Vital Signals opens pre-orders for Signal Ring, targeting hypertension with algorithmic monitoring
The $399 wearable, developed in collaboration with Masimo engineers, aims to address data drift issues in existing wearables while avoiding subscription fees and built-in AI.
Vital Signals has opened pre-orders for the Signal Ring, a wearable device designed to provide continuous, cuffless blood pressure monitoring without the need for regular calibration. Priced at $399, the device represents a strategic pivot by founder Tom Moss, who argues that the current wearables industry is overly focused on general wellness metrics rather than critical health monitoring tools. Shipping is scheduled to commence in October, following the purchase of a required sizing kit.
Moss, a veteran technology executive formerly of the Android team and co-founder of Nextbit, established Vital Signals in 2023 after experiencing a hypertensive crisis with a systolic reading of 250 mmHg. Frustrated by the lack of accurate, continuous monitoring devices available to consumers, he partnered with engineers from pulse sensor company Masimo. The trio spent three years developing proprietary algorithms to process health data, deliberately avoiding novel hardware components in favour of software precision.
The Signal Ring distinguishes itself from competitors such as the Samsung Galaxy Watch by eliminating the reliance on traditional cuff calibration. Moss contends that existing optical heart rate monitors often suffer from data drift between calibrations, rendering them less reliable for clinical purposes. Instead, the device passively scans blood pressure throughout the day, while also allowing users to take manual readings by following prompts to sit, relax, and breathe slowly.
Users can attach contextual data to these readings, such as exercise, diet, or caffeine intake, to track physiological responses against a personal baseline. The device features a three-day battery life and ships with a charging case capable of providing four full charges. Crucially, Vital Signals has committed to not charging a monthly subscription fee and will not include built-in artificial intelligence, allowing users to export data for external analysis if desired.
The launch occurs as the US Food and Drug Administration begins crafting broader exemptions for devices offering blood pressure readings from optical heart rate monitors. While the company is currently seeking regulatory clearance to eventually work with insurers, the Signal Ring is available for pre-order now. The device will be available in US sizes 5 through 13, with independent verification of its cuffless, calibration-free claims remaining to be seen in real-world usage.
