The company has been testing the new feature over the past few months at undisclosed sites near its Cupertino, Calif.-based headquarters. Before launching new health and fitness features for its smartwatch, Apple completes various testing in locations including labs and chambers designed to mimic weather conditions, Bloomberg reports.
Apple currently offers sleep analysis on the iPhone’s Health app, which uses the device’s alarm clock function to track hours slept. The app can also integrate data from third-party sleep monitors.
A sleep-tracking function would place the Apple Watch in closer competition with Fitbit, which has been expanding its sleep tracking features for years. However, Fitbits feature a longer battery life, which supports the device’s ability to monitor the user’s sleep each night without being charged. Currently, the Apple Watch battery is designed to operate for one day before needing a recharge, while Fitbits are marketed to last up to one week per charge.
Apple also made a stir among the sleep tracking market in May 2017 when it acquired Beddit, a Finnish startup company that makes sleep-tracking accessories.
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