Although the smart ring market is still niche, the entry of big players like Samsung with the Galaxy Ring has started to set it in motion. In addition to established brands like Oura and (relative) newcomers like Samsung, many smaller companies are trying to capitalize on this growing momentum. One of them is Circular , which stands out with unusual – for a smart ring – features, such as non-invasive blood pressure and sugar level monitoring , directly from the finger
See also: Oura: Over-the-counter blood glucose monitoring
While we wait for the next generation, Circular’s existing model is getting new capabilities that predict illness before it even starts. The first-generation Circular Ring now takes into account key health parameters, such as heart rate variability (HRV), resting heart rate, irregular breathing patterns during sleep, and changes in temperature . All of this data is compiled into an Immunity Index, which – according to Circular – indicates thewearer’s “readiness to fight disease.”
Based on the continuous recording of these measurements, the Immunity Index assigns a score from 0 to 8 to quantify the user's immunity. It also alerts the user to the likelihood of getting sick, similar to the Apple Watch. A similar feature has worked effectively on the Oura Ring, which alerts its owner before symptoms even appear. In contrast, the Galaxy Watch and Pixel Watch currently lack capabilities for detecting early signs of illness.
See also: Raw's The Ring helps you find out if your partner is cheating on you
If you're wondering why Circular chose an 8-point rating system instead of a 10-point rating, it's because it uses five clear, evidence-based grades, rather than a more descriptive scale. Continuous describes the ratings as follows:
8/8: All good – All measurements are within normal limits
6/8: Slightly vulnerable – Some of the measurements may be outside the normal range
4/8: Vulnerable – Multiple indicators show signs of fatigue or lack of rest
2/8: Increased risk – Many measurements are outside the normal range
0/8: Severe risk – Indications that medical attention may be required
The company is also updating its app to allow for symptom tracking. These features will be available to all Circular Ring users, and they have promised they will also be included in the Ring 2, which was announced earlier this year and is already available for pre-order on Kickstarter.
See also: Oura Ring users now have access to Oura Advisor
Notably, Continuous has raised nearly $4 million — 400 times the campaign’s original goal. According to the campaign page, sizing kits have already begun shipping to backers, and ring deliveries are expected to begin soon.
Source: androidauthority
