Updated
Updated · ZDNet · Jun 9
Oura Ring 5 Shrinks 40% as Dexcom Cuts CGM Size by 50%
Updated
Updated · ZDNet · Jun 9

Oura Ring 5 Shrinks 40% as Dexcom Cuts CGM Size by 50%

1 articles · Updated · ZDNet · Jun 9

Summary

  • Oura’s newly unveiled Ring 5 is 40% thinner than Ring 4, while Dexcom said in May it reduced the size of its latest continuous glucose monitor by 50%.
  • The smaller designs reflect a push to make health trackers less noticeable and easier to wear continuously, with companies betting that discretion improves long-term use.
  • Oura said miniaturized LEDs, a redesigned battery and refined algorithms let the slimmer ring extend battery life to 6-9 days from 5-8 days.
  • Analysts say that shift is possible because most health trackers mainly collect data and send it to phone apps, where the software delivers the core health insights and diagnostics.
  • The broader industry goal is an always-worn device that blends into daily life while building enough data to flag anomalies and support FDA-cleared health features.

Insights

With relaxed FDA rules, how can we trust that our tiny new health gadgets are truly accurate?
Does constant, invisible health monitoring actually improve our well-being or just create new anxieties?
As health trackers become invisible, who truly controls the sensitive data our bodies constantly generate?