Many of us struggle with sleep, even when we’re consciously trying to prioritize it. Understanding the nuances of our sleep patterns can be tricky, especially without complex and potentially expensive equipment. That’s where SleepSpace, an AI-powered app, aims to provide clarity – analyzing sleep patterns and offering personalized recommendations through an AI chatbot, “Dr. Snooze,” with the option of consulting with human sleep experts.
What is SleepSpace and How Does It Work?
Founded in 2009 by Dan Gartenberg (who is both the company’s CEO and a sleep advisor at CPAP.com), SleepSpace initially focused solely on sleep. The app’s AI features were launched in 2022. It focuses on providing a holistic view of sleep, integrating with wearables like Apple Watch, Oura, and Whoop if available. However, the app can function effectively even without these devices, relying solely on a smartphone’s microphone and motion detector.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to getting started:
- Download and Setup: Download SleepSpace for iOS or Android, create an account, and connect your wearables or HealthKit/Google Fit if desired.
- Track Your Sleep: Before bed, start a sleep session and place your phone on your nightstand or mattress. The microphone tracks sounds and the motion detector monitors movement.
- Analyze and Consult: In the morning, review your personalized sleep score and ask the AI chatbot for science-based recommendations. The app uses machine learning models for feedback, but does not rely on large language models (LLMs) like Gemini. If the chatbot cannot provide sufficient answers, users with a subscription can consult with a human sleep expert within 48 hours.
“By keeping the bot strictly focused on sleep, we reduce the risk of hallucinations and misinformation, ensuring a high standard of accuracy,” Gartenberg explains. “When the AI cannot provide sufficient depth, a human expert steps in within 48 hours, adding an extra layer of personalized care” and a level of accuracy in sleep tracking.
SleepSpace utilizes sleep staging algorithms trained on polysomnography (sleep study) data, providing users with a comprehensive overview of their sleep patterns.
Key Findings from a Weeklong Trial
The reviewer tested SleepSpace without any additional devices, relying solely on the app’s functionality. They found the app surprisingly effective in tracking sleep, even with its inconsistencies. The app provided valuable data points, including:
- Number of Awakenings: Four per night on average.
- Sleep Quality: 78%.
- Wake-Up Time: Always after the initial alarm.
- Energy Peaks and Dips: Predictions that were generally accurate.
This information helped the reviewer realize they were more restless than they initially thought, despite knowing they were a light sleeper. The AI analysis also highlighted the impact of late-afternoon coffee, prompting them to eliminate it from their routine.
Should You Try SleepSpace?
The review concludes that SleepSpace offers a valuable service, particularly for those not already tracking their sleep health. It’s a personal and actionable tool that can provide meaningful insights into sleep patterns, energy levels, and potential sleep disruptors. By offering both AI-powered analysis and the option for human consultation, SleepSpace aims to provide a personalized and accurate approach to understanding and improving sleep. The reviewer recommends trying it to gain a better understanding of your individual sleep needs and habits.
