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A: The 1’618 Tap to Pay Ring is a contactless NFC payment wearable that enables you to make secure, wallet-free payments by simply tapping your ring on any NFC-enabled point-of-sale terminal. Unlike smartwatches that require batteries and screens, the 1’618 Ring combines premium design with practical payment functionality—no charging, no complexity, just tap and pay.
A: You can connect any VISA or Mastercard credit or debit card directly to your 1’618 Ring through the 1618 Tap to Pay app. If your bank doesn’t yet support direct wearable integration, you can use Curve’s digital wallet, which consolidates multiple debit cards, credit cards, and even PayPal accounts into a single Curve card that connects to your ring. This gives you access to all your payment methods through one elegant wearable.
A: Curve is a UK-based financial technology platform with over 6 million users worldwide. It acts as a smart digital wallet that centralizes multiple payment methods into a single card and app. When you link your Curve card to your 1’618 Ring, you gain three major advantages: (1) you can connect all your debit cards, credit cards, and even PayPal accounts without your bank having to support the ring directly; (2) you can choose or reassign which card to use for each transaction, even after you’ve paid; and (3) you access Curve’s cashback, spend tracking, and rewards features. For users in the UK and European Economic Area (EEA) whose banks aren’t yet on the 1’618 support list, Curve is the perfect solution.
A: Download the 1618 Tap to Pay application from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store. Open the app and follow the registration prompts to create your account using your email address. You’ll then be guided to activate your 1’618 Ring. The entire process takes just a few minutes.
A: Activation is now simpler than ever—no complex hardware setup required for most users. Here’s what you need to know:
For Android Users (All Devices): (1) Scan our QR code or download the 1618 Tap to Pay app from Google Play Store; (2) Create your account and follow the app’s on- screen instructions; (3) When prompted, hold your 1’618 Ring against the NFC area of your Android phone (usually the top back of your device); (4) The app will detect your ring and guide you to link your VISA card, Mastercard, or Curve digital wallet; (5) Your bank will authenticate the connection; (6) Once verified, your ring is activated and ready to use.
For iPhone Users with iOS 26 or Later: Due to new EU regulations requiring Apple to open up NFC access to third-party payment apps, activation on iOS 26+ works the same way as Android: (1) Download the 1618 Tap to Pay app from the Apple App Store; (2) Create your account and follow the on-screen instructions; (3) Hold your 1’618 Ring against the NFC area of your iPhone (top back of your device); (4) The app will detect your ring and guide you to link your VISA card, Mastercard, or Curve digital wallet; (5) Your bank will authenticate the connection; (6) Once verified, your ring is activated and ready to use.
For iPhone Users with iOS 25 or Earlier: Older iPhones don’t yet have open NFC access, so we include a patented UPPU Dongle with your ring: (1) Download the 1618 Tap to Pay app from the Apple App Store; (2) Create your account and follow the on- screen instructions; (3) Connect the UPPU Dongle to a USB power source with the cable included, ensure the light indicator is turned on; (4) Place your 1’618 Ring on the UPPU Dongle as instructed by the app; (5) The dongle securely provisions your card (VISA, Mastercard, or Curve) onto the ring; (6) Once verified, disconnect the dongle and your ring is ready to use.
See “Understanding the UPPU Dongle (iPhone Only)” for more details on the dongle-based activation.
A: No. Your 1’618 Ring does not have a battery and never requires charging. The ring’s NFC chip is powered wirelessly by the payment terminal itself when you tap to pay—the same technology that powers contactless credit cards. This means your ring is always ready to use, requires zero maintenance, and will function reliably for years.
A: No. Once your card is provisioned onto your 1’618 Ring, you can make payments anywhere without your phone. Simply hold the ring close to an NFC-enabled payment terminal, and the transaction completes in seconds. Your phone is only needed if you want to change cards, view transaction history, manage your ring settings, or access Curve’s features.
A: The process is simple: (1) Check that the payment terminal displays the NFC contactless symbol; (2) Hold your hand with the 1’618 Ring close to the reader on the merchant’s point-of-sale terminal; (3) The terminal will emit a beep and display confirmation—your payment is complete. That’s it. No PIN entry required below the contactless limit, no signatures, no fumbling for your wallet.
A: In most EU countries, the contactless payment limit is €50, though this varies by country and individual bank. You do not need to enter a PIN for transactions below this limit. For transactions above the limit, you may be asked to enter your card PIN on the terminal or authorize the payment through your bank’s app, depending on your issuer’s policies. Check with your bank for details.
A: You can use your 1’618 Ring at any merchant—retail store, restaurant, gas station, taxi, supermarket, or online—that accepts contactless NFC payments. This includes virtually every major payment terminal worldwide that displays the NFC contactless symbol. According to Mastercard and VISA, contactless payments are accepted at over 38 million locations globally.
