Sleep tracking function. Multifunctional sleep systems. When is the best time to wake up?

With the beginning of the 21st century, modern high technologies, which until recently were classified as science fiction, are increasingly being introduced into everyday life. ordinary people. One of these technological innovations, actively offered to everyone, is smart alarm clock bracelet with sleep phases. How does this type of gadget work, what are its features and characteristics, what should you look for when choosing a specific model? You will learn about this and much more by reading our article.

Why do you need a smart alarm clock?

A smart alarm bracelet is one of the types of modern fitness gadgets. Their main purpose is to monitor the sleep of the person wearing this device and wake up the person at a certain time.

The bracelets are equipped with special sensors that constantly read the user’s basic vital signs online and determine. Through software analysis the optimal time interval for waking up is selected, which will not harm the quality of sleep and human health.

Almost all modern devices of this type on the market can be synchronized with software installed on a personal computer or smartphone for the most accurate settings and obtaining detailed statistics if necessary. Also, if desired, the gadget can work completely autonomously, being configured just once.

Beautiful external compact appearance, long time continuous operation, light vibration on your hand to wake you up instead of a loud, annoying ringtone - a smart bracelet alarm clock is worth the money and can really improve the quality of your sleep.

How does the bracelet determine sleep stages?

This device continuously monitors a person's vital signs. Main sensors:

• Sound recording miniature microphone. Registers all sounds made by a person during a night's rest and registers their maximum decrease and increase, which are characteristics of the sleep phases;
• Heart rate monitor. Monitors a person’s pulse – in the fast and slow sleep it is significantly different;
• Accelerometer. Defines any motor activity wearing

The above indicators are analyzed by software and based on them, sleep phases are determined, as well as perfect time for awakening. The most advanced ones can even be used to record serious sleep disorders - for example, somnambulism, since specific data in the form of readings is available in the smartphone application interface.

Smart alarm clock bracelet with sleep phases

Below are the most popular and in-demand series of smart bracelets on the market from well-known manufacturers that have proven themselves well among users.

Xiaomi MiBand

An inexpensive but very functional line of electronic bracelets from a young but very dynamically developing brand - in just six years, the company has grown into a real giant of personal electronic equipment, actively squeezing out more famous Chinese competitors.

The first model of the gadget appeared in 2014, had decent functionality by the standards of those years and a very low cost compared to competitors - the recommended price of $13 surprised many. At the moment, the model range includes modifications 1A and 1S with expanded capabilities and higher quality materials, as well as a mid-2016 model - Xiaomi MiBand 2 - the latter, unfortunately, does not have a smart alarm function. One of best solutions from the brand for us today – Xiaomi MiBand 1S Pulse.

Basic characteristics:

• Total weight – 5.5 grams;
• Case material – metal;
• The main method of notification is vibration and light indication (LEDs and vibration motor);
• Dimensions – 37.9 by 13.76 by 9.9 millimeters;
• Compatibility – Android 4.3+, iOS 7.0+;
• Battery – 45 mAh ( real time continuous operation – 12-15 days, fully charged in 2 hours);
• Water protection – class IP67 (water-repellent);
• Sensors – accelerometer and heart rate monitor;
• Price range is from 13 to 25 dollars.

In addition to the device, the standard package includes a black silicone bracelet, a USB charging cable and brief documentation.

To synchronize with a smartphone, standard Mi Fi software is used t – for it to work, you need to create an account in the system, and also go through confirmation via SMS. Full functionality is available in the Android version, while iOS only allows you to keep step statistics, set an alarm clock and measure your heart rate without recording it in the readings.

Basic functions:

Key Features:

• View counts of steps taken, calories burned, advanced sleep data, weight and heart rate indicators;
• Setting up a smart alarm;
• Creating and monitoring goals;
• Tracking the route of movement with recording kilometers;
• Bracelet search mode if lost.

A smart alarm clock can work without a phone, and notifications from various applications do not disturb a person’s sleep.

According to most reviews about the gadget, it almost perfectly combines wide functionality and low cost, however, some users note some errors when calculating the distance traveled - the device often perceives fast walking as running, but the alarm clock works perfectly correctly and always gives a wake-up signal in phase REM sleep.

Conclusion– an ideal choice, the best offer on the market.

Jawbone U.P.

Another well-known fitness bracelet on the world market with a built-in smart alarm function. The model range was developed by one of the pioneers of the industry - the company of the same name, which officially presented the above-described convenient gadget back in 2012.

Since that time, the manufacturer has primarily focused on improving the software and creating mechanisms for synchronizing the device with third-party popular applications. Wherein gadget hardware for a long time remained unchanged, which competitors skillfully took advantage of by releasing more inexpensive analogues with better functionality.

A new line from Jawbone called UP2, presented to the general public almost 4 years after the debut presentation, was designed to restore the balance of power in the market and partially coped with this task. The latest model range includes 8 devices in the price range from 30 to 120 dollars. The most popular gadget, naturally, was the younger modification.

