Apple Ring rumors - what do we know so far?

While Apple has a history of dabbling in smart ring patents, nothing substantial has come of these ventures as of yet. Could this be the year that we see that change? Well, a report from the Korean news site The ET News has an unnamed industry insider claiming this could be the case. After detailing some rumors about the Galaxy Ring, this insider quotes that "pre-development for commercialization appears to be imminent", and that Apple is apparently considering a launch date for its new wearable. Of course, this report doesn't have much of a leg to stand on in terms of credibility, but it has certainly got the tech community buzzing to discuss the possibility of an Apple Ring once again.

Aside from saying the launch of an Apple smart ring is "imminent", this new report doesn't explore any potential capabilities of such a device. However, a bit of cultivated guesswork based on what other popular smart rings offer and what might be expected from the Galaxy Ring can reveal some insight. The smart ring category is currently led by the Oura Ring, which monitors a range of health biometrics such as heart rate and sleep.

These features, including additions such as smart home control and wireless payments, are expected to be mirrored on the Galaxy Ring. Essentially, what we might see is something along the lines of the capabilities of an Apple Watch but in a much smaller form factor; however, even confirmation of an Apple hand wearable is still yet to be seen at this point in time.

Apple Ring release date speculation

At the time of writing, there isn't enough solid evidence to start speculating on the Apple Ring release date. The ET News report points towards an "imminent" time frame, perhaps suggesting a release in the next fiscal year. The Galaxy Ring is now rumored to be launched at a Galaxy Unpacked in July, so perhaps we'll see Apple's take on this wearable come at some point throughout 2025 after establishing if there's a viable market interested in investing in 'Apple Ring'.

Apple Ring price prediction

Similar to the Galaxy Ring, all we can currently pull on for an estimate on an Apple Ring price is how much current smart rings are selling for. The Oura Ring is priced at $299, and other smart rings like the Circular Pro 1 and the Ultrahuman Ring AIR range from $349 to $410. So, this would put a baseline of $300 as a sensible starting point. However, bearing in mind the $3500 price tag of the Apple Vision Pro, the company clearly has a loyal following that will splash huge amounts to try out its latest innovations, so who knows what the cost of an Apple Ring might end up being.

Is Apple coming out with a smart ring?

While the rumor mill might have been churning, nothing has been officially confirmed concerning the existence of an Apple smart ring, there are no other credible sources for backing up these rumors, shining a light of doubt on this 'imminent' launch. While it's true that there are numerous Apple patents of the smart ring variety, big tech companies patent all kinds of ambitious devices that don't end up making it to the market. It's also a bit of a reach to say that Samsung's announcement would directly influence Apple to push its wearables development forward, as each company operates on its own timescale.

Both the Galaxy Ring and the Oura Ring are accessible health and wellness devices that offer a different experience from what you get from a smartwatch such as the Samsung Galaxy Watch or Fitbit Versa. So, in this comparison article, we'll delve into the differences between the Samsung Galaxy Ring and the Oura Ring, exploring their features, price points, and overall performance to determine which smart ring reigns supreme.

Samsung Galaxy Ring vs Oura Ring differences

When it comes to smart rings, it's crucial to understand the key differences between the Galaxy Ring and the Oura Ring, but without official specs from Samsung, it's hard to tell what might significantly set these fitness-focused gadgets apart.

Realistically, it will probably come down to the unique Samsung-based features and functionality that we're unclear of at this moment in time that define the differences between the two. However, here's a rundown of some of the expected variations so far.

Samsung Galaxy Ring

The Samsung Galaxy Ring is the latest offering from Samsung Electronics, promising to revolutionize the smart ring market, making it even more mainstream. Based on the early patents reported by the Korean website Naver, with the Galaxy Ring, you can expect advanced health tracking capabilities from next-gen sensors, including a heart rate monitor, electrocardiogram (ECG) tracker, and blood pressure measurement. A huge benefit is that, unlike Oura, the data will be natively linked to the Samsung Health app, eliminating the need for third-party software. Essentially, the experience is likely to be similar to what's offered by the Galaxy Watch but in a much smaller form factor.

Interestingly, an even earlier patent exposes the possibility of the ring holding smart home integration. There's no guarantee of this, but the Galaxy Ring might even introduce groundbreaking tech features such as hand gestures, allowing users to control various smart devices like smartphones, TVs, or even living room lights.

To tie it all off, contactless payment functionality is rumored to be a part of the package, making it a convenient all-in-one device.

Oura Ring

On the other hand, the Oura Ring has established itself as a frontrunner in the smart ring industry. With its sleek and discreet design, the Oura Ring focuses primarily on health and fitness tracking. It offers comprehensive sleep tracking, providing users with accurate insights into their sleep quality and patterns. 

Moreover, the Oura Ring features period prediction for women, integrating natural cycle data for a more holistic approach to health monitoring. While it may lack some of the advanced capabilities found in the Samsung Galaxy Ring and its ecosystem, the Oura Ring remains a favorite among health-conscious individuals.

Samsung Galaxy Ring vs Oura Ring features

When considering which smart ring is better suited for your needs, it's essential to evaluate the features and functionalities offered by each device, or in this case, what we know so far.

