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We've already seen smart rings that tell the time,
and rings that show notifications from a smartphone but the latest wave
features rings that control just about anything you can think of.
Ring by Logbar is the latest wearable tech worn on the forefinger that
can be used to control smart household items, apps, and even make
payments with the swipe of a finger.
For example, drawing an envelope shape in mid-air opens an email,
drawing a camera opens the camera app on a connected phone, or drawing a
musical note will start playing songs.
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Ring also comes with Text Transmission that lets people write messages
by drawing letters with their finger in mid-air.
It was created by Californian-based firm Logbar's CEO Takuro Yoshida and
is expected to go on sale in July. Early versions of the device can be
pre-ordered for $145 (£87).
To activate Ring, wearers press a button on the side. The
battery-powered Ring is fitted with motion sensors, a touch sensor, a
Bluetooth chip, LEDs and a vibration pad.
Wearers can choose to receive alerts and notifications, such as new
emails or Facebook posts, using either vibrations, or flashing LEDs
located near the power button.
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The Ring comes with a number of gestures pre-installed but gestures can
also be customised using the Ring app.
The Ring Font feature can also be used to calibrate the text
transmission meaning Ring will recognise the wearer’s handwriting.
To make payments, Ring connects via Bluetooth to Apple’s iBeacon app.
Using GPS, the ring locates the shop or restaurant the wearer is in,
they can then trace their finger over the numbers on the bill to tell
iBeacon how much they have been charged. The payment is then confirmed.
Logbar’s Ring can be connected via Bluetooth directly to a smart device,
or any compatible device within a network including smart lights and
TVs. It will also work with Google Glass and smartwatches.
Ring currently works with iOS 7 and Android 4.4. Logbar is working on a
Windows Phone version.
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Logbar's Ring only detects the movement of the finger it is being worn
on and the company claims Ring can perform up to 1,000 gestures before
its battery needs to be replaced.
To achieve funding for the Ring, Yoshida set up a Kickstarter campaign
that runs until April 4.
Yoshida wanted to raise $250,000 (£149,000) but the campaign has already
reached more than $433,000 (£259,000).
To achieve funding for the Ring, pictured, Logbar has set up a
Kickstarter campaign that runs until April 4. The firm wanted to raise
$250,000 (£149,000) but the campaign has already reached more than
$433,000 (£259,000).
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