The Ultrahuman Ring Air has achieved a significant milestone by becoming the first smart ring to incorporate the ability to detect atrial fibrillation (AFib). This feature isn’t simply a software update; it’s the cornerstone of Ultrahuman’s newly launched PowerPlugs app store for the smart ring. However, like many modern health and fitness features, a subscription is required to access it.
Let’s delve into the feature itself. By wearing the Ultrahuman Ring Air, the device will continuously monitor your heart rhythm, diligently searching for any signs of irregularities. This proactive approach serves as an early warning system for potential issues that could escalate into serious health concerns. Ultrahuman CEO Mohit Kumar lauded the feature as a “lifesaving technology” and revealed that it has secured “medical approval in limited markets, and we’re aggressively launching new markets with regulator approval every few weeks.”
Digital Trends inquired about the specific markets where the feature would be available. In a written response, Kumar confirmed that the feature will debut in the U.K., Europe, the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, and Singapore. He further stated that the US and India are on the launch roadmap, with an anticipated arrival within the next two to three months.
It’s worth noting that the Apple Watch recently received FDA approval under its Medical Device Development Tools (MDDT) program as a device capable of assessing atrial fibrillation. The Withings ScanWatch and Withings ScanWatch 2 also boast FDA approval for AFib detection and both smartwatches integrate an ECG. While other devices equipped with an ECG feature can also monitor for AFib, it’s important to remember that the feature may not have undergone FDA approval.
Now, let’s shift our attention to the PowerPlugs app store and the associated subscriptions. Kumar is quoted as saying, “We built PowerPlugs for people to pick and choose what matters most for their health and wellness. Over the next few years, you could expect thousands of applications to be built on top of Ultrahuman’s comprehensive health data platform.”
Several PowerPlugs are readily available, featuring functionalities already present in the Ultrahuman app, such as Caffeine Window tracking, Cycle tracking, and Circadian alignment. These enhancements are offered free of charge. However, the AFib detection PowerPlug, unfortunately, comes with a subscription fee. It carries a monthly cost of $4.90, while a second feature called Cardio Adaptability has a $2.90 monthly subscription.
Looking ahead, Ultrahuman has taken a proactive step by opening its heart rate, accelerometer, and body temperature data streams to developers. This move allows developers to create additional tools using the UltraSignal developer platform and subsequently offer them in the app store. Expect to see a mix of free and paid apps as this ecosystem expands.
The announcement of Ultrahuman’s AFib detection and app store follows closely on the heels of Oura’s unveiling of its AI-powered assistant and Circular’s update to the Ring Slim. This flurry of activity underscores the growing competition among smart ring manufacturers as they strive to challenge established players like Samsung and its new Galaxy Ring.
