iRing Is ‘First Motion Controller For Your Music Apps’

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According to Topeka Capital Markets analyst Brian White earlier this year, Apple’s busy working on an “iRing

According to Topeka Capital Markets analyst Brian White earlier this year, Apple’s busy working on an “iRing" finger ring we’ll use to control our Apple devices with. The suggestion was so preposterous that even the usually poker-faced Tim Cook cracked a joke about it.

The reality is that much of the “digital hub” functionality that an iRing would have brought will likely be carried out by the iWatch when it finally surfaces. For those who really wanted this rumor to be true, however, never fear: several companies have created their own third-party iRings to bring this rumor to life.


Remember those Topeka Capital Markets reports from last year about how, by this time, we’d all be using finger rings to control our newly launched Apple televisions?

While those predictions may not have come to fruition just yet, music technology company IK Multimedia is launching an iRing of its own that will allow people to perform specific tasks on their iOS devices using gestures.

The double-sided ring communicates with an iOS device’s camera, while the user moves their hand up and down, left and right, or twists it around to control actions.

Since IK Multimedia is a music tech company, it is no surprise that the applications so far revolve around music apps. For instance, the accessory supports GrooveMaker and VocaLive, and is being predominantly positioned as a way for professional DJs and music makers to manage their music and sound effects without having to constantly touch their iPhones or iPad.

That’s not all that IK Multimedia is planning, however. A note on the manufacturer’s website describes an SDK and free licensing program available to developers who wish to use the motion-control technology for games, health and fitness, utility and other non-musical applications.

The iRing is slated to launch Q1 this year at a price of $25. Consumers can choose from white, silver and green paint finishes. Two apps that work with the iRing (iRing FX/Controller and iRing Music Maker) will be available as free downloads from the App Store.

Source: IK Multimedia

Via: CNet

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