Apple Ring May Not Be Dead After All
- Apple’s smart ring project isn’t as dead as we thought—there might still be hope.
- New leaks hint at Apple quietly working on more than just a ring; think bands and glasses.
- Samsung’s Galaxy Ring has a head start, but Apple’s next wearable could be worth the wait.
The tech world has been buzzing about Apple’s rumored "smart ring" for years, with rumors oscillating between development progress and cancellation. Yet, a new leak may rekindle hope, hinting that Apple could still be pursuing this elusive wearable technology.
Photo via SlashGear // A person wearing a smart ring in public.
A Discreet Revolution in Health Tech?
Wearable technology has come a long way, with devices like smartwatches and fitness trackers becoming mainstays in personal health monitoring. The next frontier? Ring-style wearables. Companies like Samsung and Apple are looking to provide health-tracking in smaller, more discreet forms that offer comfort and convenience over wrist-worn devices.
According to a report by South Korean blog Naver, user "yeux1122" — a leaker with a track record for early Apple insights — suggests Apple might still be developing a “ring-type wearable.”
"Apple is also still developing a ring-type wearable," claims yeux1122, despite previous reports suggesting otherwise. The post adds that Apple may also be exploring smart “band-type and smart glass-type” devices.
These developments align with a trend toward multifunctional, compact wearables. Samsung, for instance, is rumored to be preparing the release of its Galaxy Ring 2, with potential upgrades including a slimmer profile, extended battery life, and new health and connectivity features.
Apple’s Smart Ring: A Dead Project or Just Dormant?
Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, a trusted Apple insider, recently put a damper on the ring rumors, stating in October that "Apple isn’t actively developing a ring and has no plans to launch one." While Gurman’s insights are usually accurate, some experts and enthusiasts aren’t so quick to dismiss the possibility.
Timeline for a Possible Release? Industry analysts, such as Ben Wood from CCS Insight, note that a ring-shaped device would complement Apple’s ecosystem of health-focused products. Some even suggest a possible launch as early as 2026. However, skepticism remains, largely due to Apple’s extensive history of patented but unrealized concepts.
Apple holds numerous patents around wearables, including gestures and biometric tracking—technology that would suit a ring format. The tech giant’s emphasis on seamless integration could mean an Apple Ring would tie deeply into its broader suite of health products, from Apple Watch to the Health app.
Photo via TechCrunch // Samsung's smart ring, the Samsung Galaxy Ring.
Samsung’s First-Mover Advantage
Samsung's Galaxy Ring already has the first-mover advantage, though history has shown that Apple’s strategic patience often pays off. The Galaxy Ring 2 is expected to hit the market soon with enhanced features, appealing to users who prioritize subtle, comfortable devices for continuous health tracking. Smaller, battery-efficient designs are crucial for all-day wear, and Samsung’s ring design provides a less obtrusive, high-functioning option for users.
Apple, however, might choose to wait until it can deliver a product that seamlessly integrates with its ecosystem, offering users a well-rounded experience.
Health Tracking in the Palm of Your Hand (or on Your Finger)
Wearable rings appeal to users looking for a less intrusive way to gather health data, from sleep monitoring to heart rate tracking. An Apple ring could fill a unique niche: a discrete, powerful device capturing essential health data without the bulk of a wristband.
Apple’s Vision: Beyond Just Rings
Apple’s ambitions appear to go beyond rings alone. The Naver report by yeux1122 hints at potential development of band-type and smart glass-type wearables. This could signal Apple’s wider interest in pioneering health tech, building a versatile lineup of devices designed to meet users’ unique preferences and lifestyles.
While the fate of the Apple Ring remains uncertain, one thing is clear: Apple continues to view health monitoring as a critical component of its product lineup, whether through wristbands, rings, or glasses.
Apple may yet surprise us by transforming its rumored ring project into a game-changer in personal health monitoring. For now, fans and analysts are left waiting, hoping to catch a glimpse of this elusive technology in future announcements.
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