Oura Ring 4 is finally available – 3 things I’m relieved about. Oura does better this time

The long-awaited Oura Ring 4 has finally launched, and with it you can expect some key updates in terms of design, accuracy, and durability.

Since the launch of the flagship Oura Ring 3 in 2021, members have been eagerly awaiting the latest version of the ring since leaks of the Oura Ring 4 emerged this summer. I’ve been wearing the Oura Ring 3 for years, and despite my firm belief that it is the best smart ring for market, there are areas where Oura could improve in the latest version – and it looks like it has.

For those new to the smart ring scene, Oura has just revealed the updated Oura app for Oura Ring 3 and Oura Ring 4 users, along with the redesigned Oura Ring 4. I’ve been digging into what you can expect from the redesign and there are 3 big hardware improvements . I’m relieved that Oura is finally integrating. Here they are.

3 things Oura improves with Oura Ring 4

The Oura app is already quite comprehensive. However, users can use the refreshed app at no additional cost, and Oura Ring 3 users will be able to access all the new features in the Oura app with a quick update in the coming weeks.

App aside, I believe that if you’re planning to buy Oura Ring for the first time or upgrade from version 3, some hardware modifications are needed, and it looks like these were implemented with the release of Oura Ring 4.

1. Improved accuracy

Undoubtedly already ahead of the curve in trustworthy tracking, Oura Ring 4 promises intelligent detection, powered by a combination of algorithm and “research-grade sensors” to adapt to the unique physiology of fingers for more accurate and continuous data delivery.

Unlike Ring 3, these sensors are recessed to provide greater comfort and adapt to real-world situations, such as the ring’s rotation throughout the day or its movement. It also takes into account unique differences in finger shape, anatomy and skin tone.

Tom Hale, CEO of Oura, says the next-generation Oura Ring 4, refreshed app and Smart Sensing platform “represent a significant leap forward in wearables in terms of accuracy, comfort, personalization and design.”

Sensors have more than twice the number of signal paths (8 to 18 with 2 triple LEDs and 3 photo LEDs) compared to Oura Ring 3, adapting to find the best signal path, reducing data gaps and ensuring more accurate and continuous data collection for users – day and night.

Oura conducted a study in August 2024 with 60 participants of varying ages, genders, and skin tones who were asked to wear the Oura Ring 3 and Oura Ring 4 in a sleep clinic overnight, and the results are truly impressive.

The results showed a 120% improvement in blood oxygen (Sp02) readings, which means a 30% increase in the accuracy of the average Sp02 measurement overnight; 15% more accurate Breathing Disorder Index (BDI); 7% and 31% less differences in heart rate during the day and heart rate at night, respectively.

(Image source: Future)

Oura also said that battery life has been optimized to 8 days (a day longer than the Oura Ring 3 and Samsung Galaxy Ring), so the updated sensors shouldn’t negatively impact the Ring’s battery life. After 3 years, I now charge my Ring 3 every other day, so this is a welcome upgrade for me.

Holly Shelton, chief product officer at Oura, says the goal is to make Oura Ring 4 “lifeproof” while “setting a new standard for accuracy.”

According to Oura, there have also been improvements to automatic activity detection, including heart rate detection and heart rate zones so you don’t have to worry about recording them manually, and activity types have been increased from 5 to 40 for even more accurate exercise tracking.

Additionally, Oura suggested improvements in daily stress function and reproductive health. Fertile Window will allow members to view even more reproductive cycle statistics, including fertile and ovulation days, but this is not yet available.

2. More elegant appearance

(Image source: Android Authority)

The main goal is comfort. Oura Ring 4 has recessed sensors (we’re talking 0.33mm high compared to the previous 1.3mm) that hug your finger and provide a smooth interior. This should improve overall comfort, although the dome sensors on these three aren’t a big issue for me personally. Oura also created a thinner, more elegant ring design without sacrificing sensor accuracy.

There are now 12 sizes from 4 to 15 (4 more than before) and 6 color options including rose gold, gold, silver, brushed silver, Stealth and a new black finish with tungsten PVD coating to increase durability and give a “deeper “black look” Oura also removed the Horizon and Heritage design options in favor of a single, completely round Horizon look.

If you are planning to purchase Oura Ring 4, Oura recommends a new sizing kit as recessed sensors may affect fit. I haven’t had any hands-on experience with the Oura Ring 4 yet, but I’m excited to see how these changes impact usability and everyday comfort.

3. Better durability

After wearing the gold Oura Ring 3 for a few years – it wasn’t performing well. Mine is scratched and battered, with little left of the original gold color. Given that Oura Ring is designed for activity and workout tracking, I expected it to be difficult to handle most events, so I was curious to see what changes were made to Oura Ring 4.

It’s worth noting that the ring now has a full titanium interior and exterior compared to the Ring 3’s titanium case and epoxy interior. Because titanium directs light better and blocks stray light, Oura says this should help increase the precision of the ring as well as increase its durability. Since issue #3 was the first-ever release of the ring, it appears that Oura has built a more solid titanium construction this time around.

Oura Ring 4 may be the most discreet, comfortable and accurate smart ring ever. The model will be available starting at $349 on October 15, 2024. You can access a free month of membership with any purchase. Monthly membership costs $5.99 or $69.99 for an annual membership.