The first look at the alleged Oura Ring Gen4 is out, and it seems like Oura has really thought about a design change for its brand new Gen. Besides the look, what else do I expect from the Gen4, and are there any rumors?
Recently, Chantel Jeffries, a popular influencer, posted a story on Snapchat that stirred more news about her receiving a new-gen exclusive Gen 4. Upon sifting, it is found that she has merely got a new Horizon Gen3, when she previously had a Heritage of the same.
This does confirms one thing that people are waiting anxiously for Oura Gen 4 and there might be more into it than what’s known up until now.
Oura Ring 4 Release Date
It is highly expected that Oura Ring 4 is going to be released in 2024. Initially, this was my assumption based on Oura’s history. However, Oura CEO Tom Hale made a few comments in an interview that pushed over the Oura Ring 4 release theory.
| Oura Ring | Release Year |
|---|---|
| Oura Ring (First Generation) | 2015 |
| Oura Gen2 | 2018 |
| Oura Gen3 | 2021 |
| Oura Gen4 | 2024 (expected/rumored) |
Oura was expected to launch the Gen4 ring in 2024. But it is almost mid-2024, and there is no official confirmation from the Oura team.
However, according to FCC certification listings, a new OA11 Size 10 smart ring was tested, and here, OA11 is used to denote the Gen 4 Oura ring. There are no visible bulbous sensors; the ring edges aren’t as curvy or circular as that of Gen3.
The tested rings were of 7, 9, 13, and 15 sizes, so there’s a chance this time Gen 4 will come into 5 to 15 sizes. I was expecting mid-sizes for better comfort.
Also, Oura’s partnership with Proxy hints at the NTC payment feature, which would be amazing to have in a smart ring. Oura, being the actual disruptor in the smart ring industry, is trying to be the leading face even when new contenders have entered the market.
Oura Ring 4 Expected Features
Honestly, from forums and community sites, I found that Oura fans are eager to see some more advanced features in the Oura Ring. So, if the Oura Gen4 smart ring is in the development funnel, as an Oura user, I expect the following features should be included:
1. Contactless Payments
The acquisition of digital identity company Proxy in 2023 by Oura fueled the argument that maybe Oura Ring is considering introducing the contactless payment feature. Oura is mainly focused on health features; however, I would be truly happy if I could make payments with my favorite Oura ring, too!
2. Symptom Radar
If you are an iOS user, you might know about Oura Labs. Here, Oura is testing a new feature, “Symptom Radar,” that will monitor the biometrics and warn users of potential health issues. I assume that this feature could be introduced soon in Gen4.
3. Proactive Insights
It is expected that Oura will improve holistic insights. Oura has already introduced an AI-powered wellness advisor. I hope the Oura AI coach becomes more proactive in Gen4 and starts making sense of my health data rather than just simply stating when my body needs rest.
4. Improved Health Sensors
Oura Gen3 comes with Infrared photoplethysmography sensors (PPG), a Negative Temperature Coefficient (NTC) sensor, and a 3D accelerometer for movement. The accuracy level of all three sensors is expected to have some significant improvements in Gen4.
5. Notification Alert (Ring Vibration)
It would be great if Oura Ring Gen4 introduce a notification alert in the ring. The ring may blink lights whenever a user receives a message, notification, or call in the connected smartphone. It will decrease the screen time more.
Frequently Asked Questions
Wrap Up
Being an Oura Gen3 user, I have never been disappointed with the ring’s features. However, that does not mean that there is no need for improvements. For instance, in the Gen4 Oura, I’m looking forward to experiencing improved sensors (for activity tracking mainly), contactless payment, symptom radar, and notification alerts.
It’s just a matter of time before the Samsung smart ring can challenge the crown. Is Oura preparing Gen4 as a hidden card? Stay tuned until I find the answer for you!
