Apple's Smart Ring Project Remains in Limbo Ahead of Upcoming Event
Key Points
- Apple filed smart ring patents as early as 2020.
- A 2024 internal survey asked Apple Watch users about another wearable.
- Leakers claim development on a smart ring continued.
- Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman reports Apple may pause the project to protect the Apple Watch.
- A smart ring debut at the upcoming Apple event is considered unlikely.
- Competitors such as Samsung Galaxy Ring and Oura Ring 4 already exist in the market.
Apple has explored a smart ring since filing patents in 2020, but recent reports suggest the initiative may be paused to protect the Apple Watch. While a leaker claimed development was still underway, Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman reported Apple might cancel the project to avoid cannibalizing its flagship wearable. Analysts say a debut at the upcoming Apple event is unlikely, leaving the future of the smart ring uncertain amid competition from Samsung and Oura.
Background and Patent Activity
Apple’s interest in a wearable ring dates back to at least 2020, when the company filed patents describing a smart ring form factor. These filings indicated that Apple had moved beyond early concepts and was considering a device that could complement its existing Apple Watch lineup.
Recent Internal and External Signals
In September 2024, Apple conducted an internal survey of Apple Watch owners, asking whether they would consider another wearable device. The questionnaire hinted at continued curiosity within the company about expanding its wearable ecosystem.
Subsequent leaker reports revived speculation, claiming that development on a smart ring was still progressing and that Apple was also exploring other wearable formats such as bands and smart glasses.
Potential Roadblock: Bloomberg Report
Bloomberg journalist Mark Gurman reported that Apple might halt the smart ring project. According to Gurman, the company is wary of introducing a product that could divert attention from the Apple Watch, which still has growth potential and is a leader in fitness tracking. The report suggested that Apple sees little reason to cannibalize a successful product line.
Event Prospects and Market Context
Given the mixed signals, experts consider it unlikely that Apple will unveil a smart ring at the upcoming Apple event, which is expected to focus on the next iPhone series and new Apple Watch models. The event would be an unlikely venue for a surprise debut of a brand‑new wearable category.
Even if Apple were to proceed, the smart ring would enter a competitive market. Samsung’s Galaxy Ring and the Oura Ring 4 have already established footholds, offering features that Apple would need to match or exceed.
Outlook
While Apple’s smart ring remains a tantalizing prospect, the combination of internal caution and external competition suggests the project may stay on the back burner for now. Observers will watch for any future announcements that could signal a revival or a definitive cancellation of the initiative.