Smart Ring Aims to Track Partner Loyalty, Raising Questions About Emotional Surveillance

The concept of the RAW Ring, a smart ring designed to monitor physiological and emotional states to detect potential infidelity, has sparked significant controversy and debate within the tech community. Developed by Marina Anderson, CEO of RAW, a dating app that emphasizes real-time, unfiltered interaction to reduce catfishing and ghosting, the RAW Ring aims to extend this philosophy to committed relationships. The ring combines various sensors, including an optical sensor for heart rate and heart rate variability, a skin temperature sensor, and a MEMs microphone for voice tone analysis. It employs dual-level AI, with real-time processing on the device and deeper analysis in the cloud, to interpret data and provide insights. Anderson envisions the RAW Ring as a tool to deepen emotional connections and build trust, highlighting that nearly 50 percent of marriages end in divorce. She suggests that the ring, rooted in the historical symbolism of trust, can help couples explore and understand each other's feelings more deeply. However, the marketing and proposed features of the ring have led many to view it as a form of emotional surveillance. One of the primary concerns is the potential for misuse. Critics argue that the ring could be used to create unhealthy dependencies, invade privacy, and misinterpret non-sexual emotional responses. For instance, the ring might mistake excitement over a job promotion for sexual desire, leading to unwarranted suspicion and tension. Moreover, individuals who prefer to process emotions privately before discussing them with their partner might find the constant monitoring intrusive and stressful. Anderson addresses these concerns by stating that the ring is not intended for cheaters, as they would likely avoid wearing it due to its visibility. Instead, she positions it as a commitment tool for serious, trusting relationships, emphasizing that users will have control over which metrics are shared with their partner. The device is designed with flexibility, allowing for quick adjustments in settings based on evolving personal boundaries and relationship issues. RAW is conducting focus group research with couples to gauge comfort levels and tailor the ring's features. This includes individuals with diverse relationship experiences, including those who have been divorced or endured toxic relationships. While the company has not yet consulted domestic violence advocacy groups, Anderson indicates that this is a possibility. Despite the ambitious design, the RAW Ring faces significant challenges. The ability of current AI technologies to accurately distinguish between different emotional and physical states is still limited. Smart rings like the Oura Ring and wearables like Amazon Halo have shown mixed results in similar areas. The RAW Ring’s success relies heavily on the accuracy and reliability of its AI interpretations, as well as the implementation of robust privacy controls. Moreover, the ethical implications of such a device cannot be ignored. Tech experts and advocates warn that emotional surveillance, regardless of intent, can lead to abusive behavior and the erosion of trust. The example of AirTags, which were not designed for stalking but have been misused, underscores the importance of proactively addressing potential misuse. As of now, RAW Ring remains a concept. The company plans to develop a prototype by September and aims for a full launch by early 2026. However, much could change in the development process, and the project is not guaranteed to come to fruition. Even if the RAW Ring does not materialize, the idea itself raises critical questions about the role of technology in intimate relationships and the risks associated with emotional monitoring. Industry insiders and relationship experts generally agree that while the RAW Ring is technologically feasible, its application in detecting fidelity is fraught with ethical and practical dangers. They emphasize the importance of maintaining healthy boundaries and the natural evolution of trust in relationships, cautioning against reliance on technology to solve interpersonal issues. Some suggest that focusing on communication and mutual respect would be more effective and less risky. RAW, a relatively new company, has already gained attention for its bold and unconventional approach to dating technology. The development of the RAW Ring reflects both the innovative potential and the ethical challenges of integrating smart technology into personal and emotional domains. Whether such a device ultimately proves beneficial or harmful will depend on careful consideration and execution of its intended goals, alongside a robust framework to prevent misuse and protect user autonomy.