Main settings:

• Weight – 25 grams;
• Dimensions – 11.5 by 3 by 8.5 millimeters, strap varies between 140-190 millimeters;
• Software – Adroid 4.0+, iOS 7.0+;
• Moisture resistance – splash protection;
• Material – rubber;
• Battery – 38 mAh, actual operating time is about 7 days, charging takes 1.5 hours;
• Sensors – pedometer-accelerometer;
• Indication – vibration and LED.

To the obvious advantages and functional features of the gadget These include a secure fit on your hand, high-quality material, a very functional application and full integration with almost all third-party services, and the presence of a smart alarm clock.

Of the minuses, we note the absence of mechanical control keys, too much complex controls, high cost of the product. In addition, the product’s alarm clock does not work correctly without synchronization with the phone, and according to some reviews, sometimes it does not work quite correctly - the absence of a heart rate monitor for additional data collection that would help more accurately identify the REM sleep phase makes itself felt.

Conclusion – a good option for fans of the brand and adherents of maximum integration of a smart bracelet with all kinds of third-party services.

Fitbit Flex

Fitbit was not a pioneer in creating smart alarm bracelets - Having entered the market with her gadget, she already had competitors in the person of Jawbone and Nike. The developer tried to take into account all the advantages and disadvantages of the first models, releasing the most adapted and correctly working device.

Fitbit decided to focus on cost in its initial One line - their first prototype was the cheapest and most accessible in its niche. Further, the Flex, Ultra and Shine model series were released, designed for all major groups of the population - from poor students to people willing to spend $ 150 on a convenient device. However, it was the Fitbit Flex that truly became a massive hit..

Basic characteristics:

• Weight – 10 grams;
• Dimensions – taken into account with a strap, minimum size 140 by 14 millimeters;
• Operating time – up to 5 days;
• Indication – LED;
• Sensors – accelerometer;
• Software – Android 4.3+, iOS 7+;
• Moisture protection is basic.

Among the main features, we note a rich set of accessories with two straps, as well as a special fastening system - the device itself is miniature and is inserted into the grooves of the strap, without being a solid gadget. Besides, the average cost of a bracelet of this model in online stores does not exceed $25.

Of the obvious disadvantages We note the not very developed software, which provides only basic monitoring, lack of integration with third-party services, inconvenient charging - to carry it out, you first need to remove the module from the strap, then insert it into a unique connector and, at the end of the process, install it back into the holder. In addition, the smart alarm clock does not take into account sleep phases (although it can work autonomously, without synchronizing with the phone) and works exactly according to the schedule, signaling with vibration that you are waking up.

Conclusion - a good option for those who are buying a smart bracelet for the first time and only need the most basic functions.

Other popular brands of bracelets

The following brands of smart alarm bracelets are quite widely represented on the market:

• Sony Smartband. Very strong smart bracelets with standard set features including a smart alarm clock. Ideal functionality is somewhat overshadowed by the high cost - from $130 and above;
• Popular SmartBand Intelligent. An excellent Chinese alternative to established electronics giants. The gadget has 3 sensors (accelerometer, microphone, heart rate monitor), a lot of useful functions, its own software, although it does not synchronize with third-party services. average cost fluctuates around $40 - an excellent investment;
• Nike FuelBand SE. High-quality materials, aggressive-sporty style, bright display and powerful vibration, reliable push-button control, large LED display - great amount benefits. Despite all its advantages, the smart alarm clock, according to numerous user reviews, does not work correctly and periodically goes off during the slow-wave sleep phase.

Sleep complexes

Large electronics manufacturers are increasingly offering people who care about their health entire systems for assessing and monitoring sleep quality. Such complexes represent a number of innovative gadgets with unique features and a range of sensors that record every aspect of your night's rest. This is more than just a smart alarm clock or an advanced fitness bracelet!

The cost of the above complexes usually starts from 10-12 thousand rubles, however, such a sleep monitoring system is clearly worthy of its money. The package usually includes:

• Central module. It is a complex device that combines the functions of an alarm clock, a night light and a container for light/temperature sensors;
• Mattress lining. An additional device that records any human movements;
• Heart rate monitor. This component reads the person's pulse and transmits them to the central module along with the pad;
• Software and instructions. Unique software analyzes all available information from sensors and stores it in the form of readings.

Key Features:

• Assistance in falling asleep by creating an optimal light and sound background based on data from sensors;
• Truly intelligent, correct awakening, taking into account the phases of rapid and slow sleep;
• Full control of your night's rest and the ability to subsequently analyze data that will help combat systemic disorders sleep.

Most often on the domestic market you can find sleep systems from Withings Aura, Sense-Sleep Pill, AXbo and Slepptracker. They differ significantly in cost and configuration, but have a similar principle of operation and operation.

Phone as a smart alarm clock

Another alternative to bracelet alarm clocks is sleep trackers installed on smartphones or tablets as applications. Thanks to them, a classic phone can become a smart alarm clock.

