Oura, the well-known smart ring manufacturer, has launched a lawsuit against Samsung, Zepp Health, Noise, and Reebok, alleging “illegal importation and distribution of products” that purportedly violate its patents. The legal actions, submitted to the Eastern Texas U.S. District Court, point to the Samsung Galaxy Ring, Amazfit Helio Ring, Reebok Smart Ring, and Luna Ring, asserting that they incorporate designs safeguarded by Oura’s ‘178 “Wearable computing device” patent. Oura has previously achieved victories in similar legal proceedings against Ringconn and Circular, forcing them to create royalty-based patent agreements.
The company contends that its patented innovation, which entails embedding electronic components between the inner and outer layers of a ring, is being wrongfully utilized by these rivals. Oura’s legal approach seeks to establish licensing arrangements, permitting competitors to keep marketing their products in the U.S. in return for royalty compensation. While smaller companies have acquiesced, Samsung has previously countered with a lawsuit against Oura, questioning the extent of its patents. The results of these legal confrontations could greatly influence the smart ring industry, deciding whether competitors will incur licensing costs or confront possible sales prohibitions.
