Oura Ring Users Report Shortened Battery Life, Company Responds
Customers using the Oura Ring 4 are experiencing significant issues with battery life, with many reporting that their devices are failing to hold a charge. This feedback comes approximately one year after the smart ring’s launch in October 2022, where its advertised battery life of up to eight days was a key selling point.
Users on the Reddit forum r/ouraring have voiced concerns about the performance of their smart rings. Some report that their devices only last a few days before needing a recharge, while others claim their batteries are completely depleted and unable to be revived. One user noted, “I went from probably a five-day charge cycle to seemingly every other day.” Another shared a similar experience, stating, “I’ve noticed the smart ring averages around two to three days before needing to be recharged.”
Frequent notifications regarding battery status have also become a topic of discussion among Oura users. Recent updates to the app have introduced alerts that inform users when their ring’s battery is running low. Reports indicate that users often receive notifications when their battery percentage drops to around 50%, prompting them to recharge. One user expressed frustration, saying, “The thing will literally be at like 20% and send me a ‘critically low battery’ notification,” even as they continue to use the device for another full day.
Oura’s response to the battery life complaints has been proactive. In an email to ZDNET, an Oura spokesperson explained that the rings utilize lithium-ion batteries, which can degrade chemically over time, affecting their maximum capacity. The spokesperson emphasized that performance can vary based on the ring’s age, usage patterns, feature settings, and charging habits. “Most members continue to experience between 5-8 days of battery life, as expected,” they added. The company encourages users to reach out to customer support for assistance with battery issues, offering troubleshooting and replacements on a case-by-case basis.
In a review conducted shortly after the Oura Ring 4’s release, the initial claims of eight-day battery life did not align with everyday use. The reviewer noted achieving around four to five days of battery life initially. The size of the ring, such as a size 6, may also impact battery longevity, as smaller rings typically have lesser battery capacity compared to larger sizes.
Oura has demonstrated a commitment to customer service amid these concerns. Users have reported quick responses from the company, with some receiving free replacements for their malfunctioning devices. For example, ZDNET contributor Aly Windsor contacted Oura about her battery issues, and customer support promptly approved her replacement request. Windsor noted that the process took “less than five minutes.”
The company has even assigned a member of its social care team to monitor discussions on Reddit, assisting users in navigating customer support and addressing their concerns effectively. This engagement suggests Oura’s dedication to maintaining customer satisfaction, despite the emerging battery life challenges.
As the conversation around battery performance continues to dominate discussions among Oura Ring users, it remains clear that the company is actively working to resolve these issues while ensuring users are supported throughout the process.