How it works? After installing the application, it gains access to the microphone and accelerometer of the device. When a person goes to bed, he must activate the program and place the smartphone next to him on the pillow. During sleep, the software analyzes your breathing and possible body movements through sensors, as a result of which it determines the phases of fast and slow sleep. When setting a signal for a certain time, the ideal interval for awakening will be selected, no later than the limit.

At the moment, dozens of similar programs are available both on Google Play and the Apple Store, both free, but with an abundance of advertising and some blocked functions, and paid ones, moreover, from famous manufacturers who have already proven themselves in the market for developing real gadgets and software for improved sleep. The most popular are Sleep Cycle, Runstatic, Nelurra.

General conclusion and conclusions

Smart alarm bracelets and similar gadgets, as well as specialized software, really help a person wake up in the morning at the optimal time. However, their effectiveness depends on a number of factors:

• Sufficient functionality of the gadget. Only some of their models are capable of intelligently monitoring sleep and choosing the right phase of awakening. The cheapest models do not have this feature;
• Compliance with operating standards. When using the device, you must fully adhere to all requirements for its operation, from proper wearing to the need for regular synchronization with the software;
• Correct setting. You should not use a gadget if you do not understand its settings and capabilities.

Enjoy your holiday, good sleep and easy awakening!

I've been interested in sleep trackers for a long time. These are apps and gadgets that monitor how you sleep, analyze your sleep stages, and wake you up in REM sleep, when your body is most ready to wake up. Similar applications simply flooded App Store and Google Play. This is what Google Play returns when you search for sleep trackers. There are dozens of applications, and it is not clear whether they work or not.

Not long ago I spent time with a dream, and after some time it ended in failure. My body didn’t want to get up so early, and I didn’t want to force myself to do it. So I decided to try something new.

I bought the very popular Sleep Cycle app, which was a pioneer in sleep monitoring, and woke up with it for a week. This is what came out of it.

For Sleep Cycle to track your sleep, you need to place it right next to you. Then he will catch all your sighs, snores, rolls over and night trips to the toilet. Yes, the future has already arrived. The developers suggest placing the phone near your head so that the microphone can pick up all the noise.

Now to the dream itself. During the week I went to bed at different time from 11 pm to 1 am, setting the alarm for 7 am each time. The point is that the app doesn't wake you up at exactly 7 o'clock. Depending on whether you are in REM sleep or not, it will try to wake you up within half an hour. This is exactly what his job is.

On the first day I woke up very refreshed. Overjoyed, I thought that I had solved my long-standing sleep problem and now my life would change once and for all. The next day I was met with failure. Half asleep, I turned off the alarm clock and slept for another hour and a half. Apparently, life will remain the same.

The next few days passed with varying degrees of success. I came to the conclusion that the application still works and the first couple of seconds of waking up go really well. The smoothly increasing melody also contributes to this. Thanks to her, you slowly, slowly come out of sleep and open your eyes. However, what to do next was unclear. The sensations are about the same as before: you definitely don’t want to get out of bed. And an application that warms you up instead of turning off the heating has not yet been invented.

Worst of all, the phone will have to be left connected to the charger overnight. I tried leaving the phone without charging a couple of times. 90% goes away overnight, that is, when charging the phone (iPhone 5) to the maximum, it will still be able to withstand the night.

Almost all sleep trackers also show graphs of how long each sleep phase lasted and what its quality was. Frankly speaking, I did not see any difference in well-being after a high-quality 97% sleep and a not so high-quality 69% sleep.

I haven't decided yet whether I will continue using sleep trackers. On the one hand, waking up is easier, but not much. Perhaps in long term they will be more useful. By the way, fans of “harmful waves” from the phone will also be unhappy, since the device will have to be kept near the head all night.

Should you try Sleep Cycle or another similar program for yourself? I think yes. Firstly, because they really help, albeit slightly; secondly, their effect may vary, and who knows, perhaps you will experience incredible benefits.

Perhaps I didn’t take something into account and sleep trackers are still much more useful? If so, then tell us about your experience using it in the comments!

Do you wake up out of sorts, angry at the world, moody or unrested? If you have a fitness bracelet or smartwatch with sleep monitoring, you can identify the cause. These devices collect your heart rate (HR) data and detect the smallest movements. Based on this information, a graph is built of how much time during the night you spend in the phase of light sleep (superficial, shallow), deep and “fast”.

Each of these stages of sleep is responsible for specific processes, so understanding how long each stage lasts can help identify and solve sleep problems. For simplicity, we will denote the REM sleep phase by the term REM (rapid eye movement, which is typical for this phase). Researchers distinguish as many as five stages of sleep - 1, 2, 3, 4 and REM.

Light sleep

The first stage of light sleep is intermittent, shallow sleep that does not allow the brain and body to rest. As a rule, it does not last long and is preparatory to the transition to the next phase. At this stage, you can still hear sounds around you, react to light stimuli, and feel some awareness. You understand where you are. The brain is already falling asleep, but you no longer feel that you are sleeping.

