Title: Samsung vs. Oura: The Legal Dispute Defining the Future of Smart Rings
The smart ring sector, still evolving, is currently facing a legal upheaval that could influence its trajectory. At the heart of this dispute are two significant entities: Samsung, a technological powerhouse making its debut in the smart ring arena with its Galaxy Ring, and Oura, a frontrunner in health-wearable technology noted for its vigorous protection of intellectual property. Although Samsung’s preemptive lawsuit against Oura was dismissed recently, the legal confrontation is ongoing—and its resolution could have substantial consequences for the entire smart ring landscape.
Samsung’s Preemptive Legal Attempt Falls Flat
In a calculated legal strategy, Samsung initiated a preemptive lawsuit against Oura in 2023, aiming for a declaratory judgment that would hinder Oura from suing it over patent violations. Samsung contended that Oura’s history of litigation against other smart ring brands—like Ultrahuman, Circular, and RingConn—posed a “real, imminent risk” to the Galaxy Ring.
However, on March 27, 2024, U.S. District Judge Araceli Martínez-Olguín dismissed the lawsuit without prejudice. The court determined that Oura’s vague assertions about enforcing its patents were not specifically aimed at Samsung and did not comprise a distinct threat. Lacking clear evidence of Oura targeting Samsung, the court decided that Samsung did not possess the standing to continue with the case.
Samsung has until late April to revise its complaint, but absent new evidence, its legal alternatives seem constrained. Despite this setback, Samsung might still try to refile or challenge the ruling to postpone any prospective litigation from Oura.
Oura’s Legal Campaign Against Rivals
While Samsung’s lawsuit faced dismissal, Oura is still actively involved in legal confrontations with various smart ring manufacturers. In March 2024, Oura lodged an International Trade Commission (ITC) complaint against Circular, RingConn, and Ultrahuman, alleging they infringed on its patents. The company sought a limited exclusion order and cease-and-desist orders that could effectively prohibit these products from being sold in the U.S.
The ITC initiated a Section 337 investigation in response, which is ongoing. As of December 2024, the case remains under an Administrative Law Judge’s review, with modifications still being made. The schedule for a conclusive decision is unclear, but the stakes are considerable. If Oura succeeds, it could significantly upheave the smart ring market by removing crucial competitors from the U.S. landscape.
An Unstable Yet Expanding Industry
In spite of the legal challenges, the smart ring industry is witnessing swift growth. Per IDC, sales of smart rings are predicted to surge from under one million units in 2023 to 2.5 million by 2025. Brands like Circular, Ultrahuman, and RingConn continue to advance, introducing new models equipped with enhanced features such as ECG monitoring, glucose trend tracking, and gesture controls.
Circular’s Ring 2, for instance, has garnered over $1.6 million on Kickstarter, promoting state-of-the-art health tracking capabilities. Ultrahuman is broadening its luxury smart ring series, while RingConn recently unveiled its Gen 2 Air model. These advancements indicate strong consumer enthusiasm and market vitality—despite the impending threat of legal disputes.
The Patent Competition
Oura’s assertive legal tactics are supported by an extensive patent portfolio. The firm has filed hundreds of patents, including numerous applications in 2025 alone. These patents encompass a wide array of innovations, from adaptable ring designs to futuristic functionalities like unlocking vehicles or managing devices using a ring.
Samsung, striving to keep pace, has also submitted patents for its Galaxy Ring range. These encompass features like external temperature sensors for fever detection, gesture controls for connected devices, and adjustable ring designs. With both firms heavily investing in intellectual property, the groundwork is laid for a protracted legal and technological rivalry.
What Comes Next?
Samsung’s legal challenge may have granted it some time, enabling the Galaxy Ring to launch and sell without disruption. However, should Oura opt to pursue legal action following the dismissal, it could influence future models of the Galaxy Ring, including the speculated Galaxy Ring 2.
Simultaneously, the result of Oura’s ITC complaint could alter the competitive environment. A favorable decision for Oura might rid the U.S. market of significant rivals, positioning it advantageously. On the flip side, a defeat could embolden other brands and lessen the intimidating impact of Oura’s legal actions.
Conclusion: A Legal Dispute with Industry-Wide Consequences
The smart ring industry stands at a pivotal juncture. Externally, innovation and consumer enthusiasm propel growth. Internally, legal confrontations threaten to disrupt the sector. Oura’s vigorous patent enforcement strategy and Samsung’s protective legal maneuvers underscore the high stakes at play.
For consumers, the outcome could dictate which smart rings remain accessible and which features become commonplace. For companies, it’s
