Smart rings, a promising form factor in the wearable tech market, are about to get some real competition for the most recognizable and popular smart ring on the market, Oura Ring. The smart ring offers a more discreet and comfortable option for sleep tracking compared to smartwatches. Moreover, the underside of the finger is considered a better place for heart rate and blood oxygen readings than the wrist. However, the challenge lies in creating a stylish device that accommodates the small and flexible components required for a smart ring. Additionally, smart rings tend to be expensive, often with fewer features than smartwatches. Therefore, it was surprising to witness the emergence of several working prototypes and products at CES, marking a potential shift in the smart ring market.
One of the notable upcoming smart rings is Movano’s Evie Ring, which will be launched later this month. Priced at $269, the Evie Ring aims to be a women-first wearable but is suitable for anyone. It features a simplified app that contextualizes data, tracks health metrics such as blood oxygen, heart rate, activity, and menstrual cycles, and aims to incorporate AI-powered insights in the future. The Evie Ring’s design is visually appealing, and its clever flexibility accommodates finger swelling. What sets Movano apart is its commitment to obtaining FDA clearance for the device, not because it is necessary for the included features, but to ensure the accuracy of the sensors, showcasing their dedication to customer satisfaction.
Another upcoming smart ring is the Amazfit Helio Ring, targeted towards athletes seeking greater insight into recovery. Similar to the Oura Ring, the Helio Ring functions as a recovery tracker, measuring daily readiness scores and integrating with other Amazfit smartwatches. Users can wear the smartwatch during the day and rely on the Helio Ring for sleep tracking at night. The Helio Ring also features an EDA sensor to monitor stress levels and provides access to an AI chatbot. Amazfit, known for offering impressive budget wearables, has a history of delivering feature-packed devices at competitive prices. The Helio Ring is expected to continue this trend when it launches this spring.
The Zikr Ring is an intriguing addition to the smart ring landscape, as it caters specifically to the needs of Muslims. This smart ring serves as a reminder for prayer times and includes a digital tasbih counter. Another option, RingConn, offers features similar to the Oura Ring but at a more affordable price point. However, RingConn comes from a less established company, introducing an element of uncertainty regarding its performance and durability. The CES show floor also unveiled other smart rings, though some made dubious health tracking claims or targeted niche markets. While additional details on these options are limited, the overarching theme remains clear: the smart ring market is gaining momentum, and an Oura Ring challenger may soon emerge.
Although smart rings have been present in the market, the abundance of new devices at CES indicates a renewed interest and investment in this space. The failure of previous smart ring endeavors, such as the Motiv Ring, did not deter smaller companies like Ultrahuman and Circular from exploring smart ring technology. Even Samsung, a major player in the tech industry, is rumored to be working on its own smart ring, the Galaxy Ring. The proliferation of smart rings at CES highlights the need for progress and innovation in a market that has been relatively quiet for far too long. Competition in this space could be the catalyst that propels smart ring technology forward, benefitting consumers with improved features, designs, and affordability.
The emergence of multiple working prototypes and products at CES suggests that the smart ring market is undergoing a transformation. Noteworthy contenders like Movano’s Evie Ring and Amazfit’s Helio Ring offer compelling features and designs, challenging the dominance of the Oura Ring. The entry of new players and the potential for a Samsung Galaxy Ring signal a promising future for smart rings. Ultimately, this competition will drive innovation and result in better options for consumers who desire a discreet, comfortable, and stylish wearable for tracking their health and well-being.
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