Oura has scored a significant legal victory in its ongoing patent dispute with Ultrahuman and RingConn. The US International Trade Commission (ITC) ruled that both smart ring manufacturers infringed on Oura’s patented technology, leading to cease-and-desist orders that ban the two brands from importing and selling their smart rings in the United States. This ruling further solidifies Oura’s position in the competitive landscape of wearable technology.
Ultrahuman and RingConn smart rings are banned in the US
The cease-and-desist order is set to take effect 60 days after the decision is published—anticipated around August 21, pending submission to the Office of the US Trade Representative. This ruling follows an initial decision by the ITC in April, which indicated that Ultrahuman and RingConn had infringed upon Oura’s patents concerning the design and functionality of their smart wearables.
“This ruling establishes at the most rigorous levels of review that Oura’s patents are valid and enforceable, and reinforces not only the strength of Oura’s patents but our long-term IP strategy,” stated Oura in a blog post, emphasizing the importance of intellectual property in the wearable tech sector.
Next-gen Ultrahuman wearable is in development
In a statement to ZDNET, an Oura spokesperson claimed that Ultrahuman and RingConn copied “every element of every asserted claim of Oura’s patent.” In response to the ruling, Ultrahuman expressed its commitment to compliance while also accelerating the development of its next-generation wearable, which will feature a new architecture. Ultrahuman cautioned that the ruling could limit choices for consumers, leading to higher prices and slower innovation. They assured customers that the Ring Air would remain available for purchase until October 21st.
The same day the ITC ruling was issued, Ultrahuman announced plans to sue Oura in India, alleging that Oura had infringed on its patents concerning sensor technology and product construction. However, this lawsuit did not stand, as Ultrahuman failed to disclose the ITC’s findings in their initial filing. “The ITC Final Determination was released after we filed the DHC case, and the Court would like us to add more detail and clarify why it is not relevant to the case,” said an Ultrahuman representative. They plan to re-file with the necessary clarifications shortly.
The smart rings should be off the shelves soon
Ultrahuman CEO Mohit Kumar told ZDNET that the company is actively working on a new smart ring. Thanks to a new manufacturing facility in Texas, Ultrahuman aims to continue its operations in the US without relying on imports. The company also retains the option to dispute the patent ruling. Currently, Ultrahuman and RingConn smart rings are still available for purchase through select retailers, including Amazon, but they are expected to be pulled from the market soon.
For more detailed information about this ruling and its implications, visit Here.
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