Consumer electronic manufacturer Bose recently filed a patent application for a sleep system that uses biometric sensors and ambient sound sensing to trigger an alarm and wake a user up at the optimal time within a predetermined window. Potential embodiments for the biometric sensors include a contactless laser-based system, a bedding pad, and earbuds. So far, Bose does not have any sleep-related products; its earlier noise-masking Sleepbuds were discontinued after various issues. The manufacturer also does not sell biometric products or wearables. An alarm system is a good way for Bose to branch out into more direct-contact sleep products, as most of the company's sleep patents and applications so far are directed towards environmental control, while still utilizing its well-known audio technology.
Fitbit, which was acquired by Google in 2019, is a leader in consumer sleep technology; however, the wearable company is completely absent in the smart alarm IP category. This makes it an attractive area for development for other wearable manufacturers, as well as tech companies such as Bose. Apple in contrast has a number of smart alarm patents, which may give an indication of what consumers can expect from its next Watch model. Keep track of continued movement in the Consumer Sleep sector with the Magic Number® Patent Radian®.
