Apple Reportedly Develops iRing to Challenge $349 Oura and Samsung

Q: With new CEO John Ternus, will Apple finally launch the iRing that was reportedly paused under Tim Cook?

Apple is more likely to launch a smart ring under John Ternus than it was under Tim Cook, but there is still no firm evidence that an iRing will ship. The case for a Ternus-era launch rests on strategy and leadership. Reports say Apple explored ring-style wearables for years, with patents dating back to 2015, but the project was reportedly paused under Cook amid manufacturing complexity, sizing logistics, and doubts about the market’s scale versus the Apple Watch. Ternus, who becomes CEO on September 1, 2026, comes from hardware engineering and is widely seen as more willing to back technically ambitious new devices. Market conditions also make the idea more plausible now. Smart rings have moved from niche to fast-growing health wearables, led by Oura and joined by Samsung. A ring would fit Apple’s health push under Eddy Cue, could complement the Apple Watch with longer battery life and better overnight wear, and might give Apple a lower-cost entry in wearables. That strategic fit is stronger today than when Apple reportedly held back. Still, the evidence remains speculative. The current iRing talk is driven mainly by leaks, especially from Kosutami, not by Apple confirmation. Multiple reports stress that the project’s stage is unclear and that any launch is likely years away, with some estimates pointing to late 2027 or 2028. So the best answer is that Ternus improves the odds, but “finally launch” is still too strong based on what is publicly known.

3 articles · Updated · 9to5Mac · Jun 25

Leaker Kosutami said Apple has an "iRing" in development, marking the clearest report yet that the company may enter the smart-ring market.
The device is expected to compete directly with Oura Ring and Samsung Galaxy Ring as smart rings gain traction beyond smartwatches in health tracking.
No timeline, specifications or launch plans were disclosed, leaving unclear how advanced the project is or whether it will reach market.
Apple's broader health push could support the effort after Eddy Cue reportedly took over the Health division and pressed for more aggressive offerings.