Apple Wearables Decline Spurs Calls for Smart Ring Innovation

Technology journalist Mark Gurman and other commentators have expressed concerns about Apple's wearable devices segment facing declining revenue and stagnating innovation, especially as the Apple Watch approaches its 10th iteration with minimal upgrades. Gurman suggests that Apple should develop a smart ring as an alternative, noting that many consumers are uncomfortable wearing smartwatches and prefer simpler accessories like rings, which could also complement the Apple Watch and help reduce screen time. An Apple smart ring could provide new functionalities, including enhanced health and fitness tracking and improved input methods for Apple's XR devices such as the Vision Pro. Despite these potential benefits and the success of competitors like the Samsung Galaxy Ring, Apple reportedly has no current plans to develop such a device, instead focusing on other hardware like a tethered version of the Vision Pro headset. Industry voices argue that launching a smart ring could revitalize Apple's wearables market and attract new consumers who are bored with existing smartwatch options. Additionally, Apple’s recent software updates and hints at new hardware developments indicate ongoing efforts to innovate in the broader technology ecosystem.