One ring to rule them all
While everyone is excited about the future battle of the smart watches, I have a different idea regarding the next thing in wearable devices. As a Microsoft fan, I used inspiration from their key products to create a simple, yet detailed concept, so without any other further delays, I present to you... (dramatic background drum rolls) Microsoft Surface Ring - the notification wearable ring.
The personal wearable device
Get all the notifications you need at the root of your fingers while enjoying the comfort of your daily routine without distractions or disturbance. The Surface ring is a true modern approach when it comes to merging technology with esthetics. Use it to stay connected with your apps or just wear with pride at that exclusive gala.
Built-in features
Unibody casing
The Surface ring is extremely light and durable due to the full unibody case made of both aluminium and titanium.
No ports, no cables, no "nothing"
Connect the ring to your phone using Bluetooth and NFC.
The right display
To keep it tight and secure, a layer of sapphire display was added. It support up to 16 colors and 10 levels of transparency.
Subtle comfort
The light-weight vibration feedback you receive, brings up at least a smile and a drop of curiosity on your face.
Complete list of current supported apps and features
Skype, Twitter, Facebook, Google+, LinkedIn, Path, Instagram, Foursquare, Youtube, Dribbble, Messages, Mail (Live, Yahoo, Gmail, other), Battery status, Screensaver, Weather, Alarm, Time, Missed Calls, WiFi, Find my phone
Inspired by the best good looking
Looking at the top Microsoft hardware in terms of both design and experience, the ring manages to surpass even the expectations of the most pretentious users.
More than beats the eye
Maximized viewing
You can view up to three notifications on each side of your ring. This means a total of 6 alerts for the busy people.
Keep control
You can control which features and apps to send notifications to your ring with our own Windows Phone app.
Powered by the Sun
Point the ring or exposed it to the Sun to recharge it fast. It’s that comfortable to use!
Built-in solar panels
The Microsoft Surface Ring comes with two built-in solar panels that recharge the battery to assure a 24 hour lifetime.
Glossy covered
Good design is a priority. That’s why the solar panels were hidden with glossy covers to keep the appearance fresh and consistent.
Define your style
Don’t like the Graphite model? The Icy model may suit you best. Especially with the bright theme colors and inner light (optional).
Software and Hardware combined
No more sunlight?
With the built-in NFC capabilities you can wirelessly recharge your ring using all compatible WindowsPhone wireless charging plates or pillows.
Sync with your WindowsPhone
The Surface Ring is compatible with all WindowsPhone devices (WP7, 7.5, 7.8 and 8). Simply turn it on and sync via Bluetooth. Check the connection password key on the back of the introduction manual from the packaching.
Customize your experience
With the ConfiguRing app, control which notifications and how many you want to have on the display. From data sync to vibration strength, you choose which features will make your ring into the best wearable experience.
Community based
What the users are saying:
As an Apple fan boy, I was eagerly waiting for the iWatch, but then I discovered the Surface Ring and Yes! Finally! The next best thing has arrived and this time it comes from the Microsoft team. Kudos!
Eddie Vlăgea, Developer
My favorite Microsoft hardware was the Arc Touch Mouse until I got my fingers on this... this impressive piece of hardware with even more impressive design. It trully is the one ring to sync them all.
Alecsandru Grigoriu, Designer
New section on Marketplace
Choose from a wide collection of dedicated apps (we call them Notifiers) to enhance even more your device. Check out the new Ring Notifiers section from the Windows8 Store and from the WindowsPhone Marketplace.
Join the band
Make the Surface Ring even better. Sign up for our special Notifiers Developer Club and develop apps for the ring - free of charge.
Conclusions
This is just a fictional concept I thought of one simple day. I considered it interesting enough to "materialize it" into a fine visual walkthrough. I respect all the companies illustrated in the infographic and it doesn't represent any official plans from their behalf and no harm is intended. To put it simple, I love design challenges.
What's next
The concept wasn't such a big success among fellow interneters, but I did manage to collect valuable feedback from friends, colleagues and acquaintances. I've started drawing with them and making paper prototypes. Hell. I even wear a metal ring for a month just to see if I can find new interactions and uses.
The fact is that this little project started to grow on me, so I've decided not to abandon it. Most important, I am working on its next version (organizing and structuring the new ideas/feedback) and my goal is to illustrate a more realistic approach, closer to nowadays trends and technological limitations. I am thinking of calling it the Lumia Surface Ring (homage to Microsoft acquiring Nokia's Device and Services Business), but we shall see.
PS: This article is an adaptation of my original posting on Dribbble.