New Smart Ring Claims to Measure Blood Pressure Without a Cuff
Signal's new $399 ring aims to provide accurate blood pressure readings without calibration from a traditional cuff device, a feature not currently offered by competitors.
A new competitor has entered the wearable health market with a smart ring that claims to measure blood pressure without the need for calibration from a traditional cuff device. The Signal ring, available for pre-order at $399, aims to provide accurate readings independently.
This development addresses a significant challenge in blood pressure monitoring. High blood pressure, or hypertension, affects nearly half of American adults and is often called a "silent killer" due to its potential to lead to heart attacks, stroke, and kidney failure. Accurate tracking is crucial for early detection and managing existing conditions, but even in clinical settings, measurements can be prone to error due to factors like diet, caffeine intake, smoking, leg position, and cuff size.
Traditional blood pressure devices, such as the upper-arm inflatable cuffs used by medical professionals, work by inflating to detect subtle arterial vibrations and converting these into blood pressure estimates. Wearable devices offer a more convenient alternative, capable of taking readings throughout the day as blood pressure fluctuates. However, doctors have historically expressed skepticism regarding their accuracy. Many current wearables circumvent this by requiring users to establish a baseline with a cuff measurement and periodically recalibrate the device with cuff-derived data.
Signal asserts that its ring utilizes a faster sensor specifically designed to assess blood pressure by analyzing the "shape and timing of the pulse." The company states that the ring measures blood flow at a higher resolution than previous devices, capturing finer details in the pulse wave that can indicate vascular tone. The device is designed to take real-time measurements throughout the day and also offers a guided "Zen-mode" reading.
Cardiologists advise individuals concerned about blood pressure to consult with a healthcare professional before adopting new monitoring tools. Experts recommend discussing how any device fits into an overall hypertension management plan rather than relying solely on new technology for self-monitoring.