Blood pressure tracking Ring X smart ring is live now on Indiegogo

A new smart ring has launched on Indiegogo, promising a suite of sophisticated health tracking features. Among these, the advertised ability to track blood pressure around the clock stands as the most intriguing—and potentially controversial—claim. However, it’s essential to examine the feasibility of such a feature and understand the broader context of crowdfunded health devices.

Ring X: impressive features… and a big claim

Named the Ring X, this device focuses on user comfort with its ceramic design. You are able to choose from three different materials, black ceramic, titanium steel and 18K gold.

According to the accompanying video (shown below), the Ring X isn’t stopping at blood pressure; it’s packing a lot into a small package. From tracking your sleep and oxygen levels to keeping tabs on your heart rate and stress levels, it aims to be your go-to for health insights. And for those looking to unwind, it offers several meditation modes to help you find your calm. Add to that its water resistance and a week-long battery life, and it’s clear Ring X is trying to tick all the boxes. At least on paper.

The central question, of course, revolves around the 24/7 blood pressure monitoring. Blood pressure measurements are most reliable in a restful state, not during your daily hustle. It’s a feature that’s piqued curiosity, but also skepticism, as we await real-world validation of its effectiveness. This raises our doubts about the value of measurements taken during activity.

Also, it’s worth noting that we are yet to see a ring with the ability to capture blood pressure measurements. Several already have advertised the feature but are still in development.

Crowdfunding: The promise and the risk

When presented with such claims, it’s important to remember that crowdfunded wearable health devices come with an inherent level of risk. Projects of this nature can face delays, unexpected hurdles, or even outright failure. Currently, several smart ring campaigns are experiencing delays, underscoring the need for caution when backing these ventures.

One such example is the VELIA smart ring. The device was meant to launch at the end of 2023, but is now aiming for a Q3 2024 debut. Interestingly, that one also advertises blood pressure ability. Albeit, not around the clock.

And hey, just a few weeks ago the campaign for Ringo was pulled from Kickstarer and money returned to backers. That project had raised more than $100,000 by the time it was suspended.

Essential reading: Top fitness trackers and health gadgets

On the other hand, success stories do exist. Products like RingConn and Ultrahuman Ring Air illustrate that crowdfunding can deliver high-quality and innovative products. Unlike the Oura smart ring, both are sold without a monthly subscription. And they dish out much of the same metrics as their more well known counterpart with decent accuracy.

Proceed with informed caution

The concept of a smart ring capable of tracking blood pressure undoubtedly holds appeal. And we sincerely hope Ring X does deliver on its claims.

Yet, approaching any crowdfunded health wearable, particularly those promising medical breakthroughs, with a degree of informed skepticism is essential. Your health and money are ultimately in your hands.

Ring X is selling for $159 on Indiegogo which is 47% down on the price it will ultimately sell for when it hits retail availability. If all goes well, backers should receive the device in June.

Price: $159 and up

Funding total:
$30,374 raised, funding goal $638

Estimated delivery: June 2024
27 days left in the campaign

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