Samsung Galaxy Ring features

The Samsung Galaxy Ring is anticipated to pack a plethora of detailed health metrics, making it a versatile and powerful device for your fitness and well-being. In addition to its health tracking abilities, including heart rate and blood pressure measurement, there are rumors based on early patent filings that the Samsung Galaxy Ring could even potentially introduce hand gesture control. This would take the functionality of the Galaxy Ring a step further, becoming even more like the Galaxy Watch in terms of functionality.

Furthermore, the metrics provided by the Ring may be compiled to create a Vitality Score similar to the Readiness Score provided by your Oura Ring, which assesses your general well-being and health capacity for the oncoming day. Leveraging the new AI-powered features found across the Samsung Health app, the Galaxy Ring might provide new and more detailed insights into your daily health.

Oura Ring features

While the Oura Ring may not offer the same level of device control as the Samsung Galaxy Ring, it excels in health and fitness tracking. The Oura Ring provides comprehensive sleep insights, monitoring key metrics like sleep stages, sleep efficiency, and restlessness. It also incorporates period prediction for women, allowing for a more personalized approach to health monitoring. For those primarily focused on wellness and sleep optimization, the Oura Ring delivers a seamless and user-friendly experience. However, rather than being threatened by the competition presented by Samsung, Oura might see this reveal as an endorsement of the smart ring category, and as motivation to up its own innovation through firmware updates.

Samsung Galaxy Ring vs Oura Ring price

As of now, Samsung has not officially announced the price or release date for the Samsung Galaxy Ring. However, based on market speculation and considering the current pricing of smart rings, it could be anticipated that the Samsung Galaxy Ring will be priced at around $300. It is worth noting though - the refined hardware required for making a smart ring doesn't come cheap, so it shouldn't come as too much of a surprise if it ends up being more expensive. On the other hand, the starting price for the Oura Ring is $299, making it a competitive option in the smart ring market.

Samsung Galaxy Ring vs Oura Ring – which one is better?

In the battle between the Samsung Galaxy Ring and the Oura Ring, it ultimately comes down to personal preferences and priorities. If you're already invested in the Samsung ecosystem, the smooth integration of the Galaxy Ring into your daily life may boost your health and well-being in unexpected and useful ways. Without a full list of features, it's unclear what other advantages the Galaxy Ring will bring to the table - but there's no doubt that it'll be impressive.

Now, we've got no Samsung Galaxy Ring release date as of yet, but the glimpse we've been given could have been a strategic move from the company ahead of a launch later in 2024 or at the start of next year. However, if your focus is primarily on health and wellness tracking, including comprehensive sleep insights and period prediction, the Oura Ring is a strong contender.

How much will the Galaxy Ring cost? Price and availability

While official pricing details for the Samsung Galaxy Ring have not been announced, we can make some educated guesses based on the current market. Its primary competitor, the Oura Ring, is priced at $299, and other smart rings like the Circular Pro 1 and the Ultrahuman Ring AIR range from $349 to $410. Considering these figures, we hope that the Galaxy Ring won't exceed a price point of $300. Unfortunately, you do have to take into account that the advanced tech you need to transform a tiny piece of metal into a viable fitness tracker doesn't come cheap, so perhaps we'll even see its price tag double or triple.

As for availability, Samsung's trademarking of the name "Galaxy Ring" in February 2023, along with other related names, indicates their commitment to bringing this wearable device to the market. However, it's important to note that release dates can be subject to change, and it's advisable to stay tuned for official announcements from Samsung.

Galaxy Ring release date speculation

Given that essentially all Samsung has given us so far is a graphic of the ring and confirmed its existence, it's near impossible to pin down an expected release date for the Galaxy Ring as of yet. However, there does seem to be a history of patents for a Samsung smart ring device, with one of the first dating right back to 2015, so it's clear that the Ring has been a long time in the making. In this case, perhaps the strategic unveiling of the smart ring by Samsung gives us enough ground to expect that the Galaxy Ring might hit the market later this year. The company did say that a major update to its Health app is coming "later this year", so it could be that the launch of the Ring will tie in with that nicely.

While we saw the device getting confirmed on the 17th of January at Galaxy Unpacked, we're still nowhere near the point of getting official specs or a purchase date. On the plus side, speculations are starting to build up surrounding a possible release date window. A report from ET News (via Android Authority) suggests that the Galaxy Ring might be on schedule to launch at the next Unpacked Event now rumored to be in the second half of July, presumably alongside the Z Flip 6 and Z Fold 6. While this is unconfirmed, it does seem possible that we could be looking at a potential launch in either the second half of 2024 or the first quarter of 2025.

Galaxy Ring: design and features

The Samsung Galaxy Ring is expected to be a sleek and stylish ring, available in sizes up to 13, and according to analyst Avi Greengart, three different finishes too. While similar devices on the market typically include basic features like a heart rate monitor, the Galaxy Ring might offer more advanced functionalities such as blood pressure monitoring and aFib detection. However, obtaining FDA approval for these sensors can be a lengthy process, potentially leading to a delayed release. It's possible that the device will initially launch with limited features, and gradually introduce advanced tracking capabilities as regulatory requirements are met.

