Wearable technology has never been more ubiquitous, and the "smart jet" has rarely been more in tune with our bodies (from our heart rate to our sleep patterns and everything in between). Whether it's a helpful tool or a nuisance, the debate is open, and there will always be some cynic or devotee ready to defend their position.
However, few would be able to diminish the merits of a ring that promises to detect COVID-19. The object in question is the Oura ring, a gadget that has already been embraced by royalty (Prince Harry), athletes (cyclist Lance Armstrong), and celebrities (Will Smith). In an article in the Telegraph, which warns of the risk of turning a tech novice into a data addict, journalist Eilidh Hargreaves admits: "I'll only take it off to charge it every five days or so."
So what does an Oura ring do? It tracks temperature, sleep efficiency, and heart rate variability. All normal. But now, according to a study conducted by the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) and San Diego State University, it can also predict Covid-19. The Telegraph reports that the research (published on December 14, 2020) showed that the smart ring's continuous generation of temperature data can foreshadow illnesses like the coronavirus. The Oura ring (which sells for around €300) was able to accurately identify higher temperatures in people with symptoms of the virus.
The UCSF report states: "The device, which may be a better indicator of illness than a thermometer, could lead to earlier isolation and testing, slowing the spread of infectious diseases." The Telegraph notes that since the first lockdown, the NBA has purchased 2,000 rings to bolster safety during its season. Oura's workforce has doubled in size, with over 300,000 units sold worldwide.
Oura categorizes itself as "health technology," a segment of products that allow users to proactively monitor their health data to improve their lives and track early signs of illness. The ring is designed to "help keep its wearer safe and performing at their best," explains Lee Mullins (of Workshop Gym fame).
Best of all, it now looks the part. Prince Harry may have opted for the black Oura, but Tatler is more interested in the gold version (which looks remarkably like a simple wedding band).
The Finnish company has come a long way since 2018, when it received a €20 million investment backing from Will Smith and Shaquille O'Neal as the company was just starting out. Who knows if its value could increase even further in the coming years, as its value in terms of health could outweigh the aesthetic benefits of a solid gold ring.
