The entry of big names into a niche market always tends to liven things up and inspire others to do the same. That’s what seems to be about to happen with the smart ring segment. Currently, brands like OPPO, Honor, and Xiaomi are reportedly working on similar wearables. A new patent suggests that Xiaomi’s smart ring would adjust to your finger size automatically. It also describes advanced connectivity and telecommunications features.
If you don’t know exactly what size is right for you, buying a ring (normal or smart) without going to a physical store can be a cumbersome process. In the case of the Galaxy Ring, you can request a test kit with all the available sizes to find out which one to buy. However, the sizing kit often comes with an additional cost. This complicates the purchase process from external platforms or retailers.
Xiaomi Smart Ring patent describes a system that automatically adjusts to your finger
Xiaomi’s patent outlines a neat system that addresses the issue of smart ring size. The patent filed with the China National Intellectual Property Administration (CNIPA) shows that the ring’s spring mechanism on the inner side integrates a component with elastic properties (PVC or rubbery material). This will allow the ring to always have the perfect fit on your finger.
Offering a ring with a self-adjusting size opens up more possibilities. You could wear it on any finger you want and even lend it out. Both things would be impossible with fixed-size smart rings. Furthermore, the latter could cause discomfort in situations related to finger swelling or fluctuations in weight. In addition, it would allow Xiaomi to develop a single-size ring, potentially reducing the production costs and sales price of the product.
The ring would be packed with advanced features
The patent reveals more interesting aspects of Xiaomi’s smart ring. The wearable would be compatible not only with Bluetooth but with WiFi and mobile networks (2G, 3G, 4G LTE, 5G NR). It would even integrate an NFC chip, a UWB chip, and internal storage. The sensor section includes a proximity sensor, light sensor, acceleration sensor, gyroscope, magnetic sensor, and temperature sensor. There would even be a touch zone, a microphone, and a small speaker to enable telecommunication. Xiaomi would also integrate air gesture technology to control the brand’s devices.
If Xiaomi really has the idea of producing the patented device, it will be the most advanced smart ring ever seen in the consumer market. Anyway, let’s remember that patents do not always result in final products. However, the arrival of a wearable with such features would be excellent news for the segment.
In related news, Oura could also be working on a self-adjusting sizing ring, while Apple may have ruled out entering the segment altogether.