In addition to heart rate monitoring, the Galaxy Ring might also track sleep patterns, blood oxygen levels, and body composition, similar to the Galaxy Watch 6. Although not confirmed, these features would further enhance its appeal as a comprehensive health and fitness device that has a convenient and smaller form factor than a smartwatch. Without a doubt, if the Galaxy Ring does well, we'll likely see a trend of the smart ring wearable being made by other major competitors, such as Apple and Google.

What does the Samsung Galaxy Ring do?

As mentioned previously, it's unclear exactly what the Galaxy Ring will do as of yet, but there's room for some guesswork. Generally speaking, Samsung's approach to health tracking focuses on sleep, stress, activity, and nutrition, so it's likely the Galaxy Ring will get features related to monitoring these aspects of your bodily health. These might include a heart rate and ECG monitor, a blood pressure measurer, as well as functionalities for both fitness and sleep tracking. Furthermore, the Ring could end up getting an even broader range of useful features such as the ability to support wireless payments or even control other smart home devices, increasing its functionality.

What we'd like to see

While smart rings are still a fairly new category, there are certain features that we would hope to see in this new wearable, but really we can only make guesses on the Galaxy Ring's health features so far. If we want to see the smart ring move away from a standalone accessory to a useful wellness device that's a complimenting addition to other gadgets such as your smartphone, here's what it might include:

Activity tracking: The ability to track daily activities such as walking, running, and other exercises, along with heart rate measurements.

Sleep tracking: A standard feature in most smart rings, sleep tracking would provide valuable insights into sleep quality and patterns.

Temperature tracking: Monitoring body temperature could help users detect signs of illness and be particularly useful for women tracking their menstrual cycles and pregnancy.

Media control: The convenience of controlling music tracks, volume, and accepting/rejecting calls directly from the Galaxy Ring, eliminating the need to interact with a smartphone or wireless earbuds.

Wireless charging: Following the example of the Oura Ring, the Samsung Galaxy Ring should offer wireless charging capabilities. It would be an added bonus if it could be charged by placing it on the back of your Galaxy S24 Ultra.

Final thoughts on the Galaxy Ring

Smart rings are gaining traction, and Samsung's entry into the market presents an exciting opportunity for the company to establish itself as a leader in wearables beyond traditional smartwatches. The Galaxy Ring's compact form factor and focus on health and fitness could attract consumers who prefer a more discreet wearable device. This move could also be part of Samsung's broader strategy to expand its online health and fitness offerings, similar to what Apple and Fitbit have done.

It's important to note that product rumors surrounding Samsung can often be abundant, and it's obviously advisable to be cautious and wait for more official announcements. As we eagerly anticipate the debut of the Samsung Galaxy Ring, it's clear that this wearable device has the potential to significantly impact the market. A Samsung smart ring would eliminate the need for a third-party app, giving you native access to Samsung Health as well as providing it with more extensive and detailed data. So, stay tuned for more updates as Samsung continues to shape the future of wearables.

Why you should consider this TEAMGROUP T-Force 4TB SSD deal

Now, let's dive into the heart of one of the best NVMe SSDs and explore why we believe this is the perfect time to enhance your gaming setup: 

What we think of this gaming SSD deal

The TEAMGROUP T-Force 4TB Gaming Internal SSD is a game-changer for gamers who demand top-tier storage performance.  Its incredible speed, efficient heat dissipation, and console compatibility make it the perfect choice for gaming enthusiasts looking to level up their gaming setup.

Whether you're expanding your game library, capturing gameplay footage, or seeking quicker load times, this deal presents the ideal opportunity to invest in a premium gaming SSD

Our best SSD deals at Amazon

Both the Peloton and Nordictrack are exercise bikes that come with touchscreen displays, speakers, as well as magnetic resistance systems to simulate real bike training.

They both offer their own live or on-demand classes to suit different people, both on and off the bike.

As they are similarly priced you may wish to know which is best suited to you and which features make each bike distinct. Read on to learn more.

What do they both offer?

The general idea with these bikes is that they can offer you a spinning class, as well as other exercise classes you can do at home while still virtually attending these classes with others online - this has become very popular in recent years.

With your purchase with either Peloton or Nordictrack, you get the bike itself as well as paying for a subscription. The initial cost for the bike is more expensive with Nordictrack than with Peloton.

Both offer the bike itself, with magnetic resistance wheels, cycling pedals, Bluetooth connectivity, a touchscreen display, as well as various controls for resistance as well as volume. Both are also equipped with speakers.

Peloton vs Nordictrack: Design and build

Interestingly, there are some physical differences in the bikes which are relatively minute but may suit certain people.

For instance, a taller or larger person looking to exercise could appreciate that the Nordictrack has a slightly larger bike frame as well as a maximum weight than the Peloton. This could be an important factor in some purchases.

Although both bikes offer almost exactly the same touchscreen display and size, Nordictrack has a rotating screen for non-bike classes.

But the Peloton Plus, a much more expensive upgrade on both bikes, offers a slightly larger touchscreen that rotates.

