The smart ring market is heating up, and Ultrahuman is making a resounding statement to solidify its position. With the latest update to Ring Air, the company is introducing a game-changer: atrial fibrillation (AFib) detection.
AFib Detection: A Finger on Your Heart Health
Ultrahuman's Ring Air now offers AFib detection, a feature previously only seen in smartwatches like the Apple Watch. This FibriCheck-powered technology utilizes photoplethysmography (PPG) to measure heart rhythm by monitoring blood volume changes with each heartbeat.
Importantly, the AFib detection algorithm boasts a 91.86% sensitivity and 97.59% specificity, ensuring reliable results. This feature requires a separate subscription of $4.90 per month.
Regulation and Accuracy: Putting User Safety First
Ultrahuman prioritizes user safety. The AFib detection feature is currently available only in regions where it has received regulatory approval, including the EU, UK, and Australia. This ensures adherence to strict medical device standards.
"We are working on making it available in the U.S. and Indian markets in the next two-three months," Ultrahuman's CEO Mohit Kumar told TechCrunch.
Customization: Tailoring the Ring to Your Needs
Understanding that one-size-fits-all doesn't apply to health, Ultrahuman introduces "PowerPlugs" - a platform for third-party developers to build apps and functionalities on top of Ring Air's data stack. This empowers users to personalize their experience.
Open Platform: Fueling Innovation and Future Features
With PowerPlugs, Ultrahuman opens doors for developers. They can leverage the wealth of health data collected by the ring (and potentially future Ultrahuman products) to create innovative features.
Users can then choose to activate these features through free or paid plug-ins. This open approach fosters a thriving developer community and paves the way for exciting future functionalities.
Free vs. Paid: Finding the Right Balance
Ultrahuman maintains its commitment to offering core ring features without a subscription. This sets them apart from competitors like Oura, which charges a monthly fee. Samsung's upcoming Galaxy Ring is also expected to be subscription-free initially.
However, some of the PowerPlugs, including AFib detection and blood testing services, will incur a separate cost. Free plug-ins will also be available, encompassing features like sleep tracking and cycle tracking. This tiered structure ensures a cost-effective experience for users who don't require advanced functionalities.
Privacy Concerns: Keeping Your Data Safe
With third-party involvement in PowerPlugs, data privacy is crucial. Ultrahuman reassures users that only de-identified and anonymized data is shared with developers, eliminating any risk of personal information breaches.
What Ultrahuman Ring Air Envisions For the Years to Come
Ultrahuman's vision extends beyond the current features. They envision a future where the Ring Air continues to evolve with new functionalities driven by third-party developers. This open platform empowers users to personalize their experience and unlocks the potential for groundbreaking health and wellness applications.
The Ultrahuman Ring Air is created to become a powerful tool for proactive health management, offering users peace of mind and valuable insights into their well-being.
Meanwhile, the Samsung Galaxy Ring is arriving this month, along with "possible" new foldables.
Read Also: Apple Ring Will Come Sooner Than Later, New Supply Chain Report Says
