If you’re unsure about getting a smart ring for yourself and wondering if Samsung’s Galaxy Ring, among its more highly established competitors, is a good fit for you, you might wanna consider its compatibility with the smartphone you have.
Right from its first reveal at the Unpacked 2024 alongside Galaxy S24 and S24 Ultra in January, the Galaxy Ring was undoubtedly the most sought-after smart ring. But team Android or iOS, you might want to hold your horses on your purchase and read this first –
Bad News for iPhone Users
Samsung boasts a ton of features on its smart ring, which keep a tab on your health and wellbeing. But the shiny, new ring has a catch- Samsung Galaxy Ring is only compatible with Android smartphones.
You see, Samsung is trying to build an ecosystem as strong as Apple, and to do that, the AI features of the Ring will only be compatible with Samsung Galaxy devices. All other features, Android compatible.
iPhone users, you might wanna divert your attention to the Oura Ring or hold on for when Apple comes out with their version. This one’s not it just yet.
Is There Hope for An iOS x Samsung Integration?
If you’re hoping for an Android x iOS integration, it seems futile. This integration is nearly impossible, in my opinion.
I am pretty sure that Samsung’s decision to limit its Galaxy Ring access to Android devices is one cog in its broader goal to create an ecosystem as well-oiled as Apple’s.
This shouldn’t be a complete shocker since Samsung’s previous launches- the Galaxy Watch 7 and Ultra, were also Android compatible only. This move sure is risky. With its Galaxy Ring launch, being the winner of the race between the two, they could either convert iOS users to Android, or Apple could launch its smart ring at a lower price and stomp on Samsung’s strategy.
Samsung Vice President Hon Pak said in the Unpacked Event 2024 while revealing the discreet and minimalist fitness ring –
“We recognize the iOS/Android challenge, and we ultimately hope that our devices are of such caliber that people will be willing to switch.”
That being said, we never know if Samsung’s next move will be to conquer iPhone lovers by making it compatible with iOS in the future, but to me, it seems highly unlikely. I mean, Apple products aren’t compatible with Android, either. It’s a fair game.
Galaxy Ring Alternatives for iOS Users
So, where do my fellow iOS users go if they wanna buy a smart ring? Although Apple seems to be developing its smart ring behind closed curtains, the launch date is up in the air. Good news is- there are so many options available in the market. Like the Miranda Kerr approved Oura Ring.
If the price tag seems a little hefty, we have alternatives to the Oura Ring as well, which are iOS compatible. Other rings include- Evie, Ultrahuman, RingConn, etc.
Frequently Asked Questions
Wrap Up
From a comparison perspective, Apple has a well-established ecosystem, and Samsung, on the other hand, has some growing up to do.
With alternatives at par with the Samsung Galaxy Ring available in the market, consumers are spoilt for choice. While I don’t think that iPhone users will switch to Android for a smart ring, what Apple comes up with remains to be seen.