The second stage is direct light sleep. You are sleeping, but you can easily wake up from the stomping of your neighbors upstairs. However, this stage is very important because it healthy man spends more than half the night. During these hours, the body processes memories and emotions, and the metabolism engages in self-regulation. We can say that light sleep is a stage of maintenance by the body of itself. Breathing and heart rate usually become slightly lower than at rest.

Deep dream

Consists of two more stages: in the third, you become less responsive to external stimuli, breathing slows down and the muscles relax, the pulse also decreases and becomes stable. Deep sleep is very important for the body - the next stage is for the muscles to rest. The body is as busy as possible with self-healing. During this phase, the body begins to secrete growth hormone, which is used to “repair” cells. The immune system is strengthened. You don't see dreams.

Rapid eye movement (REM) sleep phase

If deep sleep is for the body, then REM is for the brain. During periods of REM sleep, the brain is very active, but the body remains calm. You are literally paralyzed while your brain tries its best. In this phase we dream and eyeballs begin to move quickly in different directions (hence the name). Heart rate increases, breathing becomes irregular, which indicates emotional activity.

REM is very important for emotions and memory - in this phase the brain “erases” everything that is not needed. Or maybe even “archives” - unfortunately, science still doesn’t know exactly where the unnecessary information ends up. In addition, the REM phase is when protein synthesis peaks at cellular level, which ensure the proper functioning of many processes in the body.

Why do we need to know all this?

The body does not experience each stage of sleep once a day and does not spend equal amount time. All phases occur cyclically several times a night, each cycle lasting an average of 1.5 hours. Sometimes cycles can be short, less than an hour, sometimes up to two hours. A typical night looks like this:

Cycle 1 : During light sleep, you plunge into the first stage and almost immediately move on to the second. Then comes the deep sleep phase, where you stay for a while, followed by 10 minutes in REM.

Cycle 2 : light sleep lasts a little longer than in the first cycle, deep sleep is still quite long (but less than before), REM lasts a little longer.

Cycle 3 : light sleep lasts even longer, deep sleep - less, REM - again quite long.

By the time the night is half past, as a rule, three full cycles have passed. Then the picture breaks down: cycles collapse, deep sleep begins to disappear completely, and the body alternates between light sleep and REM. On average, the light sleep phase occupies 50 to 60 percent of the night; fluctuations do not have much impact on how you feel when you wake up.

Deep sleep takes up between 10 and 25 percent of your total sleep, depending on your age. We have no way to influence its duration, that is, we cannot force the body to rest and recover. It will take care of itself, and as soon as it feels that everything is enough, it will stop entering this phase. During deep sleep, it is most difficult for the body to wake up, so it tries to deal with this phase as quickly as possible and switch to light sleep and REM.

Lack of deep sleep affects your well-being - you wake up still unrested. The duration of deep sleep is hampered by age (the older you are, the more difficult it is to fully rest), as well as pain, illness, apnea and other sleep disorders.

Narrowing of the upper respiratory tract leads to sleep apnea (to put it simply, hypoxia) and forces the body to wake up to resume ventilation. That is, a runny nose or awkward position they just won't let you rest at night. Deep sleep is also affected by shift work schedules - the body is less willing to fall into deep sleep during the day.

REM makes up about 20-25 percent of nighttime sleep and mostly occurs in the second half of the night. If you reduce the time for night sleep, then you seem to cut out this particular phase from it. A lack of REM makes you less focused, less focused, and can lead to memory problems. This is why it is important to get enough rest before any mental activity.

Many medications have a negative effect on REM sleep. For example, antidepressants can block REM by half. Too much REM sleep, on the other hand, is also not beneficial: the brain becomes too active, this overstrain leads to you waking up angry and dissatisfied with everything in the world. It also increases anxiety levels and worsens depression.

"Rise and shine!"

Of course, all the data presented is relevant for the average person, especially the numbers. To get more or less similar parameters, use a fitness tracker app to analyze the data of other users of your gender, age and with the same level of activity - as a rule, this information is available. Compare your indicators with the average - this will be your tool for regulating the duration of your healthy sleep.

We are all different, and our needs for rest are also different. If 6 hours of rest is enough for you, you do not take medications that affect sleep, you wake up rested, alert, full of energy in body and mind - write down your sleep schedule as a standard. We cannot influence the phases and stages directly, but we can shorten or increase the duration of the night - this is exactly what the sleep monitoring function in gadgets is for.

The more the pace of life around us increases, the less time remains for healthy sleep. Many people today do not have enough 24 hours in a day to do all the necessary things. In such a situation, most people sacrifice sleep: it’s not in vain that jokes about chronic “I don’t get enough sleep” have become one of the most popular topics of Internet memes among office workers and creative class.

