Two former Meta employees have entered the burgeoning smart ring market with Sandbar, a new brand focused on capturing thoughts and controlling music – a seemingly unique blend of functions in a space largely dominated by health tracking. The company’s first product, the Stream smart ring, is now available for preorder at $249 and slated to ship in summer 2026.
Differentiating from the Competition
The wearable market has exploded, with smart rings becoming increasingly popular. However, Sandbar isn’t competing directly with established players like the Oura Ring, which emphasizes health and fitness tracking, or Bee, the AI-powered wearable acquired by Amazon. Instead, Sandbar is carving out its own niche with two core features.
Key Features: Voice Recording and Gesture Control
The Stream smart ring’s primary functions are straightforward:
- Voice Recording & Transcription: It allows users to record and transcribe their thoughts on the go, providing a convenient way to capture ideas and notes.
- Music Control: It enables users to control their music with simple hand gestures, offering a hands-free alternative to traditional methods.
While phones and AI chatbots already offer note-taking and voice recording capabilities, and many headphones provide touch controls, Sandbar’s ring aims for a more seamless and discreet experience. The company’s website highlights the Stream as a “fast, private, & effortless way to capture thoughts in the moment.”
Subscription Model for Premium Features
The Stream ring connects to a companion app that organizes voice notes, allowing users to convert them into reminders, calendar events, or simple notes. However, Sandbar operates on a tiered subscription model.
- Free Tier: Offers unlimited notes and limited chat functionality.
- Pro Subscription: Priced at $10 per month, unlocks full access to the app’s organizational features.
Design and Durability
The Stream ring features a sleek, modern design:
- Outer Surface: Crafted from aluminum for a premium feel.
- Inner Surface: Made from resin for comfort.
- Touchpad: Constructed from glass, providing a responsive surface for gesture controls.
Sandbar claims the ring is “resistant to rain and handwashing,” indicating a focus on everyday usability and durability.
Founders and Availability
Sandbar was founded by Mina Fahmi and Kirak Hong, both experienced professionals previously employed at Meta. Preorders for the Stream smart ring are currently being accepted on the Sandbar website. The smart ring’s debut signals a new entrant into the smart ring market, focusing on a unique blend of thought capture and music control rather than solely on health tracking. The company’s ambition to provide a fast and effortless way to capture ideas on the go will be key to its success.
