Apple is recruiting participants for a new beta program to improve Beddit’s app

Apple is recruiting participants for a new beta program for Beddit, the sleep tracker acquired by Apple in May 2017. Participants will receive early access to new versions of the Beddit app before they are released to the general public. Participants will provide feedback to Apple, including app use, app settings, sleep results, and other diagnostic information. Additionally, participants may be asked to provide feedback through surveys. Participants must be located in the United States, own a Beddit Sleep Monitor model 3.5, and be between the ages of 22 and 75. 

Apple has increased its involvement with sleep since the launch of “Bedtime” in iOS10. Additionally, Apple now allows users to schedule a Do Not Disturb mode, limit time users spend in apps, and schedule a Night Shift mode to reduce blue light emitted from the phone screen. Although Apple’s patent activity in the Consumer Sleep Technology sector has increased in the last 3 years, the activity primarily focuses on smart alarm technology for its wearables. Will additional features in the Beddit app increase Apple’s position relative to other companies, including Fitbit?