CES 2023: Could a Brainband Improve Your Sleep? [video]

Are you getting enough sleep each night? If not, you are in good company; the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that about 1 in 3 U.S. adults usually gets less than the amount of sleep they need. The CDC notes that this lack of sleep is linked to various conditions and chronic diseases, including depression, obesity, heart disease, and diabetes. And what about the quality of the sleep you get? A recent survey by Gallup found that about 2 in 3 Americans report that they don’t get high-quality sleep. The FRENZ Brainband by Earable may be able to help remedy some of these sleep issues.

Billed as “the world’s first wearable that can track and stimulate brain activities via bone conduction speakers,” the device is designed to “facilitate better quality sleep, focus, and relaxation.” Let’s unpack that. The AI-powered band works by capturing multiple biometric signals: EEG (brain signals), EMG (facial muscle activity), eye tracking (including REM), heart rate, and SpO2 (oxygen saturation). The band, which has a combination of silicon and gold-plated dry electrodes, also tracks head position and head motions, as well as the wearer’s breathing rhythm.

With this data, the Brainband, well, talks you to sleep. Using Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) — aka talking therapy — the band delivers customized content, including pink and white noise, through behind-the-ear bone-conduction speakers. As described, the tiny speakers sit behind the ear bone and emit barely audible sound, which shuts down when you sleep, and returns if you wake. All of this is intended to boost deep sleep. And forget about an alarm clock — an AI algorithm wakes you up at the right time. An app offers a sleep report, advice on timing naps, and more. During the day, you can also wear the band to track brainwaves and bio-vital signals.

The big question: does it work? A clinical trial that was conducted by the band’s makers found that on average people fell asleep 19 minutes faster with the Brainband. The second big question: how much will a Brainband set you back? The device is available for pre-order until March 8th, 2023 for the promotional price of $350. After that, the price goes up to $490.

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