Plans for Samsung's next-generation smart ring appear to be in flux. The tech giant, which was widely expected to unveil the Galaxy Ring 2 at its early 2026 Galaxy Unpacked event, is now reportedly reconsidering its launch timeline. The decision comes amid a confluence of challenges, including underwhelming market performance of the first-generation model and an intensifying legal battle with smart ring market leader Oura over patent infringement claims.
Development Hurdles Push Back the Timeline
According to a report from South Korea's DealSite, Samsung's Galaxy Ring 2 is unlikely to be ready for a debut at the company's flagship early-year event. While Samsung initiated research and development for the successor in June 2025, industry sources indicate the product is still deep in its development phase and will not meet the aggressive launch window. This suggests that technical or design refinements are taking longer than initially anticipated, pushing the potential reveal to later in 2026 or beyond.
Reported Development Status of Galaxy Ring 2
- R&D Start: June 2025
- Current Status (as of Dec 2025): Still in development phase; not ready for mass production.
- Originally Planned Launch: Early 2026 Galaxy Unpacked event.
- Current Outlook: Launch is delayed, with no confirmed new timeline.
A Boiling Legal Conflict with Oura
Compounding the development delay is a rapidly escalating patent dispute with Oura, the dominant player in the smart ring sector. The legal skirmish has evolved into a multi-front war. Samsung preemptively filed a lawsuit in a California federal court in May 2024, seeking a legal declaration that its Galaxy Ring did not infringe on Oura's patents. This case was dismissed because Oura had not yet made any claims against Samsung. The situation changed dramatically in November 2025 when Oura filed a patent infringement lawsuit targeting Samsung, Reebok, Zepp Health, and Nexxbase. In a swift countermove, Samsung filed its own lawsuit against Oura on December 1, 2025, in the US District Court for the Eastern District of Texas, alleging that Oura infringed Samsung's patents and seeking monetary damages. This legal uncertainty is a significant factor causing Samsung to pause and reassess its launch strategy for the Ring 2.
Key Legal Timeline: Samsung vs. Oura
- May 2024: Samsung files a preemptive "patent non-infringement confirmation" lawsuit against Oura in California. Dismissed.
- November 2025: Oura files a patent infringement lawsuit against Samsung, Reebok, Zepp Health, and Nexxbase.
- December 1, 2025: Samsung counter-sues Oura in the US District Court for the Eastern District of Texas, alleging patent infringement by Oura and seeking damages.
The Shadow of Muted First-Generation Sales
The legal woes are set against the backdrop of the original Galaxy Ring's commercial performance, which has reportedly failed to meet expectations. While exact sales figures are not disclosed, reports describe its performance as "sluggish" and "muted." This tepid market reception reduces the urgency for a rapid-fire sequel and gives Samsung reason to carefully evaluate the product's market fit, features, and pricing before committing to a next-generation release. Launching a successor amid weak demand for the first model and during a high-stakes legal battle could be seen as a risky proposition.
Strategic Implications for Samsung's Wearable Ambitions
The potential delay of the Galaxy Ring 2 represents a strategic crossroads for Samsung's wearable ecosystem. The smart ring is a key component in its health-tracking portfolio, intended to work seamlessly with Galaxy watches and phones. A postponement could cede more ground to Oura and other competitors in a niche but growing market. However, it also provides Samsung with an opportunity to refine its product, potentially incorporate new sensor technology or health algorithms, and await a clearer resolution to the patent litigation. The company's decision will signal whether it is doubling down on the ring form factor or taking a more cautious, wait-and-see approach.
What's Next for the Smart Ring Market?
The ongoing patent battle between Samsung and Oura has implications that extend beyond these two companies. It highlights the increasing competitiveness and litigious nature of the wearable tech space, especially concerning health monitoring intellectual property. Other manufacturers like Amazfit (Zepp Health) and newer entrants are also caught in this web. The outcome could shape licensing agreements, design freedoms, and the pace of innovation for all smart ring makers. For consumers eagerly awaiting a more advanced Galaxy Ring, patience will be required as Samsung navigates these complex development and legal challenges.