Ring X: Smart ring promises blood pressure measurement and many other functions and currently comes with a large discount

The market for smart rings is currently in full swing. The Ring X, a new smart ring, is currently being funded on Kickstarter and has already reached its funding goal. Hardly surprising, as the goal of $995 is more a symbolic amount. Supporters can currently secure the ceramic model of the Ring X for a price of $159, while the titanium model costs at least $209. A gold-plated version is also available. Delivery is scheduled for June. As always, crowdfunding campaigns involve considerable risk for supporters.

The smart ring is advertised with continuous and optical blood pressure measurement. A YouTube video supposedly shows a comparison between the readings of a conventional medical blood pressure monitor and the Ring X. In terms of measurement accuracy, we are rather skeptical, as the Ring X has no certification as a medical device, but the optical blood pressure measurement is not completely unrealistic. However, the Samsung Galaxy Watch models, for example, still require a support calibration for this to be effective.

The battery life of the Ring X is specified as up to 5 days and it is said to be waterproof up to a test pressure of 5 ATM, making it suitable for swimming. The heart rate can also be measured continuously, as can oxygen saturation and skin temperature. Further features include measurement of heart rate variability, sleep monitoring and the recording of sporting activities. Lastly, a pedometer is also on board.