A small point of comparison is that the Peloton’s resistance control is controlled via a physical knob you turn, on the Peloton Plus this can be virtually controlled by the instructor.

On the Nordictrack you can easily change this through digital buttons on the handlebar.

Peloton vs Nordictrack: Classes on offer

A big point of comparison for many customers is what classes they offer, content is a huge factor.

Both subscriptions offer more than simply spinning classes, they offer many other workouts from walking to yoga to warm-downs to strength training and conditioning.

Both also offer live leaderboards, metrics based on your performance in class, as well as live and on-demand content. You can test out both membership platforms for free via their respective 30-day free trial.

You can’t swivel the Peloton bike screen around to do other classes non-bike related, although the Peloton app is easily accessible on basically any smart device.

The Nordictrack can swivel for these classes, allowing circuits to be created easily. Nordictrack's interactive fitness classes are delivered using its dedicated iFit platform. They offer a variety of workouts, high-energy studio classes, and personal trainers directly on your machine.

Nordictrack also has a really fun and creative map feature where you can [plan your own routes as well as get real Google Maps imagery – Peloton has the hype, but Nordictrack has cool features too.

Peloton vs Nordictrack: Price

This feels necessary to mention. The Nordictrack has a larger initial cost for the bike, while with Peloton this initial investment is less.

But importantly, Nordictrack gives you a free month of subscription for the first month, Peloton does not, so you end up spending more with Peloton.

Our verdict

Both are great and very similar. Nordictrack has more versatility though, with their rotating screen you can chain together circuits for a serious gym experience.

With the basic Peloton package, it can be harder to create a circuit, having to change screens often.

We feel the basic package Nordictrack offers is better than Peloton’s, but Peloton certainly has a lot of hype so if you want the same experience as your friends choose this. Overall, Nordictrack bikes seem better value. But, at the end of the day whichever bike you choose comes down to personal preference.

If you're looking for more fitness articles, then head over to our best Peloton alternatives buying guide. As well as, our best workout earbuds piece.

The answer depends on your training needs and budget. A smart trainer is a tool which you attach to your bike, turning it into a stationary bike you can use indoors. This means you can keep up a cycling regime, even in poor weather. Furthermore, unlike a regular trainer, smart trainers can connect to the internet. This means they have access to a range of 'smart' features, including virtual training apps like Zwift and Rouvy.

Compared to regular indoor trainers, smart trainers tend to have a greater range of resistance. This is useful for more intense training regimes. With ERG mode, your resistance will be set for you depending on your goals. You'll have to stick to your goals - no slacking off!

You should consider a smart trainer if you are a dedicated cyclist who wants to more monitor their stats more closely, or carry on training to a high standard even in poor weather conditions. They're a great way to train smarter AND harder.

Is a smart trainer right for me?

Smart trainers are a good idea for people who want to get more out of their indoor cycling experience. If you're a keen cyclist, especially if you have a desire to increase the intensity of your training regime, a smart trainer is a fantastic investment.

There are plenty of great options available. We love the Saris H3, available at Best Buy. It's an extremely solid option which promises great stability and some of the best sprinting capabilities around.

Do you need a smart trainer?

Smart trainers are perfect for those who want an interactive virtual riding experience that connects to useful fitness apps. Anyone preparing for a race or simply trying to improve their cycling performance may also benefit from the stats supplied by a smart trainer too.

Are smart trainers noisy?

The noise levels of smart trainers can vary depending on the model. Typically, smart trainers are pretty quiet. Some users claim that some of these machines make a very high-pitched white noise sound that goes way above human hearing.

PC Guide Expert Opinion

Smart trainers are an excellent option for hardcore cyclists who want to maintain a solid training regime even when the weather isn't right for cycling outdoors. They provide a way to track your progress in great detail.

Smart trainers also let you keep up to date with the latest cycling virtual platforms. You'll be able to race your friends on Zwift, TrainerRoad and Rouvy.

If this sounds like something you'd be interested in, why not take a look at some of the great smart trainers available at the moment?

In 2020, for obvious reasons, Peloton became really popular. They took advantage of this situation by releasing the Peloton Bike Plus, which many people were happy to pay for at the time.

As circumstances change, many wish to know if Peloton Bike Plus is worth their money now or if the normal subscription could be enough for their home workouts.

We’ve taken a look at both so you don’t have to waste your time, read on to learn our verdict.

What Does The Peloton Bike Offer?

The original peloton bike offers you the chance to join both live and on-demand classes, many are on the bike but there are also off the bike exercises also.

After each class you get metrics on your performance as well as how you can improve, and also access to a real leaderboard filled out by real people to compare your metrics and use competition to motivate.

In terms of a standing exercise bike, this is definitely the high end of that market.

What Does The Peloton Bike Plus Offer?

The Peloton Bike Plus is for those who love their Peloton Bike and use it to regularly workout. It has all the bells and whistles a Peloton stan would want.

One of the main features a Peloton fan will appreciate is the ‘Auto Follow’ option.