A: Yes, in most European cities and transit systems that accept Mastercard and VISA contactless payments. Your ring will work on buses, trains, trams, and metro systems equipped with NFC readers. Simply tap your ring on the reader when boarding. Check your local transit authority’s website to confirm NFC payment acceptance in your region.
A: Absolutely. Your 1’618 Ring works anywhere in the world where contactless NFC payment terminals are available. Look for the contactless symbol on the payment terminal. However, note that some international merchants may have transaction limits or additional authentication requirements. Also, your bank may charge international transaction fees depending on your card type—check your card issuer’s terms before traveling.
A: Your 1’618 Ring follows the same transaction limits as your physical payment card. These limits are set by your card issuer and are not controlled by the ring itself. If you’re concerned about spending limits or want to set restrictions, you can manage these settings through your bank’s app or by contacting your bank directly. Some users find it helpful to use Curve in conjunction with the ring, as Curve’s app provides real-time spending analytics and can help you monitor your budget.
A: You can add and have one payment card active at a time on the 1’618 Ring itself. This single-card design keeps the ring slim, elegant, and secure. If you want to carry multiple payment methods on one wearable, you have two options: (1) Use Curve’s digital wallet, which consolidates all your cards into one Curve card that you then link to your ring—with the ability to choose which underlying card to use for each transaction; or (2) Add multiple 1’618 Rings to your account and assign a different card to each ring. Many users find the Curve option elegant because they get all their payment methods and powerful spending controls through one device.
A: Follow these steps: (1) Open the 1618 Tap to Pay app on your phone; (2) Navigate to “Add New Card” from the app’s home screen; (3) For Android and modern iPhones: Hold your 1’618 Ring against your phone’s NFC reader and follow the app’s instructions; For legacy iPhones with the UPPU Dongle: Connect the UPPU Dongle to a USB power source with the cable included, ensure the light indicator is turned on; (4) Place your 1’618 Ring on the UPPU Dongle as instructed by the app; (5) Enter your payment card details (or Curve card details) into the app; (6) Confirm the card information and follow any authentication prompts from your bank—you may be asked to verify through a PIN, SMS code, or your bank’s authentication app; (7) Once verified, your card is activated on the ring and ready to use. The entire process takes about 5 minutes.
A: This is one of the biggest advantages of the 1’618 Ring combined with Curve. If your bank isn’t on the 1’618 direct support list, you can create a free Curve account, link your bank card to Curve (within seconds), and then connect your Curve card to your ring. This way, you gain access to all your payment methods without waiting for your bank to develop wearable support. Curve currently supports banks across the UK and the entire European Economic Area (EEA), so check their website for your specific bank.
A: To change your active card: (1) Open the 1618 Tap to Pay app; (2) Select your ring; (3) Tap “Change Card”; (4) For Android and modern iPhones: Hold your ring against your phone’s NFC reader; For legacy iPhones: Use the UPPU Dongle if needed; (5) Add your new card details and follow your bank’s authentication process. The old card is securely removed from the ring.
A: To permanently remove a card: (1) Open the 1618 Tap to Pay app; (2) Select your ring; (3) Tap “Change Card” and choose “Delete Card”; (4) Confirm deletion. The card data is immediately and securely removed from your ring. You can then add a new card using the process described above.
A: The 1’618 Ring employs multiple layers of security: (1) Tokenization: Your actual card number is never stored on the ring. Instead, a unique encrypted token is created that works only on your specific ring and only for contactless payments. Even if your ring is lost or stolen, the token is worthless to anyone else; (2) Secure Element Chip: Your ring contains an EMVCo-certified secure element (the same technology used in bank- grade payment cards) that protects your payment credentials from unauthorized access; (3) Encryption: All data transmission between your ring and payment terminals is encrypted using industry-standard protocols; (4) No Battery, No Wireless: Because your ring has no battery or Bluetooth, it cannot be remotely tracked or hacked—it only activates when physically near a payment terminal. This makes it significantly more secure than payment-enabled smartwatches that maintain constant wireless connections.
A: Yes. Your fraud protection is governed by the same policies as your physical payment card and are underwritten by your card issuer (your bank). Fraudulent or unauthorized transactions made with your 1’618 Ring are protected under your bank’s standard cardholder protection and applicable EU consumer protection regulations. In the event of suspected fraud, contact your bank immediately to report the unauthorized transaction. For added peace of mind, you can instantly disable your ring through the 1618 Tap to Pay app if you misplace it.
A: Act quickly: (1) Open the 1618 Tap to Pay app immediately; (2) Select your ring; (3) Tap “Lock” and confirm block wearable to instantly disable payments on the lost ring; (4) Call your card issuer (your bank) to report the situation and request they suspend or cancel the card token; (5) Contact 1’618 support at support@1618wear.com to report the loss and discuss replacement options. Because the payment token on your ring is not the same as your actual card number, your broader financial accounts remain secure. Your bank can issue you a new token for a replacement ring if you choose to purchase one.
