Apple has no plans to release a smart ring – according to a new report.
Those waiting for an Apple smart ring might be disappointed, according to a new report by the ever-connected Mark Gurman.
In his paid newsletter, Gurman states that Apple has no plans to release a smart ring—even as the space heats up.
Gurman says that Apple believes a smart ring would “detract from the Apple Watch” and could “cannibalize” sales.
This aligns with comments from PULSE by Wareable by Dhaval Patel, an ex-Apple exec and smart ring startup founder. He told PULSE by Wareable:
“I have to be careful what I say because I was in leadership meetings, and to some degree, I know the roadmap. I would say it wouldn’t make sense for Apple to do in a ring what they do in a watch.
“It wouldn’t make sense because the watch—for all its disadvantages—has the advantage of being bigger than a smart ring. And so you can pack more features into it.
“So, at least for Apple, it wouldn’t make sense to do that in a ring form factor while they still have the watch. It would be like making a tiny phone while they have the iPhone.
“It would only make sense if they can do something completely different that has never been done before, or even exists, and it truly helps people. I mean, that’s what Apple takes pride in as its brand.”
Dhavel Patel
This new information comes at odds with the CCS Insight predictions report that states:
“Apple launches a smart ring by 2026. Following the success of the Oura Ring and Samsung’s debut of the Galaxy Ring, Apple launches a ring device. Given the company’s long-held interest in personal health and well-being, the ring is a natural extension of its product line.
“Apple’s brand allure and design strength prompt strong demand from consumers. Additionally, the product aligns well with the company’s growing commitment to gesture-based user interface models.”
