Apple’s Beddit sleep tracker gets more-polished look, new app

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The resigned Beddit 3.5 (left) looks more like an Apple product than the earlier version.
The resigned Beddit 3.5 (left) looks more like an Apple product than the earlier version.
Photo: Apple

A new version of the Beddit sleep monitor launched today. This is the first version since Apple acquired the company making this accessory last year, and the result is better  hardware and software, though few new features.

The hardware consists of a sensor strip which stays permanently wrapped around your mattress, ready to record your movements while you’re asleep. It’s sensitive enough to detect heart rate, breathing, snoring, and bedroom temperature and humidity

What’s new in Beddit 3.5

The original Beddit 3 was wrapped in cloth, while version 3.5 appears to have a soft plastic casing. It’s still very thin: just 2mm.

With today’s release of the new iteration, Apple’s webpage for this accessory was updated to say “When you set daily bedtime and sleep time goals, Beddit motivates you to achieve them with tip notifications like morning results, bedtime reminders, and weekly reports.” Notifications, reminders, and nudges can come from the associated Apple Watch application.

The data this accessory gathers can be automatically entered into the iOS Health app.

There are enough changes that there’s a new version of the iOS software specifically for this model called Beddit (for Model 3.5). Just be aware, this requires iOS 12. Those who have the older version should use Beddit (for Model 3.0). It only requires iOS 9.

Speaking of which, the older version has been discontinued. But Beddit 3.5 is available on Apple’s website for the same $149.95 price. The timing of this release seems calculated to make this a holiday gift for Apple fans with sleep problems.

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