A: Follow the same steps as if the ring were lost: (1) Use the 1618 Tap to Pay app to instantly deactivate the ring; (2) Contact your bank to suspend the payment token; (3) Contact 1’618 support to file a loss report. Additionally, consider filing a theft report with local police, as this may assist with insurance claims if you have coverage. Because the ring uses tokenization, your actual bank accounts and credit cannot be compromised—only the specific payment token on that individual ring becomes inactive.
A: This depends on your risk tolerance and the ring’s replacement cost. Your 1’618 Ring can be insured under many homeowners or renters insurance policies as a valuable accessory, or through specialized jewelry insurance providers. Jewelry insurance typically covers loss, theft, and damage. Review your existing policies to see what’s covered, then decide if additional coverage makes sense for you. Unlike lost credit cards, losing your ring doesn’t compromise your financial accounts (thanks to tokenization), but you will need to purchase a replacement ring and re-provision your card.
A: Yes. You can add and manage multiple 1’618 Rings within the 1618 Tap to Pay app. This is useful if you want: (1) Different cards on different rings (one for business, one for personal); (2) A backup ring while you’re traveling or if one is being serviced; (3) Rings in different colors or styles for different occasions. Each ring is managed independently through the app, and you can easily switch between them or disable any ring remotely if needed.
A: To move your card to a different ring: (1) Open the 1618 Tap to Pay app; (2) Delete the card from the current ring using the card management menu; (3) Add the same card to your new ring by holding it against your phone’s NFC reader (or using the UPPU Dongle on legacy iPhones) and following the “Add New Card” process. Your bank will authenticate the new provisioning. This takes about 5 minutes total.
A: Before discarding or recycling your old ring: (1) Open the 1618 Tap to Pay app and delete all cards from the ring—this ensures the old token cannot be used; (2) Tap “Remove Ring from Account” to deregister it from your profile. Then, with your new ring: (1) Unpack it and connect it to your account in the app; (2) Hold it against your phone’s NFC reader (or use the UPPU Dongle on legacy iPhones) to activate your card following the standard “Add New Card” process. Keep the old ring for at least 30 days in case you need it for troubleshooting, then recycle it responsibly.
A: Open the 1618 Tap to Pay app and navigate to the “Transaction History” or “Activity” section. You’ll see a detailed log of all payments made with your 1’618 Ring, including the merchant name, transaction amount, date, time, and status. You can filter by date range and export this data for your records or accounting purposes. For comprehensive spending insights, the Curve app (if you use Curve) provides even more detailed analytics, spending trends, and cashback tracking across all your payment methods.
A: If you’ve forgotten your password: (1) Open the 1618 Tap to Pay app; (2) On the login screen, tap “Forgot My Password”; (3) Enter the email address associated with your account; (4) Check your email for a password reset link (check spam/promotions if needed); (5) Click the link and create a new password; (6) Log back into the app with your new credentials. If you don’t receive a reset email within a few minutes, contact support@1618wear.com.
A: Common reasons and solutions: (1) Wrong credentials: Ensure you’re using the correct email and password. Use the “Forgot My Password” link if unsure; (2) Account locked: After multiple failed login attempts, your account may be temporarily locked for security. Wait 30 minutes and try again, or use “Forgot My Password” to reset; (3) App not updated: Ensure you have the latest version of the 1618 Tap to Pay app installed from the App Store or Google Play; (4) Device compatibility: Confirm your phone supports NFC and runs a compatible iOS or Android version. Check the app store for minimum requirements; (5) Internet connection: Ensure your phone has a stable internet connection. If issues persist, contact support@1618wear.com.
A: The UPPU Dongle is a patented, optional USB accessory that only iPhone users with iOS 25 or earlier need to use. UPPU stands for “Universal Passive Provisioning Unit.”
Why is it needed only for older iPhones? Apple’s older iOS versions (prior to iOS 26) restrict NFC access exclusively to Apple Pay. They don’t allow third-party payment apps to use the Secure Element—the protected chip that stores payment credentials. The UPPU Dongle works around this limitation by providing a separate secure channel directly to your 1’618 Ring.
When did this change? In 2025-2026, new EU regulations required Apple to open up NFC access to third-party payment apps. Starting with iOS 26, you can now activate your 1’618 Ring directly on your iPhone without any additional hardware.
Bottom line: If you have iOS 26 or later, you don’t need the UPPU Dongle—activation is as simple as on Android. If you have iOS 25 or earlier, we include the UPPU Dongle with your ring at no extra cost.
