Posted by Julie Clover
There have been several rumors in recent weeks about Apple working on a smart ring that can be worn on the fingers, and while it's unclear whether the project is in active development at this time, we decided to round up the rumors that have been circulating.
Samsung's upcoming Galaxy Ring
This guide combines everything we've heard, so it's far from smart -Apple ring.
Potential features
A February rumor from the Electronic Times said Apple was “accelerating development” of a smart ring with health-related features.
Like the Apple Watch, the Apple Ring can track heart rate, activity, sleep and breathing rate, using this information to provide users with sleep information and health recommendations.
Apple also potentially can use the smart ring as an input device for iPhone, iPad, Vision Pro or Mac.
Ring or watch
Apple already has the Apple Watch, capable of tracking various health indicators, but for certain actions it is more convenient to use a smart ring. A ring may be preferred, for example, for sleeping or in situations where the wrists need to be covered, such as when wearing wrist supports.
The call is unlikely to require a permanent connection to the iPhone or another Apple device since it doesn't have a display, so the battery will likely last for a longer period of time. On the other hand, a smart ring will transmit information via Bluetooth or a similar method, so while it will collect data, that data will not sync with the iPhone in real time, as is the case with the Apple Watch.
The smart ring may be more affordable than the Apple Watch, since the more expensive smart rings from Apple's competitors will cost around $300.
Apple competition
Samsung is developing the Galaxy Ring, which is expected to be available in the second half of the year. It can track heart rate, activity and sleep, as well as make wireless payments and control Samsung devices.
Companies like Oura and Ultrahuman have been making and selling smart rings for several years. The third generation Oura Ring is capable of collecting activity information and measuring heart rate, breathing rate and sleep quality.
Ultrahuman Ring Air measures heart rate, skin temperature, breathing rate, recovery time and sleep. .
Ring patents
Apple has patented smart ring technology. For example, one patent explains how a smart ring (or multiple smart rings) could be used as a method to control a VR headset. Sensors in the ring would collect information from the user, and a haptic signal could provide feedback.
Another patent describes using a touch-screen ring to control a TV or tablet, and a third describes a smart device. ring with NFC.
Release date
While Electronic Times said Apple was seriously considering a smart ring, Bloomberg's Mark Gurman said in February, that Apple is not actively developing it. it's currently a device that can be worn on the fingers.
Apple's industrial design team did pitch the idea of a smart ring focused on health and fitness to executives a few years ago, but it may not be the project it was intended to be. handled by Apple. I plan to bring it to the market right now.
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