Galaxy Ring 2 Shelved: What Smart Ring Should You Buy in 2026?
The smart ring market just got a lot simpler — and a lot more complicated. A federal judge has dismissed Samsung's lawsuit against Oura, the Galaxy Ring 2 has no confirmed launch date, and Oura's ITC complaint could potentially block Galaxy Ring imports to the U.S. entirely. If you're shopping for a smart ring in 2026, here's what's actually available and what we recommend.
Best Overall
Oura Ring Gen 4 — strongest health tracking, Olympic partnership, legal position only getting stronger.
Best Value
RingConn Gen 2 at $299 — no subscription, strong health tracking, Gen 3 coming this summer.
Galaxy Users
Galaxy Ring is still available, but the patent situation adds uncertainty. Buy at your own risk.
What Happened Between Samsung and Oura?
The timeline is dense, but here's what matters for buyers. Oura filed a complaint with the U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC)against Samsung, Reebok, Zepp Health (Amazfit), and Nexxbase (Luna Ring), alleging that their smart rings infringe on Oura's patents covering the ring form factor, internal components, and manufacturing methods.
Samsung tried to preempt this by filing a lawsuit seeking a ruling that the Galaxy Ring doesn't infringe. That suit has now been dismissed by a federal judge. Nexxbase has already voluntarily exited the U.S. market. If the ITC rules in Oura's favor, the Galaxy Ring could face a U.S. import ban — though existing units already sold would continue to function.
Is It Still Safe to Buy the Samsung Galaxy Ring?
The Samsung Galaxy Ring is still available and still a good product. If you own a Galaxy phone, the ecosystem integration is excellent and there's no subscription fee. However, there are real risks to consider:
- Import ban risk: If Oura wins the ITC case, new Galaxy Rings may become unavailable in the U.S.
- No Ring 2: The Galaxy Ring 2 is shelved indefinitely, so you won't be upgrading in Samsung's ecosystem
- Software updates: Samsung will continue supporting the current Ring, but major feature additions may be deprioritized
What Are the Best Smart Rings You Can Buy Right Now?
1. Oura Ring Gen 4 — Best Overall
The Oura Ring Gen 4 is the clear category leader. It just became the official wearable of Team USA and the LA28 Olympics, its blood pressure estimation feature launched in March, and its legal position means it's the one ring with zero uncertainty about continued availability. The downside: you'll need a $5.99/month subscription for full features.
2. RingConn Gen 2 — Best Value (No Subscription)
The RingConn Gen 2 delivers heart rate monitoring, SpO2, sleep staging, and stress tracking — all for $299 with no subscription. It's the best option for buyers who refuse to pay monthly fees. The Gen 3 is expected this summer with haptic alerts and blood pressure tracking, so you may want to wait if those features matter.
3. Ultrahuman Ring Air — Best for Fitness
The Ultrahuman Ring Airtakes a fitness-first approach with unique metabolic insights, no subscription, and a titanium build. It's the best choice for athletes and fitness enthusiasts who want performance data over general wellness scoring. Note that Ultrahuman previously faced an ITC import ban from Oura but has since resolved its licensing situation.
Should You Wait for Galaxy Ring 2 or Buy Now?
Don't wait for Galaxy Ring 2. There's no confirmed date, no confirmed specs, and the legal situation could push it to late 2027 or later. If you want a smart ring today, buy based on what's available now. The Oura Ring Gen 4 for best-in-class tracking, or the RingConn Gen 2 for the best value without a subscription.
For a detailed feature-by-feature comparison, visit our smart ring buying guide or use the compare tool to see specs side by side.
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FAQ
Galaxy Ring 2 & Smart Ring Patent War: Common Questions
Everything buyers need to know about the Samsung–Oura patent dispute and what to buy now.
Is the Samsung Galaxy Ring 2 canceled?
Not officially canceled, but effectively shelved. Samsung has no confirmed launch date, won't show it at Galaxy Unpacked 2026, and the ongoing Oura patent dispute at the ITC makes a 2026 release unlikely. Late 2026 or 2027 is the most optimistic timeline.
Can I still buy the Samsung Galaxy Ring in the US?
Yes — the original Galaxy Ring is still available at Amazon, Best Buy, and Samsung's website. However, if Oura wins the ITC case, future imports could be blocked. The ring itself would still work, but availability of replacements and accessories could be affected.
What is the best smart ring without a subscription in 2026?
The RingConn Gen 2 at $299 is the best subscription-free smart ring available today, offering heart rate, SpO2, sleep staging, and stress tracking. The Samsung Galaxy Ring at $399 is also subscription-free if you own a Galaxy phone. The upcoming RingConn Gen 3 with blood pressure tracking is expected this summer.
Why is Oura suing Samsung over the Galaxy Ring?
Oura filed a complaint with the U.S. International Trade Commission alleging that Samsung's Galaxy Ring infringes on multiple Oura patents related to the smart ring form factor, internal components, and manufacturing methods. Samsung's counter-suit was dismissed by a federal judge in April 2026.