A: No. Android has always allowed third-party NFC payment apps to access the Secure Element directly. This means Android users never need the UPPU Dongle — activation is simple and straightforward by holding your ring against your phone’s NFC reader.
A: No. Starting with iOS 26, Apple opened up NFC access to third-party payment apps to comply with EU regulations. This means iPhone users with iOS 26 or later don’t need the UPPU Dongle. Activation works exactly like Android: download the app, hold your ring against your phone’s NFC reader, and you’re done. We will not include a UPPU Dongle with rings sold to iOS 26+ users.
A: Once you’ve successfully activated your ring using the UPPU Dongle (on iOS 25 or earlier), you can: (1) Store it safely as a backup in case you need to update your card in the future (though future updates will also work with the dongle); (2) Keep it with your ring in case you travel with older iOS devices; (3) Recycle it if you upgrade to iOS 26 or later and no longer need it (it’s an electronic device, so please dispose of it responsibly). The dongle itself never needs charging and has no battery—it’s a one- time-use provisioning tool.
A: Apple’s restrictions on NFC access were a strategic decision to maintain control over mobile payments. For years, Apple restricted third-party apps from accessing the Secure Element—the protected chip that stores payment credentials—meaning only Apple Pay could use NFC for contactless payments. This gave Apple an exclusive monopoly on iPhone payment wearables.
In 2024-2025, the European Union introduced the Digital Markets Act and other regulations requiring Apple to open up NFC access to compete fairly with Android. These regulations required Apple to allow third-party payment apps (like 1’618) to provision their own secure payment credentials.
What does this mean for you? Older iPhones (iOS 25 and earlier) couldn’t be updated to support open NFC—that would require Apple to rebuild their entire NFC architecture. So for backward compatibility, iPhone users with older OS versions need the UPPU Dongle as a workaround. With iOS 26 and later, this workaround is no longer necessary.
A: No. If your iPhone runs iOS 26 or later, your ring will not include a UPPU Dongle because you don’t need it. You can activate your 1’618 Ring directly on your phone using the NFC reader. If you’re upgrading from an older iPhone to iOS 26 and already have a UPPU Dongle from a previous purchase, you can recycle it or keep it as a backup, but it won’t be necessary for future activations or updates.
Your 1’618 Ring activation is now simpler than ever for most users:
1. Download & Register: Scan our QR code or download the 1618 Tap to Pay app from Google Play Store (Android) or Apple App Store (iOS 26+)
2. Create Account: Follow the on-screen prompts to register with your email address
3. Activate Your Ring:
o Hold your 1’618 Ring against the NFC area of your phone (usually the top back of your device)
o The app will detect your ring and display a confirmation message
4. Link Your Card:
o Select whether you want to use a direct VISA/Mastercard, or your Curve digital wallet
o Enter your card details as prompted
5. Authenticate:
o Your bank will send a verification code (SMS, push notification, or in-app prompt)
o Complete the authentication to confirm the provisioning
6. Done: Your ring is now activated and ready to make payments
Total time: 3-5 minutes. No additional hardware needed.
If you have an iPhone with iOS 25 or earlier, here’s how to activate your ring with the included UPPU Dongle:
1. Download & Register: Download the 1618 Tap to Pay app from the Apple App Store
2. Create Account: Follow the on-screen prompts to register with your email address
3. Prepare the Dongle:
o Connect the UPPU Dongle to a USB power source with the cable included, ensure the light indicator is turned on
o Open the app and follow the “Activate Ring” prompts
4. Place Your Ring:
o The app will display alignment instructions
o Carefully place your 1’618 Ring on the UPPU Dongle, following the on- screen guides
o Keep the ring steady and in contact with the dongle
5. Link Your Card:
o The app will securely encrypt your card details (VISA, Mastercard, or Curve) onto the ring
o You may be prompted to authenticate with your bank
6. Disconnect:
o Once the app displays “Ring Activated,” safely disconnect the dongle from your iPhone
7. Done: Your ring is now activated and ready to make payments
Total time: 5-7 minutes. Dongle can be stored away after activation.
A: If your Android phone isn’t detecting the ring: (1) Enable NFC: Go to Settings > Connected Devices > NFC and toggle it ON. (2) Check NFC placement: Hold your ring at the top back of your phone (where the NFC antenna is located) and hold steady for 1- 2 seconds; (3) Remove interference: Metal objects, credit cards, or phone cases with metallic linings can block NFC signals. Try removing your phone case or moving away from metal surfaces; (4) Update the app: Ensure you have the latest version of the 1618 Tap to Pay app from Google Play; (5) Restart your phone: Close the app completely, restart your phone, and try again; (6) Check ring placement: Ensure you’re holding the specific part of your ring where the NFC antenna is embedded (usually the inner top surface). If the issue persists, contact support@1618wear.com.
