The Oura Ring 4, Slimmer Sensors, Increased Accuracy, and More Sizes

The Oura Ring 4 marks a significant improvement over its predecessor, the Gen 3. With updates in both hardware and software, it promises a better user experience. Oura has made changes to enhance the design, sensor accuracy, and app usability, making it more comfortable, efficient, and accessible for a wider range of users.

Design and Material Upgrades

At first glance, the Oura Ring 4 doesn't look drastically different from the Gen 3. However, there are subtle but meaningful improvements. The new version is made entirely from titanium, whereas the previous generation had an epoxy interior. All models are completely round like the current Horizon designs, with no flat edge. A significant change is the redesign of the sensors, which now lie flat, making the ring more comfortable for all-day wear.

Software and Algorithm Enhancements

The most significant updates for the Oura Ring 4 come from software advancements. One common challenge with smart rings is that everyone's fingers are different, and the ring can move around during the day. This misalignment can result in gaps in data. To address this, Oura has improved its algorithm by increasing the number of signal pathways from 8 to 18. This enables the ring to pick the best signal at any given time, significantly improving its accuracy.

Improved Accuracy and Battery Life

According to Oura, the new algorithm leads to a 120% improvement in signal quality and a 30% increase in accuracy for blood oxygen tracking. The algorithm also reduces gaps in daytime and nighttime heart rate readings by 7% and 31%, respectively. Beyond accuracy, the company claims that the new software will also boost battery life to up to eight days, depending on the size of the ring. Larger ring sizes tend to have better battery life due to increased internal space for the battery.

Expanded Size Range

Oura has expanded the size options available for the Oura Ring 4. Now, the ring comes in sizes ranging from 4 to 15, compared to the Gen 3’s limited sizes of 6 to 13. This change is partly because the company has noticed a demographic shift in its users, with more women, especially in their 20s, becoming a key segment. The wider range of sizes is a welcome improvement, making the ring more accessible to a broader audience.

Oura App Redesign

Users may have noticed that the Oura app had become somewhat cluttered with the addition of new features over the past few months. To address this, Oura has redesigned the app to make navigation simpler. The app now features three main sections:

• Today: A dynamic summary of key biometrics, based on time and user health goals.
• Vitals: A section for diving deeper into detailed metrics and scores.
• My Health: A focus on long-term trends and insights into the user’s overall health.

Additional Features in the Oura Ring 4

Aside from the redesign, Oura has rolled out a number of new features, including:

• Daytime Stress Tracking: A revamped metric that tracks and displays stress levels throughout the day.
• Automatic Activity Detection: The ability to automatically detect 40 different types of activities.
• Fertility Window Predictions: For users trying to conceive, the Oura Ring 4 now includes predictions for fertile windows. However, Oura clarifies that this feature is not meant to replace contraceptives. The company points to its partnership with Natural Cycles for those who need more comprehensive reproductive tracking.

Lastly, the Oura Labs program is being rolled out to Android users, offering access to experimental features.

Pricing and Availability

The Oura Ring 4 is priced at $349 and is eligible for HSA and FSA purchases. Shipping is set to begin on October 15th. Some users may be disappointed by the $50 price increase, but the Oura Ring Gen 3 will remain available while stocks last. The good news is that Oura's $6 monthly / $70 annual subscription fee will not see an increase.

FAQs

Q1: What are the key improvements in the Oura Ring 4?

• The Oura Ring 4 offers slimmer sensors, improved accuracy, and a wider range of sizes. It also introduces software updates for better data collection and battery life.

Q2: How accurate is the Oura Ring 4?

• Oura claims a 120% improvement in signal quality and a 30% increase in accuracy for blood oxygen tracking. Daytime and nighttime heart rate readings have also seen reductions in gaps.

Q3: What sizes are available for the Oura Ring 4?

• The Oura Ring 4 is available in sizes 4 to 15, which is an expanded range compared to previous versions.

Q4: What are the new features in the Oura app?

• The redesigned Oura app includes three main sections: Today, Vitals, and My Health, providing a better-organized experience for users.

Q5: When will the Oura Ring 4 be available, and how much does it cost?

• The Oura Ring 4 will be available starting October 15th, priced at $349. It is eligible for HSA and FSA accounts.

Conclusion

The Oura Ring 4 brings substantial improvements to an already popular health and fitness tracking device. With updates in design, accuracy, and size options, alongside a revamped app, Oura continues to refine its offerings for a growing user base. While the price increase may deter some, the improved features and functionality justify the cost for many health-conscious consumers.