Smart rings available today typically require users to choose a specific size before purchase, often using sizing kits.
More comfort on the fingers
According to a patent filed with the China National Intellectual Property Administration (CNIPA), Xiaomi’s future ring would feature an elastic outer ring and inner ring, combined with a spring mechanism to change the size of the ring. This system would allow the ring to adapt to the size of the finger dynamically, without manual intervention, in other words a more comfortable and secure fit.
The patent addresses situations where the size of the finger varies depending on temperature, weight fluctuations, or even certain pathologies. In addition to this functionality, the patent mentions the integration of technologies like 5G, Wi-Fi, NFC and ultra-wideband, as well as various sensors and a touch panel. There is also talk of audio components.
If this project sees the light of day, the ring could also ensure health monitoring and control of connected devices – very traditional uses for this type of product.
Xiaomi’s idea goes further than simple comfort. By standardizing the size of the ring using its adjustable mechanism, the company could simplify production and reduce costs. This could have an effect on the final price of the products.
The flexibility of this design would allow the same ring to be worn on different fingers or loaned to other people. Currently, Oura or Samsung models do not offer such flexible options, and for good reason. The Oura Ring 4 and Galaxy Ring require the purchase of kits to obtain the correct size (they are reimbursed when the ring is ordered), which is a barrier for some users.
That being said, the patent filing does not guarantee that this ring will see the light of day. Companies frequently file patents for ideas that never reach the stage of commercial production. This patent is therefore only an indication of the avenues explored by Xiaomi and it is still too early to know if this technology will really be commercialized.
But if Xiaomi’s self-adjusting ring were to be commercialized, it will certainly encourage other companies in the sector to develop similar concepts. Other players, like Oura, are already exploring this possibility. This kind of very technical development on such a small device is still at an early stage. The next step for Xiaomi will be to determine whether this project can be brought to market under viable conditions.
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