The problem is obvious: people work a lot and sleep very little. A logical question arises - if we cannot afford “quantity” in the matter of sleep, then maybe it’s really possible to somehow improve its quality? Modern technologies answer this question very optimistically. It turns out that you can and should work on the quality of your sleep. AND best helpers in this matter are just sleep trackers – or “sleep trackers”.

You can learn about the most popular models of these night devices from our review. It includes modern mobile applications, individual professional sleep trackers and trackers built into fitness bracelets. However, before moving on to a review of specific gadgets, let's look at the hardware: how can high-tech devices overcome insomnia and a difficult morning rise?

Benefits and functions of modern sleep trackers

Modern sleep trackers can teach us to go to bed and get up on time, help us get on the path to fighting snoring and morning grogginess, some of them even monitor the influence of the environment on their sleeping owner.

Firstly, it is very important that these trackers make it possible to constantly analyze the quality of sleep. After all, at night we don’t just lie with eyes closed and a disconnected brain! Sleep can be deep and superficial (active). In the case of deep sleep, when a person is in a real “blackout,” our body and brain rest. But active sleep is less useful in terms of relaxation: we toss and turn, constantly wake up and hardly feel much rest. A good tracker reports every morning: how many hours did you sleep “quality”, and how many in vain. The most advanced models can even point to the causes of sleep problems. All you have to do is remove from your life the factors that interfere with deep sleep: the usual evening glass of beer, late work at the computer, the noise of a neighbor behind the wall...

“At one time, I realized that I needed to limit myself in alcohol with the help of the sleep tracker in Jawbone UP. After each drinking session, it gave me terrible indicators of deep sleep, and in the morning I really got up exhausted. Now I have removed this factor from my life risk and began to sleep much better,"- writes our author and friend Dr. Anatom.

How do these devices differ? active sleep from deep? There are several analysis systems. The most primitive is the “sound sensor”. Miniature, ultra-sensitive voice recorders record all your nightly snoring, grunting and turning from side to side. Make a lot of noise - it means you are sleeping actively! A more reliable example is accelerometers and heart rate monitors. The first ones can be attached to the sleeper’s wrist or on a pillow, and even the smallest movements of a person are read. The more you move, the worse you sleep. With heart rate monitors, everything is also clear: they usually complement altimeters or sound sensors and make their readings more accurate. These sensors record all increases in heart rate that accompany the exit from the “deep sleep” stage.

The second useful feature of sleep trackers is in recording symptoms bad sleep– snoring and night delirium. This is where audio recording comes into play again: sound sensors “record” your sleep all night, transferring sound files to your smartphone. A special application analyzes the received data and “puts into baskets” attacks of snoring, delirium, and even sleepwalking behavior. A nice bonus: in the morning you can listen to all your “night songs”. Of course, trackers will not cure problems with breathing and nerves. But they are the ones who will make it clear whether it’s time to contact a therapist and neurologist if the problem with snoring and sleepy delirium is completely neglected...

Another unique feature that sleep trackers have given the world is "smart alarm clock". Have you noticed that on some days you manage to get up easily, but on others you can’t even be woken up by a gun? The reason for this confusion is the same stages of sleep. If you hear the alarm clock ringing in the “deep stage”, you are unlikely to be able to wake up once or twice. Another thing is active sleep! At this moment, your body is ready to rise and you will not feel completely lethargic. “Smart alarm clocks” monitor this moment. True, you cannot set a specific time to get up here: the alarm clock needs to be set to a half-hour range in which you want to get up! The efficiency of this system has been proven, however, it also has its pitfalls. So, if during the specified period the stage of “active sleep” still does not occur, then the gadget will wake you up at the last minute of the marked range.

The most advanced sleep trackers analyze not only how you slept, but under what conditions did you do it?. Already now you can find gadgets equipped with sensors for determining the level of room temperature, the amount of dust in the air and the percentage of oxygen or CO2... You know the simple rule: “with open window“get enough sleep twice as fast”? It's true: invisible external factors can cause a nightmare in every sense of the word “nightmare.”

Well, the final “usefulness” of night trackers is: This is the “sleep trainer” mode. We are no longer talking about a specific sensor, but about complex software. Like the latest models of fitness bracelets, sleep trackers have long learned to give detailed recommendations to their owners. With their help, you will keep your sleep diary and write down the contents of your nightly dreams before they fly out of your head. Sleep trackers will advise you how many hours before night you can eat and how to cope with insomnia more easily. It’s not for nothing that programs for such gadgets are written with the active participation of professional doctors and psychologists.

So, we told you about the benefits of sleep trackers. It's time to list the most popular devices in which these functions are found.

Sleep trackers for smartphones: choose from three applications

Mobile application manufacturers have long proven that any smartphone can be turned into a simple sleep tracker. Today, there are about fifty (!) such services available in the Apple and Android stores. All of these are paid programs that use accelerometers built into the smartphone.

