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Seoul-based VTouch Inc. has announced the world’s first-of-its-kind smart wearable ring, the WIZPR Ring. VTouch is among the world’s leading AI/deep learning companies and has showcased the ring at the recently held CES 2024, where it bagged the Innovation Award. The all-new WIZPR Ring comes with advanced AI capabilities to provide users with the unique ability to whisper commands discreetly.
“AI-based conversational computing is expected to be the next big thing that goes beyond the limitations of ‘graphical user interfaces’ such as PCs and smartphones. With WIZPR RING, we aim to realise a conversational computing environment where you can interact with AI by talking to it with your voice anytime, anywhere, without having to look at a screen,” said SJ Kim, Founder & Co-CEO of VTouch.
The device effortlessly switches between various AI assistants using a button press or with the mention of a scenario-specific aid. Users can activate tailored interactions through a triple-press button or set a greeting using personal data. For discrete interactions, users can whisper commands. The device can also be connected using Bluetooth for quick and efficient conversation of spoken words to texts.
The WIZPR Ring is priced at $199 (about Rs 16,559) and is currently available for pre-order through a crowdfunding campaign. As an early bird supporter, the unit can be obtained at $139 (about Rs 11,566).
The makers claim that the ring offers seamless voice conversations through the ring and the user’s earphones. It is activated using a built-in proximity sensor and microphone and this eliminates the need to activate it via pressing buttons. The device unlocks almost instantly when brought close to the mouth, allowing immediate voice input without wake words, terminating recognition when away.
It comes with high-accuracy, noise-resistant proximity recognition and ensures privacy by isolating the user’s voice from the surroundings. It essentially picks up even the softest of whispers, allowing for a secure space for conversation. Besides, it also doubles up as a versatile digital assistant and can be paired with its smartphone app integrating a variety of AI tools and assistants such as ChatGPT, Gemini, and more. The ring also grants control over smart home devices, listens to incoming texts, and several other services. This virtually eliminates the need to check the smartphone each time.
The WIZPR Ring allows users to engage in natural voice with AI tools and virtual assistants. It has support for English, Spanish, French, Korean, German, and Japanese offering users a versatile and inclusive experience. This makes it easy for users to speak and get responses in their preferred language.
Moreover, users can start contextual conversations with AI assistants with the ‘What’s up Chat’ feature which can also access personalised information such as events, messages, emails, location, weather, etc. It also serves as a centralised hub for IoT devices with seamless integration and control over smart home appliances. Users can also send and receive messages through voice commands. It also has an emergency SOS system for emergencies. The feature can be activated with just a few taps on the ring. The taps will send ambient sound and the user’s location to present emergency contacts.
The WIZPR Ring is made using high-quality materials, including titanium and epoxy resin, ensuring durability and a sleek design. It features a battery that, when fully charged, can last up to 66 hours with connectivity and 10 hours with continuous voice input, according to the company. With the inclusion of a case, the battery life extends remarkably, offering 20 days of connectivity and 3 days of continuous voice usage.
Available in sizes ranging from 6 to 13, it caters to a wide audience. The product comes in two classic colours: black and silver, and weighs just 4 grams. It includes a USB-C port for convenient charging and is water-resistant, boasting an IPX4 rating, making it suitable for everyday use regardless of the weather conditions. An LED indicator provides at-a-glance information on the device’s status. The device comes with a 1-year warranty, ensuring customer satisfaction and product reliability.