A: If the UPPU Dongle isn’t connecting to your ring: (1) Dongle connection: Ensure the dongle is fully and firmly seated to a USB power source with the cable included and the light indicator is turned on; (2) Ring placement: Check that your 1’618 Ring is placed precisely on the dongle, aligned with the markings shown in the app. The ring’s NFC antenna must contact the dongle’s provisioning surface—adjust slightly and try again; (3) Phone stability: Keep your iPhone still during the provisioning process. Movement or vibration can interrupt the connection; (4) Permissions: If your iPhone prompts you to allow the app to use USB/accessories, tap “Allow”; (5) Try again: Disconnect the dongle, wait 30 seconds, and reconnect it. Restart the app and attempt provisioning again; (6) If still unsuccessful, the dongle or ring may have a hardware issue. Contact support@1618wear.com with details about your phone model and iOS version.
A: If the app repeatedly asks you to rescan: (1) NFC placement: Each time you rescan, try placing your ring in slightly different positions on the NFC reader (about 1-2 cm from the phone’s surface). Some phones have NFC antennas in different locations; (2) Ring contact: Ensure the NFC antenna on your ring (usually the inner top surface) is in full contact with your phone’s NFC reader or the dongle; (3) Phone interference: Remove your phone from any metal case, wallet, or stand. Metal objects interfere with NFC signals; (4) Restart: Close the app, restart your phone, and try a fresh activation attempt; (5) For UPPU Dongle users: Make sure the dongle is fully connected and has a stable connection to your iPhone. Try a different USB cable if available. If the problem persists, contact support@1618wear.com.
A: This error means your ring isn’t being recognized by your phone or the UPPU Dongle: (1) Ring placement (NFC readers): For Android and iOS 26+ users, ensure your ring is being held against the correct part of your phone (top back, where the NFC antenna is); (2) Ring placement (UPPU Dongle): Ensure your ring is placed precisely on the dongle’s designated surface and fully in contact; (3) Ring NFC antenna: Check that nothing is blocking the NFC antenna on your ring (usually the inner top surface). Remove any protective films or debris; (4) Hardware issue: If your ring has been dropped or damaged, the internal NFC antenna may be damaged. Try with a different ring if available; (5) Dongle connection: For legacy iPhone users, verify the UPPU Dongle is fully seated to a USB power source with the cable included, ensure the light indicator is turned on; (6) App cache: Close the app completely. Go to Settings > Apps > 1618 Tap to Pay > Storage > Clear Cache. Reopen the app and try again. If the issue persists, contact support@1618wear.com.
A: Error messages from the 1618 Tap to Pay app can indicate various issues. Common errors include: (1) “Ring Not Detected”: See troubleshooting above; (2) “Provisioning Failed”: Bank authentication issue or interrupted connection. Try again, ensuring stable internet; (3) “Card Not Supported”: Your card issuer isn’t yet on the 1’618 support list. Use Curve as an alternative; (4) “Authentication Failed”: Your bank’s security check was denied. Ensure you verified the provisioning request in your bank’s app or SMS. If your bank has unusual security policies, contact your bank’s support team; (5) “Dongle Not Detected” (iPhone users): The UPPU Dongle isn’t properly connected. Reseat it firmly and try again; (6) Other codes: Refer to the quick setup guide included with your ring, or search the error code in the app’s Help section. If you can’t resolve it, take a screenshot of the error code and send it to support@1618wear.com.
A: If your ring isn’t being read by payment terminals: (1) Confirm card activation: Open the 1618 Tap to Pay app and verify that your card shows as “Active” or “Provisioned” on your ring; (2) Payment limit: If your transaction is above your bank’s contactless limit (€50 in most EU countries), you may be asked to insert your card or enter a PIN instead. Contact your bank to confirm your contactless limit; (3) Terminal compatibility: Not all terminals accept NFC payments. Look for the contactless symbol on the terminal. If absent, ask the merchant if they accept contactless payments; (4) Ring placement: When tapping, hold your ring (make a fist of your hand wearing the ring) about 2-4 cm from the terminal’s reader for 1-2 seconds. Don’t remove it too quickly; (5) Terminal reboot: Occasionally, the terminal may be temporarily offline. Try a different terminal nearby, or ask the cashier to reboot their terminal; (6) Re-activate your card: Delete and re-add your card to the ring by holding it against your phone’s NFC reader (or using the UPPU Dongle on legacy iPhones). This resolves most payment issues; (7) If still failing, contact support@1618wear.com with details about which terminals aren’t accepting your ring and your location.
A: For technical support or issues: (1) Email: Send a detailed description of your problem, including screenshots and error messages, to support@1618wear.com; (2) In- app help: Many issues can be resolved through the app’s built-in Help or FAQ section; (3) Response time: Expect a response within 24-48 business hours. Provide your order number, account email, and ring serial number to speed up resolution; (4) Emergency deactivation: If your ring is lost or stolen and you can’t access the app, call your bank to suspend the payment token immediately.