Let's take a look at the most popular representatives of this software field: Runtastic Sleep Better, Sleep As Android and Sleep Cycle. They work on the same principle. The phone with the connected program should be placed on the pillow next to the sleeping person’s head. Built-in motion sensor during the night it will analyze your actions and separate “deep sleep” from “active”. This system has three disadvantages. Firstly, the sensors of all three programs “go crazy” if there is a second person or a cat in the bed. Secondly, you will have to keep the phone plugged in - otherwise by the morning you will not be counted from 20 to 60 percent charge. Thirdly... no one has canceled electromagnetic radiation. Keeping a mobile phone next to your head all night is a dubious pleasure for a person who already lives in the world of technology!

But what profit will we get if we still agree to radiation, a dead smartphone battery and kick our wife out of bed onto the rug? Users of such programs put the “smart alarm clock” first: it works well for all of the “Big Three”. But what else makes customers happy?

Runtastic Sleep Better, for example, analyzes the influence of alcohol, coffee and sports training on sleep quality. Every evening he asks the owner what His Majesty did during the day, and for several weeks he looks for a connection between lifestyle and the depth of sleep. He also monitors the lunar phases and warns which one is better to go to bed early, and which one - later. In the application settings, you can select a ringtone, adjust the volume, turn vibration on or off, and select the interval during which the alarm will sound. In addition, this is the first program with its own dream diary. A pleasant bonus for those who get upset when in the evening they cannot remember what they dreamed about yesterday! The application has a paid and free version, the average rating in markets is 4.0.

Sleep As Android also received a user rating of 4.0 on the Market, although the creators put much more into it creative ideas. Even the format of “resetting” the alarm is of interest. For the laziest sleepyheads, there is a mode for turning off the signal by solving a mathematical problem, touch “counting sheep” (you need to tap on ten sheep running across the screen) and photographing a special QR code, which is proposed to be hung away from the bed!!! The application has a “lullaby” mode: you put headphones in your ears and listen to the sounds of nature until you fall asleep! Then the melody is automatically turned off by the smart accelerometer. Sleep As Android lets you share “night reports” on social media, detects snoring outbreaks, and is compatible with Pebble Watch. An important partnership: smartwatches use more accurate accelerometers and cool software, so this alliance benefits the hero of our review.

And one more program - the most popular Sleep Cycle. It costs less than competitors - only 1 dollar! Maybe this is where the most high rating– 4.5 stars on Play Google. In addition to the “smart alarm clock” and sleep analyzer, we find here a function for recording “night sounds”. This option distinguishes snoring from the purring of a cat, and the sound of a truck passing outside the window from a doorbell. What else can Sleep Cycle do? Yes, everything is the same as its competitors: it keeps a dream diary, monitors the effect of coffee and diet on sleep, except that it does not monitor the phases of the moon, like Runtastic.

This is what they are – mobile trackers. Available, cheap, easy to manage. One request: check if they will work with your smartphone before downloading! Otherwise, cases of unsuccessful switching in such cases are not uncommon. And compared to the background of more professional gadgets, their capabilities fade somewhat... for example, in comparison with the same fitness trackers.

Fitness bracelets - sleep trackers on your wrist

Compared with mobile applications, fitness trackers have several notable advantages. The reason lies in the form factor of the bracelet itself. Firstly, the location of the sensor on the hand provides more accurate readings accelerometer. Unlike a mobile phone, which needs to be placed on a pillow, the bracelet will not fall on the floor, does not count unnecessary movements and will be able to notice the smallest vibrations of your body. Secondly, users like “smart alarm clocks” more due to the lack of sound signal. If you are not aware, most fitness bracelets wake up their owners with using easy vibrations. This is a guaranteed remedy that will not disturb your wife’s peace, unlike a screaming mobile alarm clock. Thirdly, unlike smartphones, many bracelets are already able to count pulse and body temperature, which are also “sent” to the general report on the results of the night.

So, the advantages of such gadgets are clear. Now let's move on to brief overview specific models. We will try to understand which of them is better at “monitoring sleep”, based on reviews from real customers.

First, let's decide on the price range. The standard price for such a device is figures of 3000-6000 rubles. But we will start our comparison with the most budget “night model” - Xiaomi mi Band (from RUB 1,700).

This is a standard Asian bracelet that is very popular among people. On almost all markets, users give it a rating of 4.5 stars. It doesn't have an advanced heart rate monitor feature or anything fancy: it just measures activity, counts calories, monitors sleep, and gives healthy lifestyle tips. But it costs less than its competitors - hence its popularity. Among the advantages that interest us are: long work batteries (record 720 hours, that's almost a month on one charge), convenient strap adjustment, the presence of a Russian-language application and water resistance - it can be used as a swimming tracker.

The disadvantages of the model that users note are the inaccurate operation of the pedometer, a meager set of straps and the massiveness of the gadget. But we are interested in sleep monitoring. What kind of feedback do we find on this topic?