No, this won’t pedal for you, the idea is that your trainer can virtually adjust the resistance knobs on your bike, meaning you can focus on pedaling while also getting an interactive experience.

Beyond this, the touchscreen is a little larger and is also rotatable allowing you to follow non-bike classes and easily turn them into a circuit with your bike.

Expect extra, more in depth, metrics for your performance as well as being compatible with your smartwatch to integrate heart monitors and other fancy metrics.

These are the most notable things the Plus offers.

Features

This ‘Auto Follow’ feature is a big addition to the plus, but you also interestingly get a better sound system with a 2.2 channel front facing stereo system as well as 2.2 rear woofers. Which can really help you get into those workout songs while you pedal.

The Peloton Plus also features an extra 2GB of RAM on the system, as well as a USB-C charging port for your phone while you ride.

Display

The display is one of the more noticeable things that changes, and also may be desirable to those who love Pelton’s style of workouts, especially those off the bike.

The Peloton Plus has a screen which is around 2 inches wider, but the most notable feature is the fact it is rotable.

This means that you can rotate the screen and engage in a circuit with the other non-bike activities that Peloton offers, a potential game changer.

Our Verdict

For the increase in the price, you really need to be a Peloton fan in order to get the most out of it.

The features on the Peloton Plus enable the fans of Peloton to complete circuits with ease, moving on and off the bike and exercising other parts of their body and mind.

This can be totally worth it if you really enjoy the Peloton style workouts and could totally replace a gym routine if you wanted it to.

Ultimately, the Peloton Plus is for those who benefit most from the style of workout that Peloton uses.

The Fitbit Sense health watch has an electrocardiogram (ECG), stress detection, and a skin temperature sensor. While the Versa 3 lacks all of these features, it does have SpO2 monitoring, GPS tracking, and all of the normal Fitbit tracking. In essence, it is the Sense without the added frills. 

If you are stuck choosing between these two options then you have come to the right place. Here are the biggest differences and most important features of both the Fitbit Sense and Versa 3. 

Health Tracking 

While the design of these two watches is practically identical, it is in this area that substantial differences can be seen. Because the Sense is Fitbit's health watch, it will track and monitor more than steps and sleep.

Both gadgets use Fitbit's latest PurePulse 2.0 optical heart rate sensor and a new temperature sensor.

According to Fitbit, PurePulse 2.0 provides more accurate heart rate tracking than previous Fitbit devices.

Additionally, both devices can detect your body temperature, though this information is only visible to Premium Members.

Both devices have a SpO2 sensor, which displays the SpO2 range during the night alongside sleep data. Fitbit Premium users may now track blood oxygen trends as well.

Women's cycle tracking is integrated, and critical insights are accessible via both the watch and the accompanying phone app.

As part of the Fitbit OS 5.2 upgrade, which will come in June 2021, the Versa 3 now receives high/low heart rate notifications – and you can check nightly SpO2 measurements without using the specialized SpO2 watch face.

The Sense - Unique Features

The Sense accomplishes the same thing as the Versa 3 but includes an ECG app that lets users acquire medical-grade heart rate readings to help in the diagnosis of conditions such as atrial fibrillation (afib).

The Sense makes use of the PPG sensor to generate high and low heart rate warnings if your heart rate rapidly increases or decreases while you are at rest.

Additionally, Sense now has a new EDA Scan software that is optimized for stress detection.

When you place your hand on the watch, it detects minute electrical changes in the sweat level on your skin to evaluate your body's response to stress.

Also, the Fitbit Sense will monitor for additional stress indicators and will calculate a Stress Score using several data points designed to assess physiological signals of stress.

This is linked to an emotional state questionnaire and contains mindfulness content, guided meditations, and breathing exercises to aid you in overcoming negative feelings.

In a nutshell, if you're searching for a watch with advanced health monitoring features and cutting-edge sensors, the Sense is the one for you!

Sports Tracking

Fitbit's two new smartwatches continue to track step, sleep, and heart rate 24 hours a day — and also include a variety of sports tracking features.

The good news is that both watches have an accelerometer capable of measuring indoor activities such as treadmill jogging and steps.

Fitbit's tracking capabilities are superior at tracking sleep, and both devices provide insights into sleep stages and a Sleep Score to help you better understand your overall sleep quality.

As previously indicated, both devices will use the SpO2 sensor to measure blood oxygen levels during sleep.

Both devices use Fitbit's newest PurePulse 2.0 heart rate sensor, which the firm claims improves the accuracy of the previous generation sensor.

This is used to continually monitor your heart rate, exercise in heart rate zones, and check your Active Zone Minutes to ensure your heart is pumping regularly.

Additionally, it enables users to view activity intensity maps, which highlight the most demanding areas of a running or cycling route.

The Versa 3's inbuilt GPS and GLONASS satellite technology enable outside monitoring, while swim tracking (which is still restricted to the pool) is available on both the Versa 3 and the Sense.

Additionally, an altimeter is included for measuring height, and the 20+ training modes include automatic activity identification for a range of activities.

These two smartwatches are inseparable when it comes to fitness and sports tracking.

SmartWatch Features 

When it comes to sports and fitness tracking, the Versa 3 and Sense provide a comparable experience when utilizing their smartwatch features.