A: We’d love to hear your feedback! Send feature ideas and suggestions to support@1618wear.com with the subject line “Feature Request: [Your Idea].” The 1’618 team reviews all submissions and may incorporate user suggestions into future app updates and product versions.
A: Great question—these are fundamentally different products designed for different needs:
| Feature | 1’618 Ring | Apple / Garmin / Galaxy Watch | 1’618 Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Primary purpose | Contactless payment | Notifications, fitness, health, calls, apps | Singular focus on payment elegance |
| Design | Slim, jewelry-like ring | Bulky wrist-worn screen | Discreet, always-on-hand |
| Battery life | Never needs charging (powered by terminal) | 1-2 days (requires daily charging) | Zero maintenance, always ready |
| Daily notifications | None (check app later) | Incoming calls, texts, alerts, emails | Minimal distraction, focused |
| Apps and ecosystem | 1 companion app | Hundreds of apps | No lock-in, works anywhere |
| Fitness tracking | Available soon | Advanced (GPS, workouts, heart rate) | Specialized payment device |
| Payment method | NFC contactless card token | Digital wallet (Apple Pay, Samsung Pay) | Tokenization, always independent |
| Cost | €99 | €400–€800+ | Better value for payment-focused users |
| Global compatibility | Works at any NFC terminal | Limited to Apple/Samsung ecosystems | Maximum merchant coverage |
| Setup time | 3–5 minutes (no dongle for most users) | 15+ minutes (account linking, pairing) | Faster first-time setup |
Bottom line: If you want a comprehensive smartwatch experience with notifications and fitness tracking, choose Apple, Garmin or Galaxy Watch. If you want a sleek, always-ready payment device that never needs charging and works everywhere, choose the 1’618 Ring. Many users love having both: a smartwatch for fitness and notifications, plus a ring for frictionless payments.
A: The Oura Ring is an excellent health and sleep tracking device, but it’s not a payment device. Here’s why they serve completely different purposes:
The Oura Ring (Gen 4) focuses on sleep analysis, heart rate, temperature, blood oxygen (SpO2), activity tracking, and health insights. It charges every 5-7 days and requires an active subscription (€5.99/month) to access its full features. It’s the best-in-class health ring on the market, but it doesn’t offer contactless payments.
The 1’618 Ring is a payment-first device that uses NFC technology to enable contactless payments—no health tracking, no screen, no charging.
Why choose 1’618? The 1’618 Ring combines the best of both worlds: direct VISA/Mastercard support for users whose banks are on our list, PLUS Curve integration for those whose banks aren’t there yet. Our streamlined activation process (no hardware needed for Android and iOS 26+ users) is faster and more user-friendly than app-only competitors. Unlike Oura Ring, we’re payment-first.
A: Absolutely. Your 1’618 Ring works at any NFC-enabled payment terminal worldwide. In France, like most of Europe, look for the contactless symbol on payment terminals at shops, restaurants, taxis, and transit systems. Your ring will work seamlessly. A few considerations:
(1) Currency conversion: Your bank handles currency conversion automatically. Check your bank’s foreign exchange rates and fees;
(2) Contactless limit: France’s contactless limit is €50 (same as most EU countries). For larger transactions, you may need to enter your PIN;
(3) Tap payment acceptance: Restaurants and outdoor markets may be slower to adopt contactless, so have a backup payment method (backup card or cash) just in case;
(4) Customer familiarity: Most people recognize contactless card payments, but some may be curious about your “magical ring.” Be prepared for questions! If all else fails, you can always use your physical Curve card if linked to Curve.
A: No, your 1’618 Ring is for in-person, contactless payments only. It cannot be used for online shopping because online transactions require you to enter your full card number, expiration date, and CVV code—and your ring doesn’t store this information (by design, for security). For online shopping:
(1) If you use Curve, link your card to Curve and use the Curve app or website for online purchases;
(2) If you have direct bank support, use your bank’s online payment system or add your card directly to your web browser’s payment wallet (like Safari on iPhone with Apple Pay, or Chrome on Android with Google Pay);
(3) Your physical payment card will always work for online purchases.
A: If a terminal fails to accept your ring:
(1) Ask the merchant: “Does this terminal accept contactless NFC payments?” Some older terminals may not support it;
(2) Try another terminal: If the shop has multiple registers, another terminal nearby may work;
(3) Request a reboot: Politely ask the cashier if they can restart their terminal—temporary glitches happen;
(4) Use your physical card: If available, use your backup payment card;
(5) Check terminal compatibility: Look for the NFC contactless symbol on the terminal. Terminals without this symbol won’t accept NFC payments;
(6) Contact 1’618: If you encounter consistent issues with a particular merchant’s terminals, note the location and date, and report it to support@1618wear.com. We track merchant compatibility to improve the experience.
