Oura is giving its popular smart ring and app a significant update with the launch of the $349 Oura Ring 4. This new version boasts a slimmer design, improved accuracy, and a broader range of sizes.
Starting today, the Oura app will also undergo a complete redesign to better accommodate the many new features introduced in recent months.
At first glance, the Oura Ring 4 looks quite similar to the Gen 3. However, the new model will now be fully constructed from titanium, replacing the previous epoxy interior.
Additionally, all rings will feature a completely round shape, like the current Horizon models, without a flat edge.
One of the most notable changes is the sensors, which no longer have protruding dome-shaped covers. Instead, they are recessed for a flatter and more comfortable fit.
Along with these design changes, there’s a new charging dock, though no case is included.
The more significant changes, however, are in the software. Oura’s new algorithm addresses a common issue with smart rings: different finger shapes and sizes, which can cause the ring to shift out of optimal alignment, leading to gaps in data collection.
To counteract this, the new algorithm increases the number of signal pathways from eight to 18, allowing the ring to choose the best signal at any given moment.
Citing an external study, Oura claims that the new algorithm leads to a 120% improvement in signal quality and a 30% increase in accuracy for blood oxygen tracking.
It also reportedly reduces gaps in heart rate data by 7% during the day and 31% at night.
Additionally, the new algorithm improves battery life, extending it to up to eight days, depending on the ring’s size (larger rings tend to have better battery life).
However, these figures come from controlled studies, so real-world results may vary.
The redesigned app will now feature three main sections: Today, Vitals, and My Health. The Today tab offers a dynamic summary of your biometrics, tailored to the time of day and your health goals.
The Vitals section lets users focus on detailed metrics and scores, while My Health provides insights into long-term trends.
Oura is also expanding its size range, with the rings now available in sizes 4 to 15, an increase from the previous range of 6 to 13.
This change comes as the company notes a demographic shift, with women in their 20s becoming the fastest-growing customer segment. Expanding the size options reflects this shift and caters to a broader audience.
The app redesign aims to declutter the interface, which had become crowded with new features for stress tracking, reproductive health, heart health, and the experimental Labs beta program.
In addition to the new layout, Oura is introducing an updated Daytime Stress metric, automatic activity detection for 40 activity types, and fertility window predictions for those trying to conceive.
However, Oura emphasizes that the fertility feature is not intended for contraceptive use and points to its partnership with Natural Cycles for those interested in that option. Lastly, Oura is bringing its Labs program to Android users for the first time.
The Oura Ring 4 is priced at $349, with eligibility for HSA and FSA, and will start shipping on October 15th.
While the new model comes with a $50 price increase, the Oura Ring Gen 3 will still be available until stock runs out. Oura also confirmed that the $6 monthly or $70 annual subscription fee will remain unchanged.
