Samsung expanded the breadth of its wearable offering when it recently launched the Samsung Galaxy Ring. It marks the brand’s first foray into the smart ring segment. It’s not just Samsung, we’ve seen Boat launch its smart ring at the affordable end of the price spectrum to expand a fledgling category that’s gradually beginning to generate buzz. It’s early days yet and the wide range of products across the price spectrum are still defining their value proposition.
Distraction-free form factor
The recent India debut of the minimalist Whoop tracker (a popular choice among high-profile sports persons across the world) has highlighted the benefits of what Whoop calls a ‘distraction-free’ design. No pings or distractions; this is a tracker that allows you to focus on your daily schedules while it does the job in the background. This is probably the biggest USP of a smart ring that teams up with a companion app on your smartphone and tracks key wellness metrics.
Buying guide
Smart rings are at a nascent stage and it’s likely to appeal to you if you’re an early adopter. You can also choose from a range of budget smart rings that promise to deliver on key wellness goals — a great option if you’re on the fence about this category. Don’t expect the same functionality of a smartwatch that comes with a large display and also has the advantage of nearly a decade of evolution. Look out for the materials and colour options across the category to find the perfect match, and while you’re at it, remember that one size doesn’t fit all. You will need to find the size that suits your finger (best to measure your finger before you do).
At this point, smart rings are primarily wellness trackers. If that’s not a priority or if you already have a smartwatch or tracker that’s getting the job done, then it’s best you wait it out. While some smart rings allow you to do a little extra, like control your smartphone camera, these add-ons tend to border on gimmicky. Do remember that your smart ring needs to keep returning to its charging case just like a smartphone or smartwatch. Battery life ought to be one of your key considerations. While most smart rings will pair with your Android smartphone or iPhone, it’s good to do your homework on compatibility and assess the functionality of the companion app before you pick the smart ring that works for you. Unlike a smartwatch, all your interactions with a smart ring will be via the compatible app.
Here are a few smart rings to check out:
Samsung Galaxy Smart Ring
Easily one of the best options out there but it doesn’t come cheap. We dig the premium, rugged design and the choice of colours, aside from the lightweight form (under 3 gm). It’s geared for your outdoor pursuits thanks to an IP-68 certification and a 10ATM rating — you can dive into a pool with it; certified up to a depth of 100 metres. The Galaxy ring leans on three sensors, including an optical bio-signal sensor, that team up with Samsung Health and Galaxy AI to monitor key wellness factors like sleep and your heart rate.
Price: Rs 38,999 onwards
Ultrahuman Ring AIR
It all starts with the sizing kit, that allows you to zero in on the perfect size. This premium smart ring hits the right wellness notes. This includes a Movement Index that helps you move across the day and helps you improve metabolism and cardiovascular health. The Ring AIR uses factors like skin temperature and Heart Rate Variability to compute a Recovery Score and also tracks multiple workouts. There’s also a cool ‘Stimulant Window Recommender’ that helps you make smart choices about your stimulant consumption.
Price: Rs 28,499
Amazfit Helio Ring
Amazfit makes a play for the premium smart ring segment with its first smart ring in India. It’s finished with a Titanium Alloy that finds the balance between durability and elegant design. It’s just 2.6mm thin and weighs under 4gm, adding to its unobtrusive appeal. You get inputs on key metrics like training readiness, recovery time — tells you whether you’re ready for an intense workout, sleep score, and Sleep HRV.
Price: Rs 24,999
Pebble Iris Smart Ring
This one features a stainless steel build that’s available in a choice of three sizes. Pebble is playing up what it calls ‘Smart Touch Controls’ that allow you to scroll videos, navigate slides, shuffle tracks on your playlist or control your camera. Its Comprehensive Health Suite tracks body temperature, heart rate, and blood oxygen aside from offering multiple sports modes.
Price: Rs 5,999
boAt Smart Ring
It is a good budget option if you’re looking for your first bite of the smart ring category. This one is finished with a premium ceramic and metal build that’s backed by a 5 ATM water resistance. It weighs just under 8gm and offers about five days of battery life. It comes with body temperature and sleep monitoring as well as smart activity tracking.
Price: Rs 2,999
