The Oura Ring 5 is finally here, and it delivers what many fans have been asking for: a smaller, lighter form factor. Announced today, the new smart ring measures just 6.09mm wide and 2.29mm thick, making it 40% smaller than the Oura Ring 4. Depending on the size, it weighs between 2 and 2.69 grams. The company claims the redesign also incorporates stronger LEDs and optimized battery life, lasting six to nine days on a charge. The ring is made from titanium, is IP68 weather resistant, and features a coating that Oura says is less scratch-prone than previous models. A new charging case, sold separately for $99, now holds five full charges and works with wireless chargers.
Hardware Improvements
The Oura Ring 5 retains the signature look of its predecessors, but every millimeter has been reengineered. The slim profile is immediately noticeable when worn, addressing the main complaint from those who found earlier rings too bulky. The reduction in width to 6.09mm (down from 7.9mm) and thickness to 2.29mm (down from 2.88mm) makes it more comfortable for everyday wear, especially on smaller fingers. The optional charging case has also been upgraded: it now supports Qi wireless charging, so users can top up the ring's battery without plugging in a cable. The case itself is smaller than before and can store up to five full charges, making it ideal for travel.
One downside is sizing. Oura recommends that customers upgrading from the Ring 4 use the new sizing kit because the internal components have been redesigned. Some users may find themselves between sizes, requiring a larger or smaller ring for a proper fit. Additionally, the Ring 5 is only available in sizes 6 to 13, dropping the size 4 and 5 options that were offered with the Ring 4. Oura says this is because the Ring 4 is still relatively new and demand for the smallest sizes is still being assessed. There is also no ceramic option at launch, which was a popular choice for the Ring 4.
Software Updates: Health Radar and More
Alongside the hardware, Oura is introducing a major software update. The centerpiece is Health Radar, a suite of features that builds on the existing Symptom Radar. Health Radar monitors multiple health signals—including nighttime blood pressure trends, breathing patterns, and imported medical records—and alerts users when a significant change occurs. This eliminates the need to check each metric individually. The feature is available to all subscribers with a compatible Oura ring.
For those using GLP-1 medications like Ozempic or Wegovy, Oura is adding dedicated GLP-1 insights. Users can log dosages, track side effects, and see how the medication affects metrics such as resting heart rate. The company emphasizes that this is not medical advice but a tool for self-monitoring. Similarly, lab uploads allow users to import blood test results directly into the app and chat with Oura's AI chatbot about the findings. Both features are part of Oura Labs, an experimental beta program.
Fitness tracking is also getting an upgrade. The Oura app now supports live activity monitoring when paired with a third-party heart rate monitor, displaying real-time metrics during workouts. Additionally, Oura is launching the Brain Health Study, a research project that asks users to opt in and share data to help study how metrics correlate with cognitive performance. The study is live today, with the rest of the software updates rolling out in June.
Privacy and Data Deletion
Given the sensitivity of health data, Oura is introducing a Time-based Data Deletion feature. This allows users to erase their information from a specific window of time, providing more granular control over privacy. The move comes after Oura faced criticism over its partnership with Palantir last year, which raised concerns about data sharing. The company says it is committed to transparency and user control.
Background and Market Context
Oura has been a pioneer in the smart ring space since its first generation launched in 2015. Over the years, the company has refined its sensors, added features like cycle tracking and stress monitoring, and built a loyal user base. The Ring 4, released in late 2024, introduced a more advanced sensor array and improved battery life. Now, with the Ring 5, Oura is focusing on ergonomics and software intelligence.
The wearable market is increasingly competitive. Samsung entered the smart ring category with the Galaxy Ring in 2024, and companies like Ultrahuman and Amazfit have also launched competing products. Oura differentiates itself through its deep health analytics, research partnerships, and subscription-based software platform. The Ring 5's smaller size and lighter weight are designed to win over those who have been hesitant about wearing a ring full-time.
Pricing remains consistent with past launches: the Oura Ring 5 starts at $399 for black and silver, and $499 for other colors including the new “deep rose” finish. Preorders begin today at Oura.com, Amazon, Walmart, and other retailers, with shipments starting June 4th. The ring requires a monthly subscription ($5.99) for full access to advanced features, though basic functionality is included with the purchase.
All photography provided by Oura.
Source:The Verge News