Anton Korolev found the following jamb:

"After about 22 hours, any lack of activity is perceived as sleep. For example, if you sit at the computer, even playing games, the bracelet “thinks” that you are sleeping. Sometimes even deep sleep. This does not in any way affect the operation of the “smart” alarm clock, it simply spoils the final statistics when accounting for sleep."

He also finds fault with the quality of the alarm clock:

“In the vast majority of cases, a smart alarm clock will wake you up earlier than you are used to waking up. Therefore, the rule of internal discipline works here; if you did not get up and continued to doze, this will negate the benefits of using this functionality.”

But other users, as one, praise the sleep monitoring and alarm clock. Many people even buy Xiaomi band for the sake of an alarm clock.

Kirill Nartov writes that “The bracelet wakes you up very insistently, it really infuriates you)) You won’t sleep with it.”

And Nail Tabaev is also happy with the purchase:

“It’s cool that there are 3 alarm clocks: if you want to sleep at least three times a day, it wakes you up correctly. So correctly that every day I get up in good spirits and not at all groggy.”

Xiaomi is sorted out. Now we’ll tell you about a real bestseller - Jawbone Up. It is the devices from the Jabon company that have established the reputation of the best sleep researchers. The cost of Jawbone UP ranges from 3,990 rubles. But the user rating of this gadget is significantly lower : 2.5 on Yandex.Market and 3.0 on Amazon. True, all user comments do not relate to sleep monitoring. They criticize frequent breakdowns, bad batteries and poor water protection. As for the sleep tracker and smart alarm clock, on the contrary, it is praised. Of the 20 customer reviews we read, 12 (!) noted it as the main advantage of the device. The only complaint on this topic concerned the fact that the gadget does not always catch the moment the owner goes to sleep. But in that case, approximate time falling asleep can be noted manually in the morning.

Sergei Kuriy summarizes:

“As for me, apart from a smart alarm clock that wakes you up with vibration, this thing does not bring anything more useful. The device will not determine what exactly you were doing, running, cycling, swimming or pressing iron.”

Martin is more positive in his assessment:

“No matter what time I go to bed - at 23.00 or at 02.30, in the interval of +-10 minutes, I always get up at 6.45 (I walk the dog even on weekends) _sleepy_. I used to get up on the alarm clock, but I got up without waking up - I couldn’t find my pants, "I could hit the frame or forget to open the door when leaving the bedroom. Now Javbon saved me from these problems."

We started with the most budget-friendly one, and we’ll end with one of the most expensive and latest models – “smart watches.” Basis Peak. They cost about 20 thousand rubles, and, according to Basis marketers, they monitor sleep better than their competitors. On the Internet you can find the results of official testing of Basis Peak in comparison with professional medical devices. So the indicators of the Basis and the real polysomnograph coincided by 92%! In addition, Basis has more comprehensive weekly sleep statistics and even compares the quality of rest on weekdays and weekends. This is generally a very advanced gadget. Not only in terms of sleep. Unlike Xiomi and Javbon, he can count his pulse and measure his temperature.

There is only one BUT. Such a big problem. For its price of 20 thousand, this gadget does not know how to... wake up its owner. It stupidly has neither a smart nor a stupid alarm clock. This infuriates and disappoints many users who buy a fitness tracker with a sleep function and do not find in it the service available in cheaper gadgets! Hence the 3-star rating on Amazon and a sea of ​​negative comments.

Amanda writes:

“I’m sincerely looking forward to the next firmware. This bracelet suits me with everything. Except that the price is a little high. But the lack of a smart alarm clock is very annoying. I have to “start” it on my smartphone, and such duplication of functions cannot but irritate...”

To summarize: In order to purchase a good fitness tracker with sleep analysis and a smart alarm clock, you don’t have to spend a lot of money. As practice shows, buyers are not very picky about the accuracy of sensors and are more interested in practical functions. The most popular service in this area is a smart alarm clock. As our review showed - good alarm clock can be found in both jawbone and Xia Omi. So our respects go to these devices.

Monofunctional sleep systems

We cannot ignore “sleep trackers” in their pure form.

Those who like to sleep in the morning and for whom the need to get up early becomes a real tragedy will come in handy with an excellent device that appeared on the market not so long ago. This is a smart alarm clock that makes waking up in the morning easy and comfortable. It is this interesting invention of mankind that will be discussed in the article.

When is the best time to wake up?

Rest time does not pass monotonously. In a dream, one phase replaces another. The best option, according to scientists, is awakening during light phase. If the alarm clock wakes you up during a period when sleep is deep, you may feel exhausted and as if there was no night's rest at all.

But there is also an option that, having slept just a little, a person is charged with a lot of energy and has a great time throughout his entire next day. This, as a rule, happens precisely because he woke up quickly. It’s good if a person can do it himself. Well, if this doesn’t work out, then an excellent modern device comes to the rescue.

Smart alarm clock for iPhone

An alarm clock can be made, for example, as a separate device connected to a gadget on Android or iPhone. But it can also be built into mobile device or special so-called fitness bracelets.

