Apple relies on smart mattress sensors for sleep tracking

Apple has been working for years to expand its health and sleep technologies. A newly granted patent reveals that the company wants to use the mattress as a body temperature sensor. The goal is to more accurately track menstrual cycles and better monitor overall health.

Since acquiring the Finnish sleep-tracking company Beddit in 2017, Apple has been looking for ways to improve sleep tracking. One result of this is the Apple Watch's Sleep Score feature. But work on bed-based solutions isn't over yet. Apple has already filed two patents for this technology, one of which has now been reissued. It shows how sensors in mattresses or bedding could be used to continuously measure body temperature while sleeping.

Sensors in the mattress

The current patent, titled "In-bed temperature array for menstrual cycle tracking," describes a temperature measuring array that is to be placed on a mattress, presumably under a sheet. The sensors record the temperature over extended periods of time. This continuous measurement serves as the basis for identifying changes that may indicate the start of the menstrual cycle. Apple explains in the patent that the temperature must be compared over several periods of use. An ovulation day can be estimated when the temperature is at least 0.1 degrees Celsius higher than at two or more other points in time since recording began. It is also emphasized that the temperature should be monitored over the entire course of a single night. Ovulation can also be detected when the temperature is at least 0.2 degrees Celsius higher than a previously recorded maximum.

Image: US Patent and Trademark Office / Apple

Why Apple relies on temperature measurement

Temperature data is considered an important indicator of the menstrual cycle, but also of general health. Apple points out that temperature measurements have so far mostly only been taken sporadically – for example, in cases of illness or as part of natural family planning. A measuring system in bed, on the other hand, could ensure that temperature is continuously monitored without it having to be part of an additional routine. An accompanying patent titled "Flexible temperature measuring devices for measuring body temperature" already describes how such sensors could be integrated not only into beds, but also into clothing, furniture, or smartwatches. The goal is to record physiological data such as temperature, heart rate, or blood oxygen more easily and more frequently.

Focus on the menstrual cycle

The menstrual cycle is considered a key health indicator, but has not yet been sufficiently researched. Apple points out that accurate recording of this data can help not only determine fertility but also provide clues to general health conditions. Studies on topics such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) have shown how closely cycle data can be linked to general health. The new patent is attributed to five inventors, including Zijing Zeng and Joseph M. Schmitt, who have previously worked on temperature sensors for the iPhone. James C. Clements, who was involved in the first patent for general temperature measurements, is also among them. This shows that Apple is relying on experienced developers who have been working with sensors and health functions for a long time.

What the patent application means

Apple's refiling and re-granting a patent doesn't necessarily mean immediate implementation. This often happens for procedural reasons, such as when a patent expires or minor adjustments are made. In this case, there don't appear to be any significant changes, but the renewed confirmation shows that Apple hasn't abandoned the idea. So far, the U.S. Patent Office hasn't published any new updates to the first patent. Nevertheless, it's clear that Apple is continuously pursuing the topic and considering how to integrate sleep, health, and technology even more closely.

Apple's Vision: Technology that works in the background

With the new patent, Apple continues its strategy of connecting everyday life with invisible health-monitoring technologies. A mattress that measures body temperature could more accurately track menstrual cycles while also providing valuable data on general health. While it remains unclear if or when such a product will come to market, the patent clarifies the direction: Apple is consistently committed to seamlessly integrating health technology into everyday life. The best products for you: Our Amazon Storefront offers a wide selection of accessories, including those for HomeKit. (Image: Shutterstock / New Africa)