Is Apple Ring Finally in the Making?
AI-summarised brief · reviewed before publication
In the latest edition of Mark Gurman's "Power On" newsletter for Bloomberg, the prominent leaker suggests that it may be time for Apple to shift its focus to a new wearable device: the Apple Ring. This idea is not new, as Apple has been exploring the concept of a smart ring for nearly 20 years. The rumor mill often cycles through hints and claims about unreleased Apple hardware, with some products seeming like a logical next step for the company. On Sunday, it was the Apple Ring's turn to take center stage, with Gurman proposing that the Apple Watch may have reached a point where it no longer offers significant updates. Gurman argues that a smart ring would provide several benefits compared to a smartwatch. For one, it could be more comfortable to wear, particularly during sleep or exercise. The small size and lack of a display would also result in longer battery life, reducing the need for daily recharging. Additionally, a ring would minimize the number of visible notifications a user would see, unlike an Apple Watch screen. The fashion aspect is also a consideration, as a ring could complement any outfit, even dressy attire. Furthermore, a smart ring would provide fitness tracking capabilities similar to a smartwatch, without requiring mechanical watch users to give up their wristwear. As fundamentally different devices, Apple could potentially sell both the Apple Watch and Apple Ring to consumers, with the ring appealing to those who don't want an Apple Watch. Gurman's post does not reveal any new information about an imminent release, but it continues a long tradition of discussion around a wearable that has yet to become a reality. One of the earliest examples of Apple's exploration of a smart ring dates back to 2007, when Yanko Design showcased a concept design for an "iRing." Since then, there have been numerous rumors and patent filings suggesting that Apple has been working on a smart ring, but it remains to be seen when or if it will come to fruition.
