Oura Health recently came under fire for its data privacy policies. Consumer electronics firm Oura Health is best known for its popular smart rings, which monitor multiple health metrics. CEO Tom Hale addressed concerns regarding Oura’s relationship with Palantir Technologies and the implications for user data during a recent interview. He reiterated that Oura prioritizes user privacy above all else and addressed some of the myths circulating about their data-sharing with third parties.
Oura’s smart rings collect a wealth of information, including users’ heart rates, sleep patterns, body temperature, movement, and menstrual cycles. This information is vital for empowering users to make informed decisions about their health and wellness. As Hale has admitted, the misinformation stemming from Oura’s partnerships has understandably confused and annoyed users.
Hale noted that the misinformation on the issue was particularly bad. He emphasized the outcry from users concerned about their personal information. He noted that Oura’s ties to Palantir have been overstated.
As Hale elaborated, Oura just bought a company last year that had a SaaS relationship with Palantir. Just because this acquisition is happening doesn’t imply there’s a data-sharing MOU. Instead, he called it a “small commercial relationship” that has been blown out of proportion in the press.
“It’s a component of their solution. That contract is still running, and that news — that relationship — became blown into a ‘massive partnership‘ with Palantir … We have a small commercial relationship. The systems are not connected. There’s no way Palantir has access to your data. No one in the government can see your data. No one at Palantir can see your data. Totally overblown,” – Tom Hale
Hale guaranteed users that Oura does not sell any user data without their explicit consent. He underscored that when consumers do give Oura consent to their information, it is only accessible to designated staff. Furthermore, those persons have restricted functions to protect privacy. This allows the review process to be very tightly controlled.
“For the record, we will never share your data with anyone unless you direct us to do it. We will never sell your data to anyone ever,” – Tom Hale
Hale provided some clarity around data privacy concerns. He pointed out Oura’s new collaboration with Medicare Advantage to provide rings to qualifying patients. We hope this collaboration will increase access to vital health monitoring tools, particularly for under-resourced patients who stand to gain the most from their use.
The market is fundamentally moving to smaller, more simple and affordable wrist-worn devices, particularly in the Asia and India market. In turn, Oura is absolutely intent on continuing to grow. The company today is on a staggering pace of more than 100% growth. Hale pointed out that this expansion is a response to consumer demand for advanced health technology, as well as Oura’s demonstrated dedication to innovation.
While he’s disappointed by the recent outcry, Hale is bullish on Oura’s approach and where his company is headed. He used user trust—deliberated through multiple stakeholder lenses—as a fulcrum point for keeping Oura’s integrity of purpose.
“We don’t look at people’s data … you can’t do that,” – Tom Hale