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There are very few options for smart rings in the United States, and the selection on sale may soon become even more limited. Ultrahuman has been banned from importing its Ring Air to the US.
The ruling comes from the US International Trade Commission (ITC) after the end of a patent dispute brought by Oura against Ultrahuman. The result was announced by Oura on Oct. 21 where brand said the decision was a “major legal milestone.”
Oura says, “This decision validates the strength of ŌURA’s patents and our commitment to enabling ethical collaboration across the smart ring ecosystem.” The final ruling brings a cease-and-desist order against Ultrahuman’s current smart rings, meaning the brand is unable to import further stock.
Ultrahuman says it will continue to sell its products for the foreseeable future with retailers working through existing inventory. However, it’s unclear how much stock is leftover and how long the brand will be able to continue to sell.
The Ultrahuman Ring Air scored a three and a half out of five in PCMag’s review with criticisms of its limited exercise tracking and slow app sync. PCMag’s reviewer loved the ring’s stylish design, detailed sleep tracking, and impressive companion app.
Ultrahuman also wants to assure customers that it will continue to support existing products. It said, “All existing Ultrahuman Ring AIR users will continue to receive full firmware, software, and warranty support without interruption.”
The next step for Ultrahuman is to try and move US production to a Texas-based facility, which it opened earlier this year. It refers to a revamped Ring Air as a “Made in USA” version, and Ultrahuman is exploring whether this workaround will allow it to continue sales. It also says it’s actively in development on a new ring design that it will launch in the US “as soon as possible.”
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The ruling from the ITC also involved Oura’s rival RingConn, although it isn’t subject to the same cease-and-desist order.
Oura says, “Under the terms, ŌURA has granted RingConn a multi-year license to continue offering RingConn smart rings and their companion app, with RingConn making royalty payments to ŌURA. The terms of the agreement are confidential between the parties.”
The RingConn Gen 2 Air takes the title of PCMag’s recommendation for the most affordable smart ring. It costs $199 with no subscription needed, plus it offers a 10-day battery life and detailed sleep tracking tech. RingConn’s exercise tracking is less detailed than Oura products and other alternatives such as the Samsung Galaxy Ring.
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