A: Yes, in most cases. Many modern self-checkout kiosks have NFC payment terminals. Simply tap your ring on the reader when prompted to “pay.” Kiosks from major retailers typically support contactless, but older or smaller retailers’ self-checkout systems may not. If the kiosk doesn’t have a visible contactless symbol or NFC reader, it may require you to use a card-reading slot or manual entry instead.
A: The 1’618 Ring is crafted from ceramic for durability, water resistance, and hypoallergenic properties. All 1’618 Rings undergo rigorous testing to ensure they withstand daily wear, water splashes, temperature changes, and minor impacts.
A: Yes, the 1’618 Ring is fully waterproof and safe to wear in the shower, while swimming, or at the beach. The ring’s NFC chip and internal components are sealed and tested for water resistance up to IP68. That said, avoid:
(1) Extreme heat: from saunas or boiling water (sustained temperatures above 60°C may damage the component);
(2) Harsh chemicals: Chlorine, saltwater, and certain soaps can discolor or damage the outer surface over time. Rinse with fresh water after swimming in a pool or ocean;
(3) Abrasive cleaning: Don’t scrub with harsh brushes. Clean gently with a soft cloth and mild soap.
A: Yes, the materials used in the 1’618 Ring are hypoallergenic and skin-safe. Our rings are designed for all-day wear without causing allergic reactions or skin irritation. If you have sensitive skin or known metal allergies, consult the ring’s material specifications (included in your packaging or available on www.1618wear.com) and test-wear it for 24 hours to ensure comfort.
A:
(1) Cleaning: Use a soft, damp microfiber cloth to gently wipe your ring after use, especially after being exposed to sweat, salt water, or dust;
(2) For deeper cleaning, use a solution of mild soap (like dish soap) and warm water. Dampen your cloth, wipe the ring gently, and dry thoroughly with a soft cloth;
(3) Avoid abrasive scrubbers, high-pressure water jets, or harsh chemicals like bleach or acetone;
(4) Storage: When not in use, store your ring in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and extreme heat. Avoid leaving it in hot cars or near heaters.
Longevity tips:
(1) Remove your ring during intense contact sports (rugby, boxing) where impact could damage the NFC chip or antenna;
(2) Avoid extended exposure to extreme heat (above 60°C) or extreme cold (below -20°C);
(3) If you experience physical damage (cracks, visible internal damage, or water ingress), contact support@1618wear.com immediately—continued use could cause further damage.
A: Yes. The 1’618 Ring is designed with sustainability in mind:
(1) Zero charging: Unlike smartwatches requiring daily charging, the 1’618 Ring never needs a battery or charger, eliminating the e-waste from degraded batteries and charging cables over time;
(2) Durable materials: The ring’s materials are selected for longevity, reducing the need for frequent replacements;
(3) Recycling: When your ring reaches end-of-life (typically after several years of daily wear), it can be recycled through standard electronics or jewelry recycling programs. The NFC chip and materials are recoverable and reusable;
(4) Contactless payments: By reducing your reliance on physical cards and cash, contactless payments with your 1’618 Ring minimize the environmental impact of card production and cash handling. Contactless payments rank in the top 3 most sustainable payment methods according to the European Automobile Manufacturing Association’s Life Cycle Assessment;
(5) Packaging: Our packaging is minimal and made from recyclable or compostable materials.
A: You can purchase the 1’618 Ring directly from www.1618wear.com or through authorized retailers shop@1618wear.com.
A: DHL eCommerce (Standard Webshop Shipping)
This service is designed for regular e-commerce shipments, offering high flexibility for recipients.
| Shipping Option | Destination | Estimated Delivery Time |
|---|---|---|
| DHL For You | Within Benelux | Next working day |
| DHL Parcel Connect | Within Europe | 1–5 working days |
A: We offer a 30-day return window on all unworn, unused rings with original packaging and tags intact. If you’re not completely satisfied with your 1’618 Ring, you can return it within 30 days of delivery for a full refund (excluding original shipping costs). Here’s the process:
(1) Contact support@1618wear.com with your order number within 30 days of delivery;
(2) Ensure the ring is in original, unworn condition and includes all original packaging and documentation;
(3) We’ll provide you with a return shipping label;
(4) Once we receive and inspect the returned ring, we’ll process your refund within 5-7 business days to your original payment method.
Note: If you’ve provisioned your card onto the ring, you’ll need to delete the card (which deactivates the ring) before returning it. Returns in worn or damaged condition may be subject to a restocking fee.