These watches connect to Android and iPhone devices, allowing you to monitor your phone's notifications, as well as download faces for your watch and applications.

Pay with Fitbit Pay, and listen to music from your collection or supported services such as Deezer and Pandora.

Both watches have a digital assistant in the form of Alexa or Google Assistant - the latter of which is now only accessible in the United States, with a wider rollout scheduled for the end of the year.

Fitbit augments the Versa 2's microphone with a speaker. This adds the ability to handle phone calls from either watch, which Fitbit OS 5.1 enables.

This function is available only when your smartwatch is near you, as it relies on Bluetooth communication. Android users may also respond to text messages by voice. .

This microphone is also used by Fitbit's new smart assistant, Google Assistant, which joins Amazon's Alexa to provide users with a choice of two assistants to manage their requests and inquiries.

Summary - Which Should You Buy?

Almost everything about the Fitbit Sense and the Versa 3 is identical, except when it comes to the health features.

If you are most concerned about health tracking, then the Fitbit Sense is the watch for you. If you want a bit more of a simple product, then you will be fine with the Versa 3. 

We are now approaching the release of the next "Pro" model of the earbuds, which should have a lot of enhancements and new capabilities over the first-generation Galaxy Buds Pro.

What improvements, you may wonder? Here's a comprehensive article that contains all we know about the Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 Pro.

Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 Pro price and release date

We can predict their pricing by comparing the new earphones to the company's past models. The price for Samsung's most expensive earphones, the Galaxy Buds Pro, was $199. The Galaxy Buds 2 are priced at $149, though you may frequently find all Samsung earbud models on sale for less.

Samsung may keep the second-generation Galaxy Buds Pro at the exact pricing as the first-generation device. According to 9to5Google, there is a chance Samsung may increase the cost of the Buds Pro 2 to $230.

Likewise, the release date is predictable. The first-generation Galaxy Buds Pro arrived a little over 18 months ago, and the Galaxy Buds 2 have been available for almost a year. We guess the Galaxy Buds 2 Pro will go on the market later in August 2022, given that Samsung plans to have its Unpacked press event on August 10.

Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 Pro specifications

Design

With a slightly wider form and new color options, the Samsung Galaxy Buds Pro design appeared comparable to the original Galaxy Buds. The Samsung Galaxy Buds Live are roughly bean-shaped, whereas the Galaxy Buds 2 are smaller.

Samsung will probably make some design adjustments for the Galaxy Buds Pro 2; they might be smaller than the original Pro model but not nearly as compact as the Galaxy Buds 2.

According to a leak by (@_snoopytech_), the Galaxy Buds Pro 2 will be available in three colors: Zenith White, Zenith Bora Purple, and Zenith Graphite.

Battery

One of the most significant aspects of a wireless device is its battery life. Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 may last roughly five hours on a single charge, with its charging case adding another 15 hours.

Samsung rates the Galaxy Buds Pro battery life at five hours with ANC turned on, which averages to roughly 4 to 4.5 hours when high volume, streaming, and listening modes are considered. The case adds 18 hours of listening time with ANC.

We expect the new earphones to last significantly longer, making it easier to employ the active noise cancellation feature, which consumes most of the power.

Improved ANC

The first earphone with active noise cancellation was the Galaxy Buds Live. With Galaxy Buds 2, the feature improved significantly. Given that the Galaxy Buds 2 was released a year ago, we'd be surprised if the Galaxy Buds 2 Pro didn't improve on that front, especially given the anticipated higher price point.

Nonetheless, if Samsung intends to improve the ANC, it should also consider improved power management. If the Galaxy Buds 2 Pro doesn't get battery enhancements, it will last even less than its predecessors when the ANC is on.

Minor improvements

Support for 24-bit audio, a higher resolution standard than the regular 16-bit or lesser standards you get from streaming providers, is one potential new feature for the Buds Pro 2. This feature could appeal to audiophiles, but you would need an audio player that supports 24-bit music.

Samsung may improve its performance using a specially designed 2-way speaker system with a more robust woofer and tweeter. Additionally, it may use a higher SNR and better internal mic to enhance the ANC and Ambient Sound functions.

Other functions, such as touchpad controls and Bixby voice wake-up, might also be present.

Wrap up!

Even though the Galaxy Buds don't have the highest audio quality in their class, their price is their main selling point. A competition appears imminent as the releases of the Google Pixel Buds and the AirPods Pro 2 get closer.

However, the Samsung Galaxy Buds Pro 2 will be the better pair of earbuds if they live up to the reported updates and enhancements.

Make sure to check out this article if you're looking for the best workout earbuds.

At the time, it had cutting-edge technology, but now that Fitbit has put it into the more compact, cost-effective Fitbit Charge 5, the impending Sense 2 will need to provide something even more remarkable.

What do we currently know about the potential successor to Fitbit's flagship model? We review the most recent reports and rumors while outlining some of the Fitbit Sense 2 features we hope to see.

Fitbit Sense 2 release date and price

Given that the company's first flagship launched in September 2020, it is likely that Fitbit will also debut Fitbit Sense 2 in September 2022.

