now offer online services where consumers can customize
their own 3D printed cell phone case or sneakers, respectively.
Creating at home
convenience
Beyond
the ability to custom 3D print apparel and gadgets, there is massive potential in
at-home 3D printing. The average
consumer can easily use a 3D printer to produce everyday items like plates,
utensils, and home furnishings. At its
core, 3D printing at home is about being able to conveniently download and
print a model of nearly any item a consumer may want to make their living space
more comfortable and appealing.
Tech
Reviews by The Corliss Group
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