Pebble’s comeback story simply took an sudden flip. After launching two new smartwatches earlier this yr, the corporate immediately introduced a brand new wearable that challenges what a wise ring is meant to be. In contrast to Samsung’s Galaxy Ring or smart rings from Oura, the Pebble Index 01 isn’t constructed for well being and health monitoring. As an alternative, its sole goal is to assist customers seize concepts or bear in mind issues.

The Index 01 is actually a tool designed to make voice notes easy. It’s a chrome steel ring with a aspect button and a built-in microphone that lets customers rapidly document concepts, set reminders, begin a timer, or create a calendar occasion. It options onboard reminiscence to save lots of recordings, which robotically sync with Pebble’s companion app when it’s related to a cellphone.

Contained in the app, the recording is transcribed domestically and robotically categorized as a reminder, timer, or a easy be aware. All of this requires no month-to-month subscription, though Pebble does provide an optionally available cloud service that permits on-line backups and improved speech-to-text accuracy.

Pebble says that the ring’s button will also be custom-made inside the companion app for extra actions, similar to controlling music playback, taking a photograph, or triggering sensible residence instructions, permitting customers to do extra in the event that they so select. A double-press and maintain gesture may even fetch solutions to easy queries, however this performance requires an energetic web connection and is unavailable by default.

The Index 01 is designed to be as low-maintenance as doable. As such, it doesn’t have a chargeable battery. As an alternative, it makes use of a long-lasting silver oxide battery (much like these utilized in listening to aids), which may last as long as 2 years with common use. As soon as the battery runs out, the ring could be despatched again to Pebble for recycling, and customers should buy a alternative.

Whereas buying a brand new sensible ring each two years might sound expensive, the Index 01’s introductory value of $75 retains it accessible. If Pebble’s tackle a wise ring piques your curiosity, now you can pre-order the Index 01 from the corporate’s web site in polished silver, gold, or matte black. Shipments are anticipated to start in March subsequent yr, after which Pebble will improve its value to $99.