However, since Google owns the company and has already scheduled to debut Google Pixel Watch in October 2022, it seems improbable that it would want to release the two devices in the same month.

We anticipate the Sense 2 to have the exact premium positioning as the original Sense, which Fitbit markets as its top-tier smartwatch.

In light of this, we can expect that Fitbit will price the Sense 2 around $299 and most likely no higher than $399 since it will make it a worse value option than Apple Watch Series 7.

Sense 2 New features

Design

Early in August, 91Mobiles leaked allegedly accurate press renderings of the Fitbit Sense 2. These renders showed us the physical button as well as the ECG sensor.

A new watch face also displays four fitness indicators: a heart rate tracker, sleep score, and active zone minutes. While working out, having these indicators shown on the main screen will be quite handy because it will eliminate the necessity of opening each corresponding app one by one.

In addition, three strap colors are shown in the leaked photos: a dark gray, a warm white, and a much lighter gray, making them suitable for people of all ages, tastes, and fashion preferences.

Unfortunately, the newly leaked photos of the Sense 2's sensor panel do not provide a clear view. In these real-world images, the Sense 2 has a sensor array comparable to its predecessor but a less apparent stainless-steel frame.

The information from the 9to5Google breakdown suggests a 336 x 336 resolution display, the same resolution panel used in the original Sense and Versa 3.

In June, a now-deleted video from a business that produces device accessories showed customers how to install a screen protector on the Versa 4 or Sense 2.

The lack of differentiation between the two gadgets in the video raises the possibility that the first Sense may significantly impact the new one's design. So what we can gather from the leaked photos is that Google focuses on the features and functions of Sense 2 rather than on the device's aesthetics.

Specifications

The Fitbit Sense 2 is expected to maintain its "advanced" smartwatch lean in terms of specifications. We anticipate that the ECG, EDA, and skin temperature sensors from the original Sense will all be present in Sense 2.

Fitbit launched a public study in 2021 to see whether pulse data is a practical way to monitor blood pressure on the original Sense. However, the Fitbit Sense 2 doesn't seem to be getting blood pressure monitoring technology just yet.

While the Fitbit is not yet prepared to give the implementation, the Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 does have a blood pressure monitoring feature. Because of this, Fitbit Sense 2 couldn't win over certain users who consider this feature essential.

The changes that we need

The Versa 3 and original Sense both had Fitbit OS's refresh, which improved the user interface but left the OS itself jagged and unwieldy when scrolling through menus or opening apps.

We want Fitbit to fix the stutters in its wearable OS. This isn't a big deal, as Fitbit OS has several benefits over competing operating systems, such as simplicity and battery life.

Also, a redesign of the Fitbit app will be beneficial. It poorly explains how the EDA data collected affects your general health or why a certain reading is significant. We hope to see a redesign of the app, helping us to determine what's wrong with our bodies.

Will Fitbit Sense 2 be worth it?

Fitbit fitness monitoring capabilities are impressive if Sense 2 receives new features and sensor enhancements. There are several choices for activity monitoring, and the watch and Fitbit app work together to give you a set of statistics about your workout once it is over.

For those who love to exercise and pay attention to what their bodies are telling them, Sense 2 may be the most excellent option available. The extensive sensor detection capabilities will inform you if your body has an issue while engaging in your favorite pastime.

Many companies now attempt to mimic Peloton’s success in this market. Echelon is one that has become popular as it offers some pretty competitive pricing on their product in comparison to the others on the market.

In this guide, we will explore both Peloton and Echelon, what they offer, as well as our verdict on which is the best value for money. Keep reading to find out!

What Do They Both Offer?

Both Peloton and Echelon offer you the equipment to complete spinning classes, as well as other exercise classes you can complete at home. You buy into a subscription whereby you are granted access to lots of live classes you can attend virtually with other home exercisers.

There are also lots of on-demand classes as well as other virtual and live features like leaderboards, live routes, metrics based on performance and much more. The classes are really fun and practical and a great way to get exercise into your routine if they suit you.

Often you pay for the physical bike, and an additional purchase of the subscription necessary to attend the classes.

Design

Funnily, there isn’t too much separating the bikes in terms of design and build, bar one notable exception.

However, Peloton literally sued Echelon in 2019 for how similar their product was, inspiring a whole world of copycat products, and starting a sour legal dispute between the companies.

It’s undeniable that they are pretty similar in their design, they both have steel frames and magnetic resistance dials you physically control manually. The Peloton plus bike is a lot different to the opposition but is more expensive.

One point worth noting is that Peloton uses the ‘LOOK DELTA compatible’ cleats to fit their three-hole pedal, this does improve performance when spinning but can get in the way of circuits, something Peloton have been criticized for.

Meanwhile, Echelon has your standard pedals with a toe cage on one side and clips on the other, giving you more choice over your foot wear and opening up the routine for circuits.

Display

The display is worth noting on both. One of the draws of Peloton plus is that the screen rotates to use for other workouts off your bike.

Echelon provides a rotating screen, while a normal Peloton bike does not, this makes circuits so much easier.

