Samsung unveils health-tracking Galaxy Ring in three colors and nine sizes

Samsung unveiled the Galaxy Ring at MWC 2024 featuring sleep-tracking capabilities and other data. KT introduced its UATM traffic management system.

Samsung Electronics' Galaxy Ring displayed at MWC 2024 in Barcelona, Spain [SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS]

Samsung Electronics' Galaxy Ring made its first physical debut at Mobile World Congress (MWC) 2024 on Monday, hinting at its potential as the latest addition to Samsung's lineup of wearable technology that includes the Galaxy Watch.

The Galaxy Ring was available in three colors — black, gold and silver — and nine sizes. MWC attendees could not actually wear the displayed units, which were encased in acrylic at the show, but the product is scheduled to hit shelves later this year.

"The Galaxy Ring can be worn comfortably during sleep and enables precise health data measurement with its inner surface designed to wrap around the finger," said Samsung Electronics on Monday.

Avi Greengard, an analyst from Tech Potential who had the opportunity to wear a prototype of the Galaxy Ring after Samsung's Unpacked event earlier this year, remarked that the device was “unbelievably lightweight” and is available in sizes up to 13, which is approximately 22.2 millimeters (0.87 inches) in diameter.

Samsung Electronics' Galaxy Ring displayed at MWC 2024 in Barcelona, Spain [SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS]

The Galaxy Ring is being observed with interest as a possible accessory to the Galaxy Watch. The gadget, which represents a brand new product category for Samsung, could potentially fill in data gaps during periods when watches aren't worn, such as during sleep.

The Ring's lack of a display also indicates a focus on optimizing battery life, which will enable more continuous health tracking and potential integration with the Galaxy Wearable app.

“The Ring is smaller than the Watch, allowing for prolonged wear and precise measurements by conforming to the finger,” said Roh Tae-moon, president and head of Samsung's Mobile eXperience. “It represents a form factor advancement in digital health solutions.”

The Galaxy Ring will face some steep competition, however. It's in direct competition with the popular Oura Ring, which is currently on its third generation, while rumors have suggested that Apple has a similar product in the works.

KT's experience zone for Urban Air Mobility (UAM) at MWC 2024 in Barcelona, Spain [KT]

In another unveiling at MWC 2024 in Barcelona, telecommunications company KT introduced the Intelligent Urban Air Mobility Traffic Management System (UATM), aiming to expedite the widespread adoption of Urban Air Mobility (UAM) as a solution to traffic congestion.

KT highlighted its development of advanced traffic management systems and aviation network-related technologies for the safe operation of UAM.

By integrating digital twin technology and AI, KT's UATM digitally replicates real-world UAM operations, enabling enhanced safety measures based on extensive data analysis and simulation.

A robot testing the durability of panels at the Samsung Display booth during MWC 2024 [SAMSUNG DISPLAY]

Samsung Display also unveiled OLED Vibes, a booth showcasing a robot dressed as a cook dipping panels into water, slicing with a model knife and sprinkling actual salt and pepper, in order to demonstrate the durability and water resistance of the company's foldable panels.

The robot, originally used for inspection purposes on Vietnamese production lines, displays various expressions through a 9.4-inch circular OLED display.

BY KANG KWANG-WOO,SEO JI-EUN [seo.jieun1@joongang.co.kr]