Eric Migicovsky, previously known for the Pebble smartwatch, has introduced the Index 01 smart ring. The device is positioned within the wearable technology segment with a specific focus on capturing brief voice notes. The retail price is $75 at launch, with an anticipated increase to $99 after the pre-order period.

The Index 01 is functionally limited to recording voice notes. It operates via a single button press, with the device remaining inactive unless deliberately engaged by the user. This design is intended to address privacy concerns associated with always-on recording devices. The approach aims to mitigate risks of unintentional or unauthorized audio capture.

Speech-to-text conversion and AI integration are managed through open-source models running locally on the user’s smartphone. All data generated by the device is stored on the user’s phone, and no information is transmitted to external servers or cloud platforms. There are no subscription fees associated with the Index 01. The initial purchase price represents the total cost to the user.

Physical attributes include a stainless steel construction, water resistance to a depth of one meter, and eight available ring sizes. The device is not intended for swimming or extended submersion. The Index 01 does not monitor biometric data such as heart rate or sleep patterns, distinguishing it from other consumer wearables primarily marketed as health or fitness trackers.

The battery life is reported to support up to two years of typical use. Upon depletion, users are instructed to return the ring to the company for recycling. This process is aligned with a stated goal of sustainability.

The ring is capable of storing up to five minutes of recorded audio. Audio data is retained locally and can be transferred to the user’s phone for transcription and review. The transcription system supports over 100 languages. If background noise interferes with accurate transcription, original audio files remain accessible for manual review.

The Index 01 is compatible with both iOS and Android platforms. It integrates with the Pebble mobile app, which offers note organization, reminders, and potential synchronization with third-party applications such as Notion or standard calendar tools. The system’s software is open source, enabling community-driven development and customization.

Additional functionality includes programmable button controls. Users may assign specific tasks to single or double button presses, such as music playback, camera operation, or message sending via the Beeper chat platform. This extends the device’s utility beyond its primary role as a voice note recorder.

Market analysis indicates that the Index 01 competes with other voice-note wearables, including Sandbar’s Stream Ring, which is priced at $249 and utilizes a subscription-based model. The Index 01 differentiates itself through its lower price point, absence of recurring fees, and local-only data storage approach.

Core Devices, Migicovsky’s current company, also manages the Pebble 2 Duo smartwatch, which has sold out its initial production run. An upgraded model, Pebble Time 2, has reportedly accumulated 25,000 pre-orders. These products, alongside the Index 01, compose a growing ecosystem targeting utility and privacy within the consumer wearable market.

In summary, the Index 01 is a single-purpose smart ring focused on secure and private voice note capture. Its value proposition centers on price, privacy, simplicity, and an open-source software environment. These factors collectively distinguish it from other products in the wearable technology sector.