A: We’re committed to shipping rings in perfect condition. If your ring arrives damaged:
(1) Document the damage: Take clear photos of the damaged ring and packaging;
(2) Contact us immediately: Email support@1618wear.com within 7 days of delivery with photos and your order number;
(3) Replacement: We’ll send a replacement ring at no charge (with prepaid return shipping for the damaged one);
(4) Process time: Replacement rings typically ship within 2-3 business days.
A: Yes. All 1’618 Rings come with a 2 year warranty Limited Warranty covering manufacturing defects in materials and workmanship under normal use. The warranty does not cover: damage from accidents, misuse, drops, water damage beyond the stated waterproof rating, unauthorized repairs, or normal wear and tear.
For warranty claims:
(1) Contact support@1618wear.com with your order number, photos of the issue, and description of what happened;
(2) We’ll evaluate the claim and either repair or replace your ring.
For out-of-warranty repairs or damage, contact support for pricing.
A: That's not possible, but don’t worry. Europe is an attractive destination thanks to its unparalleled mix of rich history and diverse culture, breathtaking nature, and exceptionally easy travel options. So, if you’re coming from abroad, 2026 is an excellent year to visit Europe, thanks to several major international events and new cultural opportunities.
A: Data protection is paramount. Here’s how we secure your information:
(1) Tokenization: Your actual card number is never stored on the ring or in our systems. Only an encrypted, single-use token is transmitted during payment;
(2) Secure Element: The ring’s NFC chip is an EMVCo-certified secure element—the same technology used in banking cards—that isolates and protects payment credentials;
(3) End-to-end encryption: All communication between the ring and payment terminals is encrypted using industry-standard protocols (AES-128 or stronger);
(4) GDPR compliance: We fully comply with the EU’s General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). We collect only the data necessary to process your payments and manage your account;
(5) No third-party sales: We never sell or share your personal data or payment information with third parties. Your data is yours alone;
(6) PCI-DSS: Our systems are compliant with the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard, the global benchmark for payment security.
A: We collect only the minimum data necessary to operate the service:
(1) Account information: Your email, name, and phone number (for account recovery and customer support);
(2) Payment data: Only encrypted tokens and transaction metadata (amount, merchant, timestamp)—never your actual card number;
(3) Device information: Your ring’s serial number and provisioning history (for support and account security);
(4) Usage analytics: Anonymized, aggregated data about how the app is used (feature popularity, crash reports) to improve our service.
We never collect: your actual card numbers, PIN codes, your location, your browsing history, or your health data. We use your data solely to: deliver the payment service, support your account, investigate fraud (if reported), comply with financial regulations, and improve our product. You can request a copy of all your data or request deletion of your account at any time by contacting support@1618wear.com (subject to legal retention requirements).
A: Your payment security is tied to your card issuer (your bank) and payment networks (VISA/Mastercard), not to 1’618. Even if 1’618 changes ownership or ceases operations:
(1) Your card remains secure: The payment token on your ring is controlled by your bank and payment networks, not by 1’618;
(2) Deactivation: We would immediately deactivate all rings and migrate customer data to a successor company or securely delete it per GDPR requirements;
(3) No account takeover: Your bank account and credit card account are separate from and unaffected by 1’618’s status;
(4) Transparent communication: We would proactively notify all users of any major changes to our service.
In the worst-case scenario of company closure, your ring becomes a standard NFC card (no longer functional for payments without reactivation through another service), but your underlying financial accounts remain completely secure and unaffected.
A: Email: support@1618wear.com (24-48 hour response time)
In-app help: The 1618 Tap to Pay app includes a Help section with FAQs, troubleshooting guides, and video tutorials.
Emergency deactivation: If your ring is lost or stolen and you can’t access the app, call your bank immediately to suspend the payment token.
A: https://www.instagram.com/1618wear
A: We offer 1’618 members early access, allowing VIPs to be the first to discover new products, offers, or features. We value customer loyalty and believe you can provide valuable feedback from the market. It's no wonder the brand is built by the people who wear it.
The 1’618 Tap to Pay Ring represents the future of contactless payments—elegant, secure, and always ready. Whether you’re making a quick coffee purchase, traveling internationally, or managing multiple payment methods through Curve, your 1’618 Ring delivers frictionless, wallet-free payment experiences.
With streamlined activation (no hardware needed for Android and iOS 26+ users), the freedom to choose between direct bank support or Curve’s multi-card flexibility, and premium design that works everywhere, the 1’618 Ring is payment wearable innovation made simple.
We’re committed to providing world-class customer support, continuous product improvements, and a payment experience that simply works. If you have questions, ideas, or feedback, we’d love to hear from you at support@1618wear.com.
Happy tapping. Enjoy the freedom of payment without the wallet.
Last Updated: January 2026 - For the latest product information, regional availability, and support resources, visit www.1618wear.com
Happy tapping.
Enjoy the freedom of payment
without the wallet.