A leading leaker has suggested that the much-anticipated Apple Ring could be the next wearable device from Apple. While the concept has been under consideration by Apple for years, it remains far from being a market-ready product. The cycle of rumors surrounding unreleased Apple hardware tends to pick up steam when products seem to align logically with Apple’s trajectory, even if they haven’t been a hot topic for a while.
In a recent edition of his “Power On” newsletter for Bloomberg, Mark Gurman asserted that the Apple Watch has seen little in the way of meaningful updates. He speculates that transitioning to a smart ring could be beneficial for Apple. Gurman highlights several advantages of a smart ring over a smartwatch: its comfort during sleep or exercise, extended battery life due to its small size and absence of a display, and a more discreet notification system.
From a fashion perspective, Gurman notes that a ring could complement any wardrobe, even formal attire, while preserving the fitness tracking capabilities of a smartwatch without requiring mechanical watch users to forgo their traditional accessories. This differentiation suggests that Apple could effectively market both the Apple Watch and Apple Ring, catering to varying consumer preferences. Nearly two decades ago, the idea first emerged with the iRing concept by Yanko Design, which featured touch-sensitive controls for Apple devices.
Though many patents for a smart ring exist, providing a glimpse into Apple’s vision, the product has yet to materialize. Speculation about its development surged again in early 2024 after Samsung announced its Galaxy Ring, reigniting discussions about Apple’s own potential entry into the smart ring market. Despite mixed reports on Apple’s commitment to the project, the enduring interest in the Apple Ring indicates that it remains a viable possibility, even if its timeline for release is uncertain.
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