Apple Ring "stillborn"? Research company predicts Apple will launch a smart ring before 2026, but it is refuted by a well-known influencer

According to Zhītōng Finance APP, as reported by CCS Insight, Apple (AAPL.US) may launch a smart ring competing with Samsung (SSNLF.US) by 2026, increasing the American tech giant's focus on the health sector. This prediction is part of CCS Insight's annual forecast report, and if it comes true, it will be the first new product from this tech giant since the launch of Apple Vision Pro this year. Ben Wood, Chief Analyst at CCS Insight, stated on Tuesday, "Health has become a fundamental pillar for Apple. In fact, I would even say that when Tim Cook decides to relinquish control and retire... one of the main legacies he leaves behind at Apple will be personal health." "Given Cook's personal deep involvement in the health sector, I believe a ring is a very beneficial extension for Apple," he added. Wood emphasized Apple's focus on the health sector, from the Apple Watch equipped with all sensors to the latest AirPods Pro 2 headphones that can function as hearing aids. Similar to smartwatches, smart rings embed various sensors for tracking health indicators such as heart rate. Oura is one of the pioneers in this field, but Samsung introduced the Galaxy Ring this year, bringing this style of product to a wider audience as it aims to make greater efforts in the health sector. Priced at $399, the Samsung Galaxy Ring adds to this South Korean tech giant's product lineup from smartphones to smartwatches, hoping to lock users into its device ecosystem. Apple also adopts a similar strategy in its product suite, attempting to keep its already sticky customers within its hardware ecosystem. Wood mentioned that the ring will add another product to their portfolio. Unlike other consumer electronics products, rings are complex from a retail perspective due to variations in finger sizes. Samsung offers rings in various sizes and colors, with users receiving a sample size kit before purchasing a ring. Wood stated that the difference between Apple and Samsung is that Apple has a large and stylish physical retail presence, which will help sell ring products to customers. Wood said, "I also think their retail footprint is very well suited for it, as rings are complex products to bring to market." Rings are also a fashion item. Wood mentioned that Apple's products still have appeal in the market. "Apple is a brand with a certain prestige, a product that people are proud of. I believe Apple's beautifully designed ring can become a symbol of status," Wood said. Project Possibly Abandoned However, according to well-known leaker Mark Gurman, Apple has shelved the development of the smart ring. This decision was made after years of internal exploration and discussions within Apple, with the company ultimately prioritizing its mature wearable technology - the Apple Watch According to analysis, the reason Apple may shelve the smart ring is that this product could cannibalize Apple Watch sales, which is considered a key factor in Apple's decision. Gurman said, "Apple believes there is no reason to launch a new product that could cannibalize Apple Watch sales, as Apple Watch continues to perform strongly and lead in the fitness tracking market." Although there have been rumors about Apple's smart ring for years, the company has never officially confirmed its development. This report suggests that the project may have never progressed beyond internal testing and prototype stages. This news may disappoint fans hoping for a more streamlined wearable device from Apple. However, it reinforces the company's commitment to Apple Watch as its primary wearable device