Classes

Like Peloton’s many other competitors, Echelon offers its own streaming service which provides live and on demand classes as well as leaderboards. Both offer more than just spinning classes and include strength and conditioning, cardio, and much more.

It’s hard to compete with the production quality Peloton offers, their hype and celebrity endorsement has led them to get the best of the best when it comes to production: live DJs, celebrity guests, a huge range of choice, different music and much more.

Echelon tries to bridge this gap by offering classes Peloton doesn't, such as boxing and pilates.

Our Verdict

Both bikes offer similar things, Peloton carries with it a name and a hype that undeniably made their product great. Echelon is much cheaper, against Peloton’s legal wishes, Echelon have provided their new EX-15 model for about a third of the price that Peloton offers for their base model.

Nothing compares to the peloton experience, but if you want a simple and less expensive smart fitness bike Echelon isn’t the worst out there.

Both watches have GPS tracking capabilities of a kind, but the Versa 2 does not have heart rate monitoring. Both are solid choices for fitness enthusiasts who want a stylish watch that tracks their daily activities, but let's take a look and see if we can find the right model for you. 

The Design

Being iterations on the same model the Versa 2 and Versa 3 have the same basic design, although the Versa 3 has a few upgrades, including integrated GPS.

The Versa 3 also looks more modern overall and looks more like the Fitbit Sense than the Versa 2 when you really get up close and personal. Its lines are more curved for an aesthetic that the company claims was inspired by the human body. 

The Versa 2 and 3 both feature a polymer case and silicone band available in two sizes. You can also purchase different bands for both of these watches if you'd prefer a different color or feel. In terms of colorways, the Versa 2 comes in three variations while Versa 3 comes with five. The Versa 2's are as follows: 

The Versa 3's colorways are as follows: 

Health Features

The Versa 3 has everything that the Versa 2 has, with some upgrades to enhance your fitness journey. The main difference is that the 3 has its own GPS within the watch while the Versa 2 has to use your phone's GPS.

This means that while you have to take your phone with you to use the Versa 2's GPS, you can leave it at home when running, swimming, or cycling with the Versa 3.

A watch with its own GPS also has better accuracy than ones that use a phone GPS, so if you need the most accurate timings and miles traveled, the Versa 3 is the one for you. 

Both of these watches track your heart rate around the clock as well as every step you take.

They both have the same 20 workout modes, and will automatically start tracking a workout when they feel that you are exercising. 

You can monitor your sleep as well with both the Versa 2 and 3, and they'll monitor your breathing rate as well. The Versa 3, though, has a mode in which it can guide you through breathing sessions. 

Smartwatch Features 

Again, Versa 3 comes with everything that the Versa 2 does - Alexa compatibility, allows you to play Spotify, and app notifications. They both also support contactless payments. 

However, Versa 3 comes with a few more features such as allowing you to receive calls. You can also stream Deezer instead of only Spotify. 

Versa 2 isn't without its perks, though, some of which Versa 3 doesn't have. You can store up to 300 songs on your Versa 2 and it is compatible with Google Home, which the 3 is not. 

Summary

If you're looking for a smartwatch that can do everything from keeping tabs on your health to playing music, then the Versa 3 is definitely the best choice.

It has all the same features as the Versa 2 but with an upgraded GPS system and more features both in the health and smartwatch categories. 

However, the Versa 2 is less expensive and comes with a few beneficial features that the 3 lost in the upgrade. These include storing songs and compatibility with Google Home. 

Overall, we think that the Versa 3 is well worth the extra money thanks to all of the upgrades you can benefit from. However, which you choose will all depend on your personal preference and budget.

It can be really annoying having headphones wires flapping around when trying to concentrate on a good workout. Sometimes, speakers are drowned out by the noise of a Peloton device in full swing, which is why it’s nice to stick on a pair of headphones or earbuds and concentrate.

How to connect AirPods and Bluetooth Headphones to Peloton

Providing they’re charged and ready to go, users can pair up AirPods and other Bluetooth personal audio solutions to a Peloton device quite easily. Here are some quick steps to get them set up:

How to connect AirPods to Peloton

Tap Settings in the top right-hand corner of the Peloton screen followed by Bluetooth Audio. Grab your AirPods and hold the pairing button until they start to flash white, this will put them into pairing mode and make them discoverable by Pelotons Bluetooth. Once they appear on-screen, select then and tap ‘Connect’. Now that they have been paired, Peloton should recognize AirPods whenever the AirPods case is opened.

How to connect Bluetooth Headphones to Peloton

This is more or less the same steps as above. Go to settings, Bluetooth audio, and put your Bluetooth headphones into pairing mode. Please refer to your manufacturers’ instructions on how to do this. Once done, they should appear on the Peloton screen, select and enjoy. They should also be recognized by Peloton whenever they are turned on.

Thanks for choosing PC Guide for help on how to connect Airpods and Bluetooth Headphones to Peloton. For more helpful tips on iOS and fitness tech, make sure to bookmark and visit our iOS and Fitness hubs.

Also, check out these guides on how to connect AirPods to laptop devices and how to connect AirPods to Chromebook if you want to know more.