**Ultrahuman Rare Smart Rings: A Fusion of Technology and Elegance**
Smart rings have gained traction due to their health tracking capabilities, yet many often lack the appearance of luxurious jewelry. This may be changing with Ultrahuman’s latest Rare collection, which enhances its Ring Air models by enveloping them in opulent materials such as platinum and 18-karat gold.
### An Elegant Finishing Touch
The Rare line presents a more refined visual style, while the underlying technology remains unchanged from the standard Ultrahuman Ring Air. The sole significant difference is the heft attributed to the upscale materials, with aesthetics being notably enhanced. These rings continue to incorporate the same sensors and features, solidifying their position among the premier smart rings available. However, unlike conventional gold or platinum jewelry, they remain tech devices with a limited lifespan. I had the opportunity to examine these rings closely at CES 2025.
### Crafted for Aesthetic and Utility
At CES, a representative from Ultrahuman noted that some consumers had expressed interest in more luxurious designs that could serve as wedding or engagement rings. It remains uncertain whether these rings are intended to completely replace traditional wedding bands or act as occasional alternatives.
The Rare collection certainly excels in the “eye-catching” department. It features three color variations: Desert Rose, reminiscent of rose gold; Desert Snow, boasting a platinum hue; and Dune, a timeless gold. The Desert Rose and Dune options utilize 18-karat gold, while the Desert Snow variant showcases PT950 platinum.
### The Cost of Elegance
Naturally, luxury comes with a price. The standard Ultrahuman Ring Air retails for $350, while the 18-karat gold versions of the Rare collection are available for £1,800 (around $2,250). The platinum variant is similarly priced. To make the offer more attractive, these high-end rings include a lifetime membership to Ultrahuman X, encompassing an extended warranty and access to the platform’s PowerPlugs feature. Furthermore, the Rare line provides enhanced packaging and a more stylish charging dock. However, these bonuses may not completely validate the high price for the average consumer.
### The Technology Within
Even with its lavish exterior, the technology featured in the Rare collection mirrors that of the standard Ring Air. This is not a drawback, as the Ultrahuman Ring Air is already regarded as a premium smart ring. It monitors metrics such as heart rate, skin temperature, heart rate variability, sleep patterns, and even menstrual cycles. The accompanying app is user-friendly and delivers valuable insights into stress management and sleep enhancement—making it particularly beneficial for navigating the hectic environment of events like CES.
The sleep-tracking capability is particularly noteworthy. By examining heart rate variability and sleep quality, the ring can offer tailored suggestions to improve your rest. Importantly, these functionalities don’t require a subscription—the Ultrahuman X membership mainly serves warranty and additional benefit purposes.
### Is It Worth the Investment?
While the Ultrahuman Rare collection presents a distinctive combination of luxury and technology, it’s essential to recognize that smart rings are still gadgets with a finite lifespan. Unlike traditional gold or platinum rings that can endure for years, smart rings might require replacement after a few years due to technological advancements or battery decline. For many, more affordable gold-plated or faux gold alternatives from other brands might be a more sensible choice if they seek the aesthetic without the substantial cost.
In summary, the Ultrahuman Rare collection is an appealing choice for individuals desiring their smart ring to also function as a striking piece of jewelry. However, unless one is prepared to invest in a gadget with a limited lifespan, opting for the standard Ring Air or similar alternatives may prove to be the wiser financial decision.