iOS 10 Sleep Features: Bedtime Reminders, Gentle Wakeups & Tracking

Improve Sleep with iOS 10's Bedtime Feature

If you consistently find it difficult to achieve a full night’s rest, the Bedtime feature introduced in iOS 10 could be a valuable tool. By setting a desired wake-up time and specifying your required hours of sleep, iOS provides bedtime reminders, gentler alarm options, and fundamental sleep tracking via the Health application.

Setting Up Your Sleep Routine

To begin configuring your sleep schedule, launch the Clock app and navigate to the newly added "Bedtime" tab.

Upon first accessing this tab, iOS will guide you through a series of straightforward setup steps. Notably, the entire Clock app interface transitions to a dark mode.

This darker interface is particularly beneficial when used in a dimly lit bedroom, minimizing screen brightness and reducing eye strain. It’s even more comfortable than utilizing Night Shift mode, which is also recommended for nighttime reading.

Initiate the setup process by tapping the "Get Started" button.

Defining Wake-Up Time and Schedule

The initial step involves establishing your preferred wake-up time. After inputting this, proceed by tapping "Next."

Next, indicate the days of the week on which you want the alarm to activate. All days are selected by default; simply deselect those on which you wish to disable the alarm. Confirm your selections by tapping "Next."

Specifying Sleep Duration and Reminders

Now, define the number of hours of sleep you aim to obtain each night, then tap "Next." Rest assured, these settings can be modified later if needed.

iOS will then deliver a nightly bedtime reminder in the form of a notification. Choose your preferred notification time and tap "Next."

Choosing Alarm Sounds

The Bedtime feature incorporates a selection of new alarm sounds designed to be less jarring than traditional options. However, existing alarm sounds – including custom ones – remain available for those who prefer a more assertive wake-up call.

Preview each sound by tapping it. Select your desired sound and then tap "Next" to continue.

Finalizing and Managing Your Routine

Completing these steps finalizes the setup of your new bedtime routine. Simply tap "Save" to return to the main "Bedtime" tab within the Clock app.

The "Bedtime" tab now displays a dial illustrating your bedtime, wake time, and anticipated sleep duration. Adjust your routine by sliding the bedtime or wake icons on the dial. The sleep hours will update accordingly.

Further customization options are accessible by tapping "Options" in the top-left corner.

Bedtime Options and Sleep History

The "Bedtime Options" screen allows you to modify the days of the week the alarm is active, adjust the bedtime reminder time, and select your wake-up sound. You can also independently control the volume of the wake-up sound, separate from your device’s overall volume settings.

Returning to the "Bedtime" tab, you’ll find a brief, seven-day history of your sleep patterns. This analysis is based on your reported sleep activity and configured routine.

It doesn't actively track movement during sleep like some fitness trackers, but it provides a useful overview of your sleep consistency. Tap the "More history" link for a more detailed view.

This directs you to the full Health app, where you can examine your sleep history by day, week, month, or year. Be aware that this will transition you to the Health app’s interface, which features a brighter background.

Benefits of the Bedtime Feature

Although not a highly sophisticated sleep tracker, the Bedtime feature is beneficial for individuals who rely on their iOS devices as an alarm clock. The gentle wake-up sounds, independent volume control, basic sleep history, and dark mode for the Clock app all contribute to a more pleasant and restful experience, even without the bedtime reminders.