الوسم: Oura Ring

  • Oura Ring Can Tell If You’re Getting Sick

    Oura Ring Can Tell If You’re Getting Sick

    A highly anticipated feature that was previously tested in the beta phase of the Oura Ring is now officially available to all users. This feature, known as Symptom Radar, analyzes critical data collected during your sleep to serve as an early detection system for respiratory illnesses. In short, the Oura Ring can now help you identify when you might be coming down with something.

    One of the standout aspects of Symptom Radar is its user-friendly reporting system. Each morning, it presents findings using three clear classifications: no signs, minor signs of a respiratory illness, and significant signs of a respiratory illness. The information is visualized on a graph, allowing you to track your health trends over time and see how symptoms may change.

    The app utilizes key health metrics including heart rate, heart rate variability (HRV), respiration rates, and body temperature to inform the Symptom Radar. It compares these metrics against the baseline data it has accumulated since you started using the ring, highlighting any deviations. The accompanying graph not only shows which metrics have altered but also allows you to better grasp how your body is responding. This feature is particularly useful, as it invites you to contrast how you feel with the app’s interpretations.

    The Oura Ring 4 alongside the third-generation Oura Ring, seen from the side.
    The Oura Ring 3 (left) and Oura Ring 4 Andy Boxall / Digital Trends

    If the app detects minor or serious signs of respiratory issues, it suggests entering Rest Mode. This mode halts activity tracking, allowing your body time to recover while still monitoring your sleep patterns. By remaining in Rest Mode, the app continues to gather data on your condition, making it a superior option compared to simply not wearing the ring while unwell.

    The development of the Symptom Radar feature has been in the works for nearly five years. It evolved from tracking changes in body temperature and its relation to fever symptoms into a sophisticated algorithm incorporating a variety of metrics to alert users to potential illness indicators. According to Oura, the smart ring boasts a 99% accuracy rate for temperature tracking compared to lab measurements.

    Symptom Radar will be accessible via the Oura app starting December 9 for all users of the third-generation Oura Ring and the latest Oura Ring 4. This marks the first Oura Labs feature to transition from beta testing to standard availability for all users.

  • $80 Smart Ring Outshines The Oura Ring

    $80 Smart Ring Outshines The Oura Ring

    If you find the Samsung Galaxy Ring to be too understated and the Oura Ring too simplistic, the Rollme R5 Gemstones might be the perfect fit for you. This eye-catching smart ring certainly stands out more than the conventional options, ensuring that you’ll attract attention wherever you go.

    Rollme, a relatively unknown brand in the wearable tech arena, offers designs that push the envelope, particularly with their R5 Gemstones smart ring. This unique piece features a dual-ring design—one half adorned with “gemstones” and the other showcasing Roman numerals, possibly paying tribute to Tiffany’s classic Atlas collection.

    A promotional image of the Rollme R5 Gemstones smart ring.
    Rollme

    Rollme claims that the ring is crafted from stainless steel with an epoxy resin underside, but it doesn’t specify the material of the gemstones. Are they real diamonds? Or perhaps high-quality zirconia? At a retail price of $80, they likely aren’t, so temper your expectations. However, the ring does come with an impressive IP68 rating for dust and water resistance and is available in two stylish finishes: black with silver or black with gold.

    On the technical front, the Rollme R5 is equipped with sensors that monitor heart rate, blood oxygen levels, and movement. It is primarily designed for sleep tracking but also tracks steps, calories, and distance through its companion app. Rollme is a bit vague about the battery life, estimating it lasts between three to seven days on a single charge. Additionally, it uses a proprietary magnetic cable for recharging.

    The RingConn Gen 2 next to the third generation Oura Ring.
    RingConn Gen 2 (left) and third generation Oura Ring Andy Boxall / Digital Trends

    Smart rings have surged in popularity recently, largely thanks to the highly regarded Oura Ring, along with the buzz generated by the Samsung Galaxy Ring. Brands like RingConn have entered the market successfully with their cost-effective options, and rumors suggest that Apple could potentially release a smart ring in the near future. Design aesthetics share similarities across most models, typically starting at around $300. Thus, the bold design of the Rollme R5, priced under $100 (allegedly on sale), is quite surprising.

    While we haven’t had the chance to test the Rollme R5 Gemstones smart ring, if you’re looking for a top-tier smart ring, the Oura Ring 4 is a solid choice, though it lacks the glamorous gemstone embellishments offered by the Rollme option.