SleepGuard works with smartwatch sensors for a good night's sleep

Software developed in the UK and China could soon help people get a good night’s sleep.

SleepGuard software is said to take advantage of sensor data provided by smartwatches to monitor wearers' sleep patterns. SleepGuard is also claimed to estimate sleep quality and provide users with advice on how to sleep better.

In use, SleepGuard tracks non-biomedical factors such as body movements, sounds related to sleep disorders, and ambient lighting. So far, the device has been tested on 15 study participants and results show that the software can estimate sleep-quality at a similar accuracy to consumer-grade sleep monitors.

The research team from Lancaster University and Northwest University, China hope the technology can help users develop a more comprehensive understanding of their sleep and enable them to take actions to improve sleep quality.

According to Lancaster University, simple recommendations for getting improved sleep could involve altering the lighting in the bedroom, addressing noise, changing postures and also hand positions.