Sleep tech: New technologies to improve sleep

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  Quantumrun Foresight
• March 10, 2022

Insight summary

Sleep is essential, yet many people struggle to get enough of it. The rise of sleep tech, including apps and gadgets designed to induce better sleep, offers hope to those grappling with sleeplessness, a problem that has only intensified during the COVID-19 pandemic. While not a replacement for expert care, these technologies may work in tandem with traditional methods to improve sleep quality and overall well-being.

Sleep tech context

Adults need at least seven hours of sleep every night, as recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). However, many are falling short of this target. During the COVID-19 pandemic, a review study found that 40 percent of people in 13 countries experienced sleep difficulties. The reasons behind an improper sleep cycle can vary widely, including anxiety, stress, alcohol, caffeine, social media, work-related issues, or even unemployment.

The World Health Organization (WHO) had already labeled sleeplessness as an "epidemic" before the pandemic. The rapid spread of the virus has intensified and broadened these feelings, leading to a condition known as "coronasomnia." On a positive note, there has been a surge in the development of new apps and gadgets aimed at promoting better sleep. These tools are becoming increasingly accessible and offer various ways to help individuals achieve a restful night.

The emergence of sleep tech is not just a trend but a response to a growing need. With the challenges of modern life and the additional pressures brought on by global events, sleep tech provides a bridge between traditional sleep therapy and self-guided improvement. From wearables to smart beds, these innovations are opening doors to better sleep health and a more balanced life.

Disruptive impact

Sleep tech may not replace expert therapists or specialists, but there is potential for gadgets and apps to complement existing sleep improvement methods. These tools, particularly those designed with scientific principles, can contribute to better sleep. For example, Tyler Skluzacek and his team have adapted a Pebble watch to monitor body movements and heart rate during sleep. A sudden increase in these indicators triggers vibrations to the wearer's wrist, disrupting a nightmare.

Other tech-based innovations, such as smart beds, weighted blankets, apps, movement and auditory sensors, and Oura rings, hold promise for enhancing sleep. Sleep tech may even allow individuals to choose their dreams, treat recurring nightmares, improve daytime functioning, and reduce health risks like strokes and cardiovascular diseases. The integration of technology into sleep management is not just about convenience; it's about enhancing the quality of life.

The potential of sleep tech goes beyond individual well-being. It represents a shift in how society approaches sleep health, recognizing it as a vital component of overall health and productivity. Collaboration between healthcare professionals, tech developers, and consumers can lead to more personalized and effective sleep solutions. The future of sleep tech is not just about gadgets; it's about a holistic approach to wellness.

Implications of sleep tech

Wider implications of sleep tech may include:

• Enhanced sleep quality and reduced sleep deprivation across populations, leading to overall well-being.
• Improved long-term health prospects by lowering stress hormones on a large scale, contributing to a healthier society.
• Increased worker productivity in both public and private sectors, boosting economic growth and efficiency.
• Potential collaboration between healthcare professionals and tech developers, leading to more personalized and effective sleep solutions.
• Greater accessibility to sleep improvement tools, democratizing access to sleep health.
• Ethical considerations in data privacy and security, requiring careful regulation and consumer education.
• The risk of over-reliance on technology, possibly overshadowing the importance of natural sleep habits and expert care.
• Potential disparities in access to sleep tech, highlighting the need for equitable distribution and affordability.
• The challenge of ensuring the scientific validity and effectiveness of sleep tech products, maintaining trust and reliability.
• The opportunity for global collaboration and research, fostering innovation and shared solutions in the field of sleep health.

Question to consider

• How can sleep tech help specialists monitor, test, diagnose, manage, prevent, and cure sleep-related disorders? 
• How might sleep tech impact the quality of your sleep?