If we're talking about about your smartphone, you usually need to download special applications for it in order to activate the smart alarm clock. Android, for example, has an excellent option called Smart Alarm Clock.

Smart Sleep Time app

You can set Sleep Time on your iPhone. The application functions as follows: the alarm clock is set and placed next to the pillow. The screen should be facing down. The phone will read the person’s movements and thus determine the onset of the sleep phase. When it's getting closer required time to awaken, it is activated. Thus, the owners say, a smart alarm clock with sleep phases guarantees a pleasant morning with a feeling of good spirits and good mood.

Smart app Pillow

Another great app is Pillow. Sleep tracking occurs using special sensors: a microphone and an accelerometer. In this way, movements during sleep and breathing are monitored. There are paid and free version applications. But main function works in both of them. When the alarm goes off, the volume starts from zero and gradually reaches 70%. If you touch the screen with your hand at this time, the volume will decrease and after a few seconds the sound will disappear. But the mechanism will work again in ten minutes in the same mode.

Smart Alarm Clock app

For Android, as mentioned, you can download Smart Alarm Clock. The application works in much the same way as the options described above. The following functions are available for it:

• you can independently choose in which phase of sleep you want to wake up;
• all sounds are recorded;
• statistics and their phases are kept;
• special music is offered for falling asleep, as well as for waking up;
• weather forecast available.

Smart app WakeUp OrDie! Alarm Clock

This application is also designed for Android. He is considered one of the most unsuccessful. Usually, a smart alarm clock with sleep phases, trying to wake up its owner, falls silent and lets you sleep a little more, and then announces itself again. But that definitely doesn't describe WakeUp OrDie! Alarm Clock. The device will ring until some green monster in it disappears. And to do this, you need to shake your smartphone thoroughly.

There are virtually no settings in this application, the owners note. All you can do is set the required time, turn on the vibrating function, and also select a gradually increasing melody.

Smart application "Buddhist"

This is an interesting application. When activated, it seems that it is not an electronic device that wakes you up in the morning, but a real person, only a stranger. To get this unusual opportunity, you first register in a special service, and then set the required time. Now you can go to bed.

When that “X” moment comes, another registered user of the same service will wake up “Sonya”. In almost all cases, calls for one and the other party are free. The only exceptions are calls for those who are in roaming.

Stationary alarm clocks

The most common of these types are alarm clocks from Axbo. The gadget has the shape of a box with a processor built inside. It comes with a special wristband that allows you to read your heart rate during sleep. Thus, the smart alarm clock seems to sense the sleep phase. The device operates from the network, and understanding its essence is not particularly difficult.

But those who still doubt the need to purchase this watch should first try downloading a free or paid application to their smartphone. Then a more accurate opinion about him may be formed. Users respond well to the device; it’s easy to figure out on your own.

Well, those who decide to purchase this smart alarm clock should prepare +/- twelve thousand rubles. This is the amount it will cost to purchase the device.

Fitness bracelet with smart alarm clock or watch?

Not so long ago, these small and convenient gadgets quickly burst into our lives. However, there is still no clear opinion on how necessary they are. The device helps you actually keep your physical health. It can count the steps taken during the day, the meals eaten and the calories burned during exercise when playing sports.

By putting such a bracelet on your hand and going to the gym, you don’t have to worry about missing an important call that you find out about too late, or receiving an unnoticed SMS message. The gadget has many built-in sensors that allow you to perform a variety of functions.

So, your heartbeat will now be under control, thanks to which you can decide when the training should be intensified and when it is better to stop and complete it. But the main thing that interests us is a smart alarm clock. The bracelet uses it to track sleep phases in the same way as in other gadgets. It is placed on the arm and goes to bed. The ergonomic design makes the device almost invisible, which is very important when sleeping. You will hardly feel it on your hand. But for particularly susceptible natures, this need can be bypassed. After all, a gadget tablet can be easily attached to your night pajamas. And it will continue to read just as easily necessary information to wake up its owner at the most appropriate time.

The price range for devices varies greatly depending on the functionality that is built into them. However, by now almost all, even the simplest devices, have a smart alarm clock sensor. Devices can be purchased in different price ranges, the cost ranges from a thousand rubles to sixteen thousand and above.

A significant advantage is that the bracelet is waterproof, which makes it possible to wear it in the pool or while taking a shower.

A more serious device of this type is a watch with a smart alarm clock. They have impressive functionality and a spectacular, beautiful design. However, at the same time, the watch is more bulky. Therefore, sleeping with them may seem problematic and uncomfortable for some people. And the cost of these devices is much higher than bracelets. Thus, the price range ranges from two and a half thousand to sixty-five thousand rubles and above.

Conclusion

It only remains to add that thanks to this device you can normalize your sleep. Of course, you can achieve this without using even the best smart alarm clock, but on your own. But the device can help in mastering this technique. And if you go to bed on time, you can guarantee yourself a sound, healthy sleep and a soft awakening. After this the whole day will be excellent health, and much more can be done.