Apple would prepare a connected ring

2024-02-21 14:08:56

While it already dominates the market for connected watches, numerous rumors (and patents) suggest that Apple could also launch into the market for connected rings or rings for monitoring health and well-being. And today, things are becoming clearer. In a recent article, our colleagues at MacRumors relay the Korean media Electronic Times which discusses the plans of the Cupertino firm.

According to this new rumor, Apple is seriously considering launching this new category this time. And one of the sources relayed by Electronic Times even indicated that marketing could be imminent. As for features, it is possible that in addition to health monitoring, Apple equips the ring with an NFC module for payments, according to one of its patents.

Future concurrent d’Oura et de Samsung?

As usual, this information should be considered with caution, since it is not official. But in any case, a ring would allow Apple to offer health monitoring on a more discreet product than watches. If Apple launches this ring, it would then be in direct competition with Oura, one of the specialists in connected rings, which has been marketing this type of product for years. Apple will also compete with Samsung, which is preparing the launch of a similar product.

As a reminder, it was during the presentation of the Galaxy S24 that the Korean giant teased its future ring Galaxy Ring. Samsung has not yet indicated a launch date. But recent rumors, also from Electronic Times, suggest that this new product could be launched at Samsung’s next Unpacked conference. This event could be organized in July, to announce the Korean giant’s next folding smartphones.

Currently, Samsung is testing its prototypes, with a view to starting mass production between April and June. As for features, recent rumors point to an ECG, blood pressure monitoring, as well as an NFC module for contactless payments. For the price, it is likely that Samsung will try to align with the prices of existing products, such as the Oura ring. As a result, the Android Authority site indicates that the Galaxy Ring could have a price around $300 in the United States.

More and more rumors about a future Apple connected ring are circulating on the web
This product would allow the firm to offer health monitoring in a more discreet form factor than watches
If Apple launches a ring, it would compete with Oura, but also Samsung
In January, Samsung announced that it plans to launch the Galaxy Ring