Pebble’s comeback story took an unexpected turn. After launching two new smartwatches earlier this year, the company today announced a new wearable that challenges what a smart ring should be. Unlike the Samsung Galaxy Ring or Oura smart rings, the Pebble Index 01 is not designed for health and fitness tracking. Instead, its sole purpose is to help users capture ideas or remember things.
The Index 01 is essentially a device that allows you to create voice notes with ease. It’s a stainless steel ring with a side button and built-in microphone that allows users to quickly record ideas, set reminders, start a timer, or create a calendar event. It has built-in storage for storing recordings that automatically sync to Pebble’s companion app when connected to a phone.
Within the app, the recording is transcribed locally and automatically categorized as a reminder, timer or simple note. None of this requires a monthly subscription, although Pebble does offer an optional cloud service that allows for online backups and improved speech-to-text accuracy.
Pebble says the ring’s button can also be customized within the companion app for additional actions, such as controlling music playback, taking a photo, or triggering smart home commands, allowing users to do more when needed. By double-pressing and holding, you can even get answers to simple questions. However, this feature requires an active internet connection and is not available by default.
The Index 01 is designed to require as little maintenance as possible. Therefore, it does not have a rechargeable battery. Instead, it uses a long-lasting silver oxide battery (similar to those used in hearing aids) that can last up to 2 years with average use. Once the battery runs out, the ring can be returned to Pebble for recycling and users will have to purchase a replacement.
Although purchasing a new smart ring every two years may seem costly, the Index 01 is affordable with its introductory price of $75. If Pebble’s take on a smart ring piques your interest, you can pre-order the Index 01 now on the company’s website in polished silver, gold, or matte black. Shipping is scheduled to begin in March next year, after which Pebble will increase its price to $99.
