Apple reportedly developing smart ring, leak suggests active manufacturing

Recent insider information suggests that Apple is currently developing a smart ring, referred to as "iRing," marking a shift from previous speculation to tangible manufacturing efforts. This revelation comes from leaker Kosutami, who has a history of accurate Apple hardware predictions, though no details about specifications, pricing, or release timing have been provided.

This development contrasts with statements made by Bloomberg's Mark Gurman in October 2024, who reported that Apple had no plans for a smart ring due to concerns it might reduce Apple Watch sales. Presently, there are conflicting reports, with one trusted source affirming the project and another denying it.

The concept of a ring aligns with Apple's expanding portfolio of health-related devices. While the AirPods Pro 3 include a PPG heart-rate sensor and the Apple Watch monitors blood oxygen, ECG, and temperature, a ring worn overnight could enhance sleep-tracking capabilities without requiring users to wear a watch to bed.

The market timing appears favorable. The Oura Ring 5, launched in May 2026 as the smallest smart ring globally, currently dominates the category. Samsung introduced the Galaxy Ring at $399 in July 2024 without a subscription fee, but its successor, the Galaxy Ring 2, has been delayed until early 2027 due to disappointing sales and a patent dispute with Oura at the US International Trade Commission. This situation leaves the premium smart ring segment lacking a strong competitor as 2026 progresses.

Apple’s Potential Edge in Wearable Technology

Apple's primary strength lies in its ecosystem rather than hardware sensors alone. An iRing integrated with Apple's Health, Fitness, and possibly Vision Pro gesture controls would offer features difficult to replicate by competitors. Apple’s patents indicate the device could support both health monitoring and gesture input, serving multiple functions depending on the product line it complements.

In 2024, Apple generated $37 billion in revenue from wearables, almost entirely from the Apple Watch and AirPods. Introducing a ring priced between $350 and $400, comparable to the Oura Ring 5 and Galaxy Ring, would represent a low-risk expansion of its existing product range rather than a direct threat to current offerings.

What Does This Mean for the Smart Ring Market?

At this stage, the information should be considered an early leak, with no confirmed launch date or official acknowledgment from Apple. However, Kosutami’s emphasis on active development rather than mere internal discussion suggests progress beyond conceptual phases. The smart ring market is forecasted to grow from approximately $519 million in 2026 to $3.77 billion by 2034, a market size that Apple typically targets for entry.