Over the past few years, the Oura Ring has reigned supreme as the most recognizable smart ring on the market. However, after exploring the CES show floor, it is apparent that the Oura Ring is about to face some stiff competition. Smart rings have always been a promising form factor, particularly for sleep tracking and health metrics monitoring. They offer a discreet and comfortable alternative to smartwatches, with the ability to collect valuable data from the underside of the finger. However, due to the small and flexible components, creating a stylish and feature-rich smart ring has been a challenge. Surprisingly, CES showcased several working prototypes and products that aim to address these limitations and reshape the smart ring landscape.
Movano’s Evie Ring: A Women-First Wearable
Among the standout smart rings featured at CES is Movano’s Evie Ring. Originally unveiled as a concept, it has since evolved into a bona fide product set to launch later this month. Priced at $269, the Evie Ring was specifically designed as a women-first wearable, although it can be worn by anyone. Its simplified app contextualizes data and tracks essential health metrics such as blood oxygen, heart rate, activity, and menstrual cycles. Movano’s ultimate goal is to integrate AI-powered insights into the device. The Evie Ring boasts an attractive design that flexes to accommodate swollen fingers, resembling the functionality of the Oura Ring. Additionally, Movano is seeking FDA clearance, not because it is necessary for the included features, but to assure customers of the sensor’s accuracy and the company’s commitment to their well-being.
Another noteworthy contender is the Amazfit Helio Ring, aimed at athletes seeking deeper insights into recovery. Mirroring the capabilities of the Oura Ring as a recovery tracker, it provides a daily readiness score and can be used in conjunction with other Amazfit smartwatches. Athletes can wear the smartwatch during the day and trust the Helio Ring to track their sleep at night. This offering also includes an EDA sensor for stress tracking along with access to an AI chatbot. Amazfit is well-known for its impressive budget wearables, consistently delivering feature-packed devices at competitive prices. While no pricing details have been released for the Helio Ring, based on Amazfit’s track record, it is reasonable to expect it will be attractively priced upon its spring release.
Moreover, the surge in smart ring innovation extends beyond mainstream fitness and health tracking. A notable example is the Zikr Ring, specifically designed for Muslims. This smart ring conveniently provides five daily reminders to pray and includes a digital tasbih counter. Additionally, there is RingConn, which offers features similar to the Oura Ring at a slightly more affordable price point. While the company may be less proven, it still poses a viable alternative for consumers.
A Growing Market Trend
Although smart rings have never truly disappeared from the market, their recent surge in popularity and development showcased at CES indicates that the momentum in this space is reaching new heights. It is only a matter of time before a smart ring emerges as a strong competitor to challenge the dominance of the Oura Ring. This is not to say that the goal is to surpass the Oura Ring, but rather to invigorate this stagnant market and drive it forward. The emergence of a variety of different smart rings signals the potential for an exciting and dynamic future for consumers seeking wearable technology that goes beyond the limitations of smartwatches and traditional fitness trackers.
As the smart ring market expands, companies will be compelled to deliver increasingly stylish and feature-rich options at competitive price points. Alongside established players like Oura, Movano, and Amazfit, smaller companies like Ultrahuman and Circular have also been diligently developing smart rings, bringing fresh perspectives and ideas to the table. Even Samsung is rumored to be entering the smart ring arena with a Galaxy Ring.
The critical mass of smart rings showcased at CES demonstrates a renewed interest and potential for this category. With advancements in technology and design, coupled with the integration of AI, smart rings have the power to transform how we monitor our health and wellness. Whether it’s sleep tracking, recovery metrics, specific religious applications, or customizable features, the era of smart rings has arrived, and competition will drive innovation and enhance user experiences. It is an exciting time for wearables, especially for those looking for a more discreet and stylish way to incorporate health tracking into their daily lives.
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