Oh, how times have evolved. Traditionally, people would propose to their future life partners with rings made of precious metals and adorned with gemstones. Today, when you express your love in a similar manner, you might do so with a… Samsing Galaxy Ring. Here’s why this could be a more profound expression of love than the conventional diamond or platinum band: with the Galaxy Ring, you can contribute to your loved one’s healthier lifestyle—and isn’t caring for your partner’s well-being one of the deepest expressions of your affection?
The Galaxy Ring arrives in a suitably elegant case. It’s a small, clear acrylic box that resembles a miniature jewel case, featuring a discreet USB-C port at the back for connectivity and charging. Opening the transparent top reveals a smooth white plastic base with a ring of light to indicate charge levels and connectivity. The ring device sits snugly in a raised, button-like holder.
Available in various colors, our test model had a smooth golden exterior and a sleek black interior, equipped with three sensors that rest on the underside of your finger when worn. So, what’s it like to wear the Galaxy Ring? Is it practical? Does it look appealing? And, being a gold ring, does it summon a wizard to send you on a quest to Mordor?
While a wizard does appear, it’s not Gandalf the White. Instead, it’s the user-friendly Samsung Health app, which you download on your phone and pair with the Galaxy Ring. The Samsung Galaxy Ring is a highly anticipated device set to launch soon in the Middle East, marking a significant milestone for Samsung as the first major tech company to enter the smart ring market in this region. Globally, this market has been dominated by smaller tech brands like Oura, Ringconn, and Ultrahuman, making Samsung’s entry a notable event.
As wearable technology advances, I was eager to see how this stylish, discreet alternative to traditional wrist gadgets would evolve. When I received a Galaxy Ring from Samsung to test before its UAE launch, I promptly charged its elegant case, slipped it onto my finger, and paired it with my everyday Motorola phone. I was particularly keen to discover if using the Ring with a non-Samsung phone would pose any issues.
However, the Samsung Health app effortlessly synced with the Galaxy Ring, proving that it works seamlessly without requiring a Samsung Galaxy smartphone. The Ring tracks a variety of health and activity parameters throughout the day and syncs with Samsung Health each morning to provide an Energy Score based on metrics such as sleep quality, daily activity, and heart rate data.
In my experience, the tracking was remarkably accurate, almost embarrassingly so. It vividly highlighted my sedentary lifestyle, presenting it in a manner akin to seeing my unfit self in the mirror. After wearing the Ring for a day and following my usual routine, I was impressed by the accuracy of the sleep data. The Ring noted my sleep onset at 2:11 am and wake-up at 8:01 am, followed by a snooze at 8:06 am. Despite a solid “Sleep Score” of 90, indicating undisturbed sleep, my “Energy Score” was only 52, likely due to mild heart rate fluctuations during sleep, possibly from sleep apnea.
The Ring also suggested that I needed to be more active, as I had only recorded 23 minutes of sustained movement and physical activity. The app noted that I hadn’t met the recommended 33 minutes of moderate-to-vigorous exercise. The next day, I attempted to rectify this by taking a 40-minute “brisk” walk, only to find that my pace wasn’t brisk enough to count as exercise. However, in the weeks I tested the Galaxy Ring, I managed to improve my briskness and elevate my Energy Score to 65.
Aside from accurate health tracking, the Galaxy Ring’s sleek design stands out. The Gold version I tested was both elegant and understated, though the Titanium Black version might be more suitable for most users. Compared to wearing a bulky smartwatch, the Ring feels liberating, especially for someone who appreciates traditional watches and high horology.
Comfort-wise, the Galaxy Ring excels. It’s slightly narrower than an Oura Ring and stays securely in place without feeling loose. Available in various sizes, it maintained contact with my skin without issues during overnight wear. The battery backup was also impressive, lasting about a week on a full charge.
Samsung states that the Galaxy Ring “will be launched soon in the region.” Although official prices have not been disclosed, expect it to cost around $400, or approximately Dh1,500. At this price, most people would have to choose between the Galaxy Ring and a smartwatch. I would opt for the Galaxy Ring, as it seems to be the one ring to rule them all.
Samsung Galaxy Ring Hits: Accurate tracking, great finish and looks, discreet and works with any Android phone. Misses: Perhaps the (expected) price. Price: Dh1,500 (TBC). Rating: 5 stars.
