Rival sleep tracking functions could give Apple Watch an edge against Garmin, Oura, and Whoop, with potential upcoming developments hinted
In September 2025, Apple is expected to release the Apple Watch Series 11, featuring a highly anticipated sleep score feature. This new addition is part of Apple's ongoing focus on expanding health features, following the introduction of sleep apnea notifications in recent watch iterations.
The sleep score will be a consolidated metric that takes into account various sleep stages (REM, Core/Deep, and awake time) and possibly other health data like temperature. This score aims to offer a single sleep efficiency score and daily function prediction based on the previous night’s sleep.
The sleep score feature has been hinted at in the iOS 26 and watchOS 26 code, where a "Watch Focus Score" related to sleep tracking has been discovered. This score appears to aggregate various sleep metrics, offering a simplified understanding of different sleep stages.
While the sleep score feature is not currently present in watchOS 26, it is likely to be exclusive to the new Apple Watch models, such as the Series 11 or Ultra 3. It remains unclear whether the sleep score feature will be part of the watchOS 26 update or the Apple Watch 11.
Meanwhile, other devices like the Oura Ring 4 and Garmin watches already provide sleep scores, offering users a comprehensive overview of their sleep health. For instance, the Oura Ring 4 recently gave the author an outstanding sleep score of 89 for a 7-hour, 34-minute sleep session.
Apple Watch users have been anticipating the addition of a sleep score metric for years, as it would provide a quick and easily understandable way to track and improve their sleep quality. The author, who is more focused on tracking sleep since their son was born, is particularly hopeful that the sleep score feature will be rolled out onto Apple Watches soon.
As the release date for the Apple Watch Series 11 approaches, Apple enthusiasts and fitness enthusiasts alike are looking forward to potential upgrades in the new Apple Watches. For those interested in the latest news, how-tos, and reviews, Tom's Guide offers updates and can be followed on Google News.
- In the world of gadgets and wearables, Apple's upcoming release, the Apple Watch Series 11, is expected to join devices like the Oura Ring 4 and Garmin watches, by offering a sleep score feature, aiming to provide users with a consolidated, easily understandable metric to track and improve their sleep quality.
- As technology continues to evolve, with companies like Apple focusing on health and wellness features in their devices, users can anticipate more comprehensive sleep tracking tools, such as the Watch Focus Score, in the near future, as seen with the proposed sleep score feature in the Apple Watch Series 11.
