From smart rings to smartwatches: Best health innovations at MWC 2024
The Mobile World Congress (MWC) consistently unveils the future of mobile technology. In 2024, a significant shift occurred, with wearables and health tech staging a strong showing. We witnessed an impressive range of devices, including smart rings, smartwatches, and AI-driven health advancements.
The gathering (formerly known as the Mobile World Congress) is a massive annual trade show focused on the mobile communications industry. Held in Barcelona, Spain, it’s widely considered the largest and most influential event for the global connectivity ecosystem. MWC attracts a diverse crowd, including device manufacturers, network equipment providers, wireless carriers, technology innovators, and members of the press.
Essential reading: Top fitness trackers and health gadgets
Attendance at MWC Barcelona is impressive, regularly exceeding 100,000 people from around the world. The event offers a unique platform for showcasing new products, networking, striking business deals, and delving into the latest trends.
Here are the health and fitness wearables that stole the show.
Best wearables and health tech at MWC 2024
Samsung Galaxy Ring
Samsung’s new health-tracking technology centers around the Galaxy Ring, a wearable device designed for unobtrusive and intuitive health monitoring. Features likely include blood oxygen level and heart rate tracking. AI-powered innovations like My Vitality Score and Booster Card generate personalized health insights and recommendations. Samsung further integrates health tracking into the home environment through SmartThings, allowing users to track workouts and monitor vitals while following fitness videos on a connected TV.
Unfortunately there was a bit of bad news. It turns out the Samsung Galaxy Fit3 will not be released in the United States. Possible reasons for this decision include a decline in fitness tracker popularity, increased smartwatch competition, and Samsung’s focus on markets outside the US. Samsung’s emphasis on Android devices is also a potential factor.
OnePlus Watch 2
The OnePlus Watch 2 is another wearable that generated a lot of press coverage. The device builds upon the foundation of its predecessor with a refined design, enhanced performance, and expanded functionality. The sleek aesthetic and powerful Snapdragon W5+ Gen 1 processor deliver a smooth and responsive user experience.
Health and fitness buffs will appreciate the vast array of over 100 sports modes and the precision of Dual Frequency GPS. Powered by the latest Wear OS by Google, the OnePlus Watch 2 seamlessly integrates with your smartphone and opens up a world of apps and customization. With a long-lasting battery and a competitive price point of $300, this is a compelling choice for Android users seeking a well-rounded smartwatch.
Amazfit Zepp OS 3.5
Zepp Health announced the rollout of Zepp OS 3.5 and the Zepp Flow assistant for select Amazfit smartwatches, enhancing features and user experiences. This update, supported on devices like the Amazfit Balance, Cheetah series, Falcon, and T-Rex Ultra, introduces offline maps, ski resort navigation, and improved health and fitness insights, marking a significant upgrade for Amazfit users.
Xiaomi Smart Band 8 Pro: Global launch
The Xiaomi Smart Band 8 Pro Global was finally launched, months after the China edition saw the light of day. The device boasts a larger display than the non-pro variant, extended battery life, and built-in GPS. It also includes standard health and fitness tracking features like heart rate monitoring, sleep tracking, and SpO2 monitoring. The band is water-resistant and offers a variety of customizable straps. The global version adds features such as voice assistant support and international language options.
Xiaomi Watch S3: Global launch
The Watch S3 is another wearable which saw a global launch. The device offers a premium smartwatch experience with its customizable bezels, lightweight design, and sharp 1.43-inch AMOLED display. It excels in health tracking, covering various activities, sleep, and stress levels. Additional conveniences like Bluetooth calling, NFC for contactless payments, and a long battery life make the Xiaomi Watch S3 a versatile companion.
Xiaomi Watch 2
Following a slew of leaks, the Xiaomi Watch 2 saw its official reveal. The timepiece features a 1.43-inch AMOLED display, water resistance up to 5 ATM, and the Snapdragon W5+ Gen 1 chipset. It runs on Wear OS and offers an array of health and fitness tracking features, including heart rate and SpO2 monitoring, and multi-satellite connectivity. The Watch 2 starts at €200 and comes in black and silver. A Pro version, launched last year, with a stainless steel body and rotating crown is available at a slight premium.
Honor Smart Ring
The final bit of news is from Honor. Smart rings are gaining popularity, and the company is among the companies developing one. Though details are still emerging, the ring is expected to track key health data such as heart rate, sleep patterns, and possibly even blood oxygen levels. With a focus on convenience, the Honor Smart Ring could provide users with subtle notifications and easily accessible data insights. Its success will depend on delivering accurate tracking, a comfortable design, and seamless integration with Honor’s existing ecosystem of smartphones and wearables.
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