TECH

On and off: Apple's Ring project may still be alive

Samsung's Galaxy Ring

Rumour assessment   🤔 Possible

Long-awaited Apple's Ring device continues to generate buzz as industry insiders speculate about its potential to change healthcare technology despite the uncertainty surrounding its release.

Wearable technology is advancing rapidly, with smartwatches and fitness trackers leading the way. Both Samsung and Apple are now delving into more discrete ring-style wearables that offer a more subtle and convenient way to collect health data than traditional wrist-worn devices.

Samsung may soon release its Galaxy Ring 2, while how Apple is exploring not just rings, but wearables like bracelets and glasses.

Samsung’s Galaxy Ring 2 could hit the market sooner than expected, featuring a slimmer design, improved battery life, and possibly new health and connectivity features, according to a recent report. Naver blog “yeux1122” had the accurate leaks, but like any insider, there are some misses.

The Galaxy Ring series follows a trend of feature-rich wearables that offer health metrics and data tracking without a bulky wristband. The smaller, more battery-efficient design appeals to users looking for convenient wearable tech that lasts all day.

While Apple is reportedly developing a smart ring, Mark Gurman recently suggested the project may be dead. However, some analysts believe Apple is still pursuing the concept and predict it could launch as early as 2026.

Insider yeux1122 claims that Apple is still developing a ring-shaped wearable, and recent reports point to attempts to develop wearables in the form of a bracelet and smart glasses. Although the Apple Vision Pro has already been released, it may hint at rumors of a cheaper device.

Apple’s focus on seamless device integration may reflect an attempt to develop a holistic approach to health and lifestyle technology for users.

Apple’s Smart Ring Idea

Wearable technology is increasingly valued for its data-driven health monitoring and fitness analytics. Both Samsung and Apple are pursuing these priorities with their smartwatches.

However, moving to smaller, ring-shaped devices could be a strategic move to capture a new subset of users who prioritize thinness, comfort, and the ability to wear them all day. By being more discrete, rings offer a less intrusive way to collect health data, from heart rate to sleep monitoring.

Samsung’s Galaxy Ring offers a first-mover advantage, but Apple’s track record suggests that a later release could be successful. Apple’s extensive patents cover features like gesture control and biometric tracking.

While the rumors are speculative, Apple’s calculated approach could make its ring device a powerful, well-integrated addition to its lineup, firmly positioning it in this new category.

Industry analysts remain divided on the likelihood of an Apple Ring launch. Some, like CCS Insight’s Ben Wood, argue that the ring could fit well into Apple’s health-focused ecosystem, predicting a potential release as early as 2026.

However, like Gurman, others remain skeptical. Doubters point to Apple’s history of patents that have never been implemented in consumer products.

As a result, opinions on the Apple Ring vary widely, reflecting both optimism about the health-focused device and caution due to market and technical issues.

Rumor Score

🤔

Possible

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