Smart rings have evolved from a niche tech product to mainstream wearable health devices, with companies like Oura, UltraHuman, and Samsung now engaged in global patent battles. These legal conflicts spanning across Texas and Delhi courts highlight shifting innovation centers and raise questions about how intellectual property disputes impact feature development and consumer access.
• Oura has become the market leader in smart rings with over 100 patents
• UltraHuman (India) and Circular (France) represent strong international competition
• Patent lawsuits focus on hardware design, sensor technology, and software features
• UltraHuman countersued Oura in Delhi High Court after securing Indian patent #549915
• Circular opted for a settlement with Oura, agreeing to pay royalties
• Samsung filed preemptively to declare their Galaxy Ring doesn't infringe Oura's patents
• Business models vary between subscription (Oura) and one-time purchase (UltraHuman)
• Legal battles may accelerate innovation but risk increasing prices and limiting access
• Advanced features now include sleep tracking, readiness scores, and metabolic monitoring
• Global patent landscape creates complex regional requirements for smart ring makers
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