For those of you who are true Apple fanatics, this Smart ring needs to be on your radar. Smart rings are still totally unheard of, but that is about to change. Indeed, Apple has announced the development and patenting of an Apple Smart Ring.
We are expecting it to hit the market in the near future. In 2015, the tech giant had already put down a patent for something similar, which never reached the shelves. However, this time, the anticipation is greater, and with the recent advances in technology, it is ideal timing. Apple has already released some preliminary drawings of what the smart ring would look like.
Why create the Apple Smart Ring?
You may ask why Apple is looking to launch a smart ring. The Apple watches are already sleek and portable and definitely not too bulky. So why a ring? Quite simply, Apple thinks there is a market for it. Tech-savvy gadget users are ready for such an item, and Apple is there to deliver. There are also several advantages of a smart ring. First of all, the ability to go hands-free. Unlike with an iPad or iPhone, there will be no need to think of bringing along your device. Indeed, it is always on you. Slipped onto your finger, there are few things more practical. Another advantage is that it emits no blue light. Unlike screens, it is easy on the eyes. This means you can access the necessary functionalities without facing blue light, which could keep you from sleeping.
What do we know so far?
So, what do we know so far about the Apple smart ring? The basic description Apple has released is simple. The ring would be a wearable electronic computing device. More than a standalone object, it is a device that would be used as an interface. This lets us think that the smart ring would be used in conjunction with other Apple devices you may have. In a similar way to an Apple Watch, you would be able to connect it to your iPhone for instant notifications. It may also serve as a remote control for your watch, iPhone, or even computer. You would then be able to control these items without picking them up. Features that have been mentioned as part of the smart ring technology include gesture sensors, voice control, and voice response. As well as that, it would include a small touchscreen.
What can we expect?
So, what would this translate to in practice? A probability is that thanks to Apple’s smart ring, it would be possible to answer a phone call. By simply gesturing the ring towards our ear, the call would begin. It is not yet revealed if the ring could be connected to air pods or if the sound would come out of the ring directly. Both options would likely be possible. Not just this, but it is also possible that the smart ring would enable video calls. If it comprises of a camera, holding the ring to eye level could activate this.
If we think of the preliminary drawings of the smart rings, it seems there will also be a wireless transceiver. This suggests that the ring would connect to the internet. Thanks to voice control options, it is also likely that dictating text messages would be possible.
The touchscreen would naturally be too small to include a keyboard. If we think of Apple’s existing watch models, only the Series 7 and Series 8 now includes a keyboard.
This is relatively new, so we should not expect it on the smart ring’s small screen. However, including Siri into the smart ring would get around this. Not just for text sending, as we just mentioned, but also in terms of receiving. Incoming messages and notifications could be read out loud. This feature could naturally be turned off in silent mode. In that case, the smart ring’s screen lighting up could alert you of a notification. It would then be up to you to either play it on the ring or revert to your iPhone.
Another functionality the smart ring is expected to have is NFC. This would allow for contactless payments and seamless transactions. If you like this feature on Apple’s smartwatches, you will love it on the smart ring!
How will the Apple Smart Ring charge?
It is yet to be confirmed if the ring would come with a charger. An alternative would be for the ring to recharge itself by kinesis. This means that the ring would be charged through movement when being worn. This would allow for the ring to be somewhat less bulky. If this were the charging method, it would definitely be the first of its kind with Apple.
Conclusion
In short, while we do not yet know all features of Apple’s smart ring, there is lots to look forward to. This gadget could bring us a step closer to a seamless connection with technology. Furthermore, getting out a great product will give Apple a first-mover advantage. However, many smart rings with different features will likely flourish on the market after that. It is yet unclear as to what date the release is planned for. Several prototypes will probably see light before the final version is available to purchase. First buys may come through pre-orders, even before the smart ring is officially released. In all cases, we can definitely expect long queues outside Apple Stores!
While you’re here, take a look at our review of the Oura Smart Ring.
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Last Updated on January 8, 2023