Apple’s work on a smart ring has been generating a lot of buzz lately, with rumors circulating about the potential features and competition for this innovative device. While it’s still uncertain if Apple is actively developing a smart ring, there are speculations that it could track health-related metrics, serve as an input device for Apple products, and provide an alternative to the Apple Watch for certain activities. Samsung is also working on its own Galaxy Ring, while companies like Oura and Ultrahuman have already been producing and selling smart rings. Additionally, Apple has patented smart ring technology, indicating their interest in this field. However, despite all the rumors, it remains unclear when or if Apple will release a smart ring to the market.
Potential Features
Apple is rumored to be developing a smart ring with various health-related features. According to a February rumor from Electronic Times, Apple is said to be “speeding up development” on this innovative device. Similar to the Apple Watch, the smart ring would be capable of tracking vital signs such as heart rate, activity levels, sleep patterns, and respiratory rate. This data would then be utilized to provide users with valuable sleep insights and health recommendations. Additionally, Apple is exploring the possibility of utilizing the smart ring as an input device for their iPhone, iPad, Vision Pro, and Mac.
Ring vs. Watch
While Apple already offers the Apple Watch with its extensive health tracking capabilities, a smart ring would present several advantages. One significant advantage is the comfortability it offers during specific activities. For instance, wearing a ring would be more preferable during sleep or situations where wrist coverage is necessary, such as when wearing supportive wrist wraps. Furthermore, unlike the Apple Watch, a smart ring may not require a constant connection to an iPhone or another Apple device, resulting in an extended battery life. However, it is worth noting that data syncing with an iPhone or Apple device may have limitations with a smart ring, as it would rely on Bluetooth or a similar method for data transmission. In terms of affordability, there is a possibility that a smart ring could be more cost-effective compared to the Apple Watch, especially considering that rival competitors price higher-end smart rings at approximately $300.
Apple’s Competition
Samsung, one of Apple’s main competitors, is also developing a smart ring called the Galaxy Ring, which is expected to be released in the second half of the year. The Galaxy Ring boasts similar features to Apple’s potential smart ring, including the ability to track heart rate, activity levels, and sleep. Additionally, it offers the convenience of wireless payments and device control for Samsung products. Apart from Samsung, other companies like Oura and Ultrahuman have been manufacturing and selling smart rings for several years. Oura’s third-generation ring collects activity information, measures heart rate, respiratory rate, and sleep quality. On the other hand, Ultrahuman’s Ring Air measures heart rate, skin temperature, respiratory rate, recovery times, and sleep. These smart rings from competitors showcase the capabilities and potential benefits that can be expected from Apple’s own smart ring.
Ring Patents
Apple has obtained several patents related to smart ring technology, demonstrating their interest and potential plans for the device. One patent details the utilization of a smart ring (or multiple smart rings) as a control method for virtual reality (VR) headsets. The ring would contain sensors to gather input from the user, while haptic feedback would provide an immersive experience. Another patent describes a touch-sensitive display incorporated within a ring, enabling it to control a television or tablet. Furthermore, Apple has also secured a patent for a smart ring equipped with Near Field Communication (NFC) capabilities. This technology would enable the ring to act as a Vision Pro controller, allowing users to navigate with in-air gestures.
Release Date
While rumors suggest that Apple is seriously considering the development of a smart ring, it appears that there is currently no active development of such a device. According to Mark Gurman from Bloomberg, Apple is not actively working on a finger-worn device at this time. However, Apple’s industrial design team did present the concept of a smart ring focused on health and fitness to executives a few years ago. Although the release date of an Apple smart ring remains uncertain, it is evident that the company is exploring innovative wearable technology options to expand their product lineup in the future.
In conclusion, the potential features of an Apple smart ring are intriguing, particularly the health-related capabilities it could offer. The ring’s comfortability and suitability for certain activities make it an appealing alternative to the Apple Watch. While there is competition in the market, with Samsung and other companies already manufacturing smart rings, Apple’s patents highlight their unique ideas for this wearable device. Although it is unclear when or if Apple will bring a smart ring to market, the possibility of experiencing advanced health tracking and seamless integration with Apple devices makes it an exciting prospect for tech enthusiasts and health-conscious individuals alike.
