Apple Granted Patent for Smart Ring as Input Device
After much speculation and discussion, it has been confirmed that Apple has been granted a patent application for a smart ring device. While previous reports focused on the potential health sensor applications of the ring, this patent emphasizes its use as an input device.
Contrary to popular speculation, the new patent describes the smart ring as functioning primarily as an input device rather than a dedicated health monitoring tool. It is positioned as a more affordable and practical alternative to the Apple Watch in certain situations.
According to the patent document, the smart ring could not only monitor health parameters but also serve as an input device for the Apple Vision Pro. This could potentially replace the need for gloves as an input device for electronic devices and head-mounted display systems.
While the Vision Pro already allows for gesture-based controls, the addition of a smart ring could provide new functionalities and enhance user experience. Despite the patent being granted, there are no active development efforts at the moment, leading some to believe that the concept of a smart ring is more theoretical than practical.
Apple has filed several patent applications related to smart rings, but only a small percentage of these ideas make it to the market. As a result, while the idea of a smart ring has been circulating for years, its actual release remains uncertain. Stay tuned for more updates on this innovative device from Apple.