Buzz
The rumors have been confirmed—Oura has officially released the fourth generation of their smart ring. Starting at $349, the new ring is available in a broader range of sizes, from 4 to 15. You can begin pre-ordering it today, with shipments set to begin on October 15.
What’s new with the Oura Gen 4?
The design has been updated to be more streamlined, as described by the company. While earlier models featured small bumps for the sensors on the ring’s interior, the Gen 4 now includes recessed sensors, creating a smooth inner surface. There’s also a small indentation on the inside to help align it with the charger, as well as a decorative indent on the outside.
The Gen 4 boasts additional sensors and a refined algorithm, which the company claims enhances its precision. They refer to a study, though full details have not been shared; the algorithm is proprietary, and the study results are provided as a brief article and video.
Oura is introducing a revamped version of its app, now featuring just three tabs at the bottom (down from five). The update includes a more refined daytime stress algorithm, a fertile window tracker for menstrual cycle monitoring, and the Oura Labs collection of experimental features, previously exclusive to iOS, is now available on Android.
How does the price of the Oura Gen 4 compare to previous models?
On the Oura website, the Gen 4 ring is currently priced at $349 for silver or black, $399 for brushed silver or 'stealth' (matte black), and $499 for gold or rose gold.
Previously, the Oura Gen 3 ring was priced the same for the smooth 'Horizon' shape, and $50 less for the flat-topped 'Heritage' shape. However, discounts are currently available on Gen 3 rings on Amazon, such as a silver Horizon for $299.
To unlock most of the Oura ring's features, a subscription is still required. While you can access readiness and sleep scores without one, you won’t be able to see more valuable data like HRV or newer features such as resilience. The subscription costs $5.99 per month or $69.99 annually.
Oura highlights that both the ring and its subscription qualify as eligible expenses for FSA and HSA accounts.
How does the Gen 4 sizing differ from Gen 3?
The previous models offered sizes ranging from 6 to 13, but the Gen 4 now includes two larger and two smaller sizes, expanding the available range from size 4 to 15.
The ring's interior shape has been redesigned (no more bumps), so a new sizing kit is included. This kit contains plastic rings in every available size, and Oura recommends testing the chosen size by wearing it for 24 hours. Since fingers can swell during exercise, hot weather, or sleep, this test ensures you select a size that fits comfortably all day and night.
You can request a free sizing kit directly from Oura, or purchase one for about $10 from Amazon or Best Buy. If you opt for one of these retailers, the kit includes a $10 credit that can be applied towards your actual ring purchase.
How does the battery life of the Gen 4 compare to that of the Gen 3?
According to Oura, the Gen 4 rings last up to eight days on a single charge, while the Gen 3 lasts around seven days. The exact battery life will depend on the ring's size and the specific features enabled in your settings.
Battery life has long been a concern as the rings age. My own Gen 2 lost most of its battery life just shy of two years, and its replacement, a Gen 3, appears to be following the same pattern (after 22 months, it only lasts 1-2 days on a charge). Will the Gen 4 fare better? Only time will tell.
Is there an upgrade or trade-in offer available for Gen 3 users?
No. When the Gen 3 was released, the company provided a trade-in credit and offered early adopters a lifetime app subscription. However, there are no similar promotions available for Gen 3 users who want to upgrade to the Gen 4.
