Oura launches Ring 5, the world’s smallest smart ring with blood pressure monitoring

Oura just announced its most significant hardware update in years. The Oura Ring 5 shrinks the company's health tracker by 40% while adding new sensors and AI-powered health monitoring that goes beyond simple fitness tracking.

The new ring includes blood pressure monitoring, breathing pattern analysis, and integration with medical records. Oura is positioning the device as a shift from reactive health tracking to proactive health management, with features designed to catch potential issues before they become serious problems.

What's new?

The Oura Ring 5 is dramatically smaller than previous versions while packing more sensors into the titanium body. Key hardware improvements include:

• 40% size reduction compared to Ring 4
• Redesigned sensor architecture with 12 signal pathways for better accuracy across different skin tones
• Week-long battery life with optional portable charging case
• Enhanced scratch resistance and 100-meter water resistance
• New color options including redesigned Gold and Deep Rose finishes

The software updates are equally significant. Health Radar continuously monitors biometric signals to detect patterns that might indicate health issues:

• Blood Pressure Signals: Tracks nighttime blood pressure patterns to detect cardiovascular strain
• Nighttime Breathing: Monitors sleep-related breathing disturbances over 30-day periods
• Health Records: Integrates clinical data with daily biometrics for a complete health picture
• Live Activity Tracking: Real-time workout metrics with third-party heart rate monitor support

Oura also added GLP-1 medication tracking for diabetes and weight loss drugs, plus partnerships with telehealth provider Counsel Health for in-app medical consultations.

Why does it matter?

This release signals Oura's attempt to move beyond the fitness tracker market into legitimate health monitoring. Blood pressure tracking is particularly significant because high blood pressure often shows no symptoms until serious complications develop.

The integration with medical records and telehealth services suggests Oura wants to become part of the healthcare system rather than just a consumer gadget. Dr. Ricky Bloomfield, Oura's chief medical officer, emphasized that Health Radar helps people "see when something needs attention" before problems develop.

The size reduction addresses one of the biggest barriers to smart ring adoption. Many potential users found previous generations too bulky for daily wear, especially those with smaller fingers.

The context

Oura faces increasing competition in the smart ring space. Samsung launched its Galaxy Ring this year, and Apple continues to be rumored to be working on a ring device. The wearables market is also seeing pressure from advanced smartwatches that offer similar health monitoring features.

The company is betting that rings offer better biometric data than wrist-worn devices. Oura claims finger arteries provide pulse signals up to 100 times stronger than wrist readings, giving more accurate health measurements.

Oura's business model depends on subscription revenue rather than just hardware sales. The company charges $5.99 monthly for its health insights service and reports that over 80% of members renew after their first year. The company is on track to surpass 5 million paid subscribers this quarter.

The Ring 5 costs $399 for basic finishes and $499 for premium colors. The optional charging case adds $99. Pre-orders start today with shipping beginning June 4, 2026. The new health features will roll out gradually, starting with U.S. users in June.