Caitlin Cimino/Android Authority
We all know that quality sleep is the key to overall health, but can Apple Watch track sleep? The short answer is yes, somewhat. With the latest watchOS 7 update, Apple Watches Series 3 or later can now track sleep in the Sleep app. This is a once-and-for-all feature that is easy to start and run automatically every night. However, as we mentioned in the series 6 reviews, Apple’s data is mediocre at best.
How to track sleep on Apple Watch
Caitlin Cimino/Android Authority
Use your Apple Watch to create daily activities and develop better sleep habits. CDC recommends that adults sleep at least seven hours a night, and the Apple Sleep app can help you get on track. Follow the prompts on your device to create your personalized sleep schedule. After the settings are complete, you can adjust your sleep goals and schedule on your iPhone or Apple Watch. The following is how to set up sleep tracking on Apple Watch.
On your iPhone
- Open healthy App and click sleep.
- Tap Complete schedule and optionsAnd then in Additional options, Tap Sleep goals And choose the amount you want.
On Apple Watch
- Open sleep Apps on Apple Watch.
- Follow the instructions on the screen to create a Sleep goals, Bedtime, and wake up time.
After everything is ready, the only step left is to put on the Apple Watch to sleep. Sleep mode automatically disables Lift to Wake, so you will not activate the bright screen while comfortable. To temporarily exit sleep mode, tap the screen and turn the digital crown to unlock. Be sure to adjust your charging habits so that your device has enough power to use it overnight.
What does Apple Watch track?
If you just do it for the basics—think about general sleep trends—you may be satisfied. The sleep app will track your total sleep time and track the time you woke up all night, as well as your heart rate and calorie consumption. It also records the time you spend in bed and provides average sleep time per week and month. This data is based on your actions in sleep mode.
It’s worth noting that the app provides the option to create multiple sleep schedules, including selected bedtime, preferred wake-up time, alarm clock, and sleep goals. According to the schedule you set, your device will automatically enter sleep mode (this will limit your distractions before going to bed and ensure that you are not disturbed while you sleep).
View your sleep history
In the morning, wake up to an informative greeting, then look back at your rest time in the evening and compare it to the rest of the week. To view your sleep history, open the sleep app on Apple Watch and scroll down to view your data. For more statistics, such as weekly and monthly averages, or to see how your heart rate fluctuates throughout the night, please visit the app on the paired iPhone.
What are the shortcomings of Apple Watch sleep tracking?
So yes, now you can know how much you sleep (or didn’t sleep), but when it comes to really insightful data, Apple still hasn’t reached its goal.
Sleep stage
Although devices such as Garmin Venu 2 use exercise, heart rate, and heart rate variability (time between each heartbeat) to distinguish between REM sleep and non-REM sleep, the Apple Sleep app does not provide any breakdown of the time you spend in sleep Each stage of sleep (light, deep or REM). Many other wearable devices on the market also include sleep stage tracking, so we hope that Apple will add this feature in future versions.
Sleep score
Are you tossing and turning all night or taking a real, restorative rest? Many wearable devices, including Fitbit’s newer devices, provide daily sleep scores that summarize your sleep in a useful and actionable way. Who doesn’t find motivation in the scoring system? Without tracking sleep stages, sleep apps cannot provide this level of insight or data interpretation.
Sleep problems
Apple Watch cannot diagnose sleep conditions, so if you notice any abnormalities, you still need to see a doctor. Withings ScanWatch is one of the few wearable devices that can detect sleep apnea or any signs of severe AFib with a medical-grade ECG and pulse oximeter. Your Apple Watch may prompt you to find some violations, but it is not approved as a medical device.
In short, Apple Watch tracks quantity, but not necessarily quality.
While the Apple Watch can indeed track sleep, native apps still have a long way to go before they become very useful. Coupled with the fact that many wearable devices outperform the Apple Watch in terms of battery life, it seems that Apple is still lagging behind in the race to track sleep data.
You can also take a look: The best sleep tracker you can buy
Make the most of Apple Watch sleep tracking
Don’t settle for limited information. Many Apple Watch users use third-party apps to supplement sleep apps and collect more detailed information.
- Popular apps Automatic sleep It integrates seamlessly with Apple Health and even provides an experience similar to Apple’s activity ring. Autosleep will track the duration and quality of your sleep, and let you know your preparedness or your preparation for the day based on your rest.
- Another highly rated option, Sleep++ Provides data-driven sleep tracking to let you know how many times you enter deep sleep each night.
- Pillow Provide in-depth sleep analysis chart and smart alarm clock function, which can wake you up at the best time to maximize refreshment.