Apple’s Smart Ring Project Canceled? Apple has never officially mentioned or even teased a smart ring, yet recent rumors suggest that this once-whispered project might have been shelved. If that’s true, it’s a misstep on their part.
Anyone who has worn a smart ring for a few weeks can easily see its appeal. Devices like the Oura Ring and the upcoming Samsung Galaxy Ring are sleek, discreet, and perfect for sleep tracking, with battery life that puts most wearables to shame. I’ve been using the Oura Ring 3 for a few months now, and it’s one of the few tech gadgets I wear almost 24/7 (only taking it off when it needs a charge).
Apple’s Smart Ring Project Canceled? Smart Rings: Convenient, Discreet, but Not Without Limitations
Apple’s Smart Ring Project Canceled? Smart rings pack most of the core features that smartwatches offer: activity and exercise tracking, sleep monitoring, heart rate measurement, blood oxygen tracking, and overall wellness metrics. The lack of a screen, speakers, and buzzing notifications means they’re far less distracting than a smartwatch. I often forget I’m even wearing the Oura ring—though I do sometimes find myself fiddling with it, spinning it around my finger. I have to remind myself to reposition it correctly to make sure the internal sensors capture the most accurate readings.
The upcoming Oura Ring 4 promises to be even more comfortable for fidgeters like me, with sensors spread evenly across the inner band.
Still, it’s not a smartwatch While smart rings have their perks, they’re not without flaws. For instance, I can’t wear mine for exercises like pull-ups, as the pressure on the ring makes it uncomfortable. I have to take it off during certain workouts, which isn’t a problem with the Apple Watch.
Another downside is the lack of instant feedback. The low profile, without a screen or alerts, means I’m not always sure what the Oura Ring is tracking in real time. I often need to remind myself to check the companion app or the health app on my iPhone, where all the data syncs. But I don’t really mind that, as it keeps the distractions minimal.
Why would Apple pull the plug?
Apple’s Smart Ring Project Canceled?! So why would Apple pull the plug? A report from Bloomberg claims Apple may have killed its ring project because it fears the product could eat into the Apple Watch’s market share. That reasoning doesn’t add up. Based on what I’ve experienced, there’s a sizable audience that either doesn’t want a screen strapped to their wrist or would prefer a more subtle, minimal wearable like a smart ring.
Apple isn’t typically shy about offering choices within product categories. The iPhone lineup, for instance, has expanded over the years to offer various models, from the base version to the Pro and Plus options. Not into standard EarPods? Apple gives you AirPods, or for those who want even more, AirPods Pro. They’re constantly expanding their offerings to cater to different preferences.
Even in the wearable space, Apple has been anything but risk-averse.
This doesn’t make sense Apple has shown it’s willing to take bold leaps—just look at the Vision Pro headset. It’s an ambitious, premium product designed for a relatively niche market. Yet, they’ve gone ahead with it anyway, showing little concern about cannibalizing their other products.
Why Scrapping the Apple Ring Would Be a Missed Opportunity for Apple Fans?
If Apple has truly scrapped the rumored smart ring project, it’s a mistake. I’m confident there’s a strong demand for a smart ring in Apple’s ecosystem, especially one that could integrate with their other devices, like controlling the Vision Pro or AirPods using hand gestures (imagine tapping your thumb and ring finger to play or pause music).
Apple loyalists would undoubtedly shell out for a high-end smart ring, and I’m sure Apple could offer a premium titanium version and a more affordable aluminum one. There would likely be Pro and standard versions, with the Pro model boasting gesture controls, while the standard could be customized with engravings or different finishes.
Why an Apple Ring Seems Inevitable Despite Rumors of Cancellation
Honestly, I find it hard to believe Bloomberg’s report. Apple has no reason to shy away from this wearable niche. An Apple Ring seems inevitable—and I wouldn’t be surprised if we see it as soon as next year. If you’re into it, better be ready to put a ring on it.
