Smart rings have historically taken a backseat to smartwatches, with startups having an opportunity to shine in this less saturated space. However, the landscape is evolving rapidly, as Samsung prepares to launch its first finger-worn wellness tracker and Oura, a veteran in the category, expands its retail presence.
In light of increasing competition, Ultrahuman, an Indian startup, is bolstering its position in the market with a new update. The latest upgrade includes AFib detection with its Ring Air, setting it apart as a compelling option for consumers. The AFib detection feature will be available as a premium option, requiring a $4.90 monthly subscription.
Powered by FibriCheck, a PPG-based technique approved by FDA and European medical device regulators, AFib detection is a key health monitoring feature that aligns Ultrahuman with other pioneers in the wearable tech industry.
As Ultrahuman expands the availability of its AFib detection feature in various markets, including regulatory-approved regions like Australia, EU, the UK, and the UAE, it aims to penetrate the US and Indian markets in the near future.
To enhance user experience and functionality, Ultrahuman is also introducing “PowerPlugs,” a platform that enables third-party developers to create apps and plug-ins based on its health and wellness data stack. This initiative opens new possibilities for users to customize their smart ring experience with additional features tailored to their needs.
By encouraging developers to build on top of Ultrahuman’s platform, the startup aims to cater to a diverse user base and foster innovation in the smart ring ecosystem.
Ultrahuman’s commitment to offering core features without a subscription fee remains unchanged, distinguishing it from competitors like Oura that charge a monthly subscription. With the upcoming launch of Samsung’s subscription-free smart ring, Ultrahuman is poised to maintain its position as a leading player in the market.
Privacy considerations are a top priority for Ultrahuman, assuring users that only de-identified and anonymized data is shared with third-party services to protect privacy. Premium services like metabolic tracking and AFib detection may incur additional costs due to regulatory requirements and manual interventions.
In essence, Ultrahuman’s Ring Air offers a subscription-free experience for all core features, with optional premium services available for users looking to enhance their health monitoring capabilities.
