Oura has provided women with yet another excellent reason to wear its smart ring.

      Andy Boxall / Digital Trends

      Oura has implemented major modifications to the algorithm that determines the Readiness Score of the Oura Ring, aimed at providing women monitoring their menstrual cycles with a more precise and helpful metric. This update is part of an announcement that the company will collaborate with Scripps Research Digital Trials Center to enhance our understanding of physiological changes during pregnancy.

      The algorithm alteration will adjust the Readiness Score, which is derived from sleep patterns, body temperature, heart rate, heart rate variability (HRV), and other sensor data, to reflect the user’s cycle, thereby offering a more accurate assessment that facilitates daily condition tracking. Oura indicates that approximately 65% of users may experience changes in their scores due to the natural variations in key data points during the luteal phase of their cycle; however, the Readiness Score is expected to be lower on only about three percent of monitored days.

      “The menstrual cycle significantly influences women’s health and overall well-being, which is why we are committed to ensuring our app features accurately incorporate the latest scientific insights into the physiological shifts women undergo. By basing our product on thorough research, we're enabling women to confidently manage their unique cycles with the most precise and tailored data available,” stated Holly Shelton, Oura’s chief product officer.

      The new study forms part of this dedication. It will gather data from 10,000 women who have used the Oura Ring during pregnancy and will examine how physiological changes can influence pregnancy and related complications. The study aims to enhance understanding of issues such as preterm labor, the risk of miscarriage, and postpartum depression. Interested participants can apply to join the study via the Oura app.

      The current Oura Ring model is the Oura Ring 4, with prices starting at $399. However, we still recommend the third-generation Oura Ring if available, as it still offers excellent value.

      Andy Boxall is a Senior Writer for Digital Trends, focusing on mobile technology—a topic he has extensively covered.

      I enjoy the Oura Ring 4, with one notable exception

      After experiencing a heart attack four years ago at 33, the Oura Ring has been a reliable companion in managing my health. Initially, I utilized the Oura Ring 2, and shortly after, the Oura Ring 3 became my preferred choice upon its release three years ago.

      This year has seen a shift, as numerous companies vie for a place on our best smart rings list. The market for smart rings has expanded dramatically this year, with many brands launching first- or second-generation smart rings that provide viable alternatives to Oura. In response, Oura has introduced the Oura Ring 4.

      I tested two of the top smart rings for 2024. Here’s my recommendation for which one to purchase.

      Now that the Oura Ring 4 is available, how does it compare with the RingConn Gen 2? I’ve worn both smart rings for several weeks to discern their strengths and determine which is the better option for long-term use.

      While it may seem like the choice boils down to price and whether a subscription is desirable, my experience wearing these smart rings, examining their design distinctions, and regularly testing their differing apps allows me to offer deeper insights into which ring is worth wearing over time.

      Is the Oura Ring 4 or the RingConn Gen 2 more comfortable?

      The RingConn Gen 2 Andy Boxall / Digital Trends

      Oura Ring 4 vs. Samsung Galaxy Ring: Which should you choose?

      As a society, we are captivated by numerical data regarding our bodies, evident from the popularity of fitness trackers. The introduction of smart rings has further elevated this trend. The Oura Ring 4 and Samsung Galaxy Ring are two leading devices in this category (and likely will remain so unless Apple develops its own smart ring) — but there are notable differences between the two. If you're uncertain about which one to pick—if either— we have outlined their differences here.

      Oura Ring 4 vs. Samsung Galaxy Ring: specifications

      Oura Ring 4