How sleep tech is transforming rest and wellness across India
Technology has revolutionised nearly every facet of modern life — from ergonomic seating that supports posture during long office hours to customised skincare targeting specific skin concerns. Amongst these lifestyle upgrades, one area gaining remarkable momentum is sleep — a pillar of health that remains underappreciated yet crucial.In a country like India, where stress levels are soaring and sleep deprivation is becoming a silent epidemic, tech-driven solutions could be the answer to better rest and long-term wellness. India Today spoke with Mr Ganesh Sonawane, Co-founder and CEO at Frido, to understand how this rapidly evolving domain is reshaping the way Indians sleep.advertisementSLEEP TECH: A PARADIGM SHIFT IN REST AND RECOVERYSleep tech refers to the ecosystem of gadgets and innovations designed to enhance sleep quality using intelligent systems. Gone are the days of just a comfy mattress or a white noise machine. Today's sleep technology employs AI, smart sensors, and machine learning to monitor, analyse, and improve sleep.
'Sleep tech is not about comfort alone any more. "It's about measurable health outcomes,' said Mr Sonawane. 'From heart rate to snoring patterns, technology is now helping decode sleep on a much deeper level.'SMART PILLOWS: FROM HEADRESTS TO HEALTH MONITORSOnce a basic bedroom accessory, the pillow has turned into a smart sleep companion. Smart pillows now offer adjustable firmness, ergonomic shaping, and integrated biometric sensors. These innovations cater to various sleep positions and spinal health, while also tracking movement, snoring, and even REM cycles.advertisementMany of these pillows also feature temperature-regulating technology, maintaining optimal coolness or warmth depending on user preference. Some AI-enabled models also detect snoring and subtly reposition the user's head to alleviate obstruction, offering relief for both the sleeper and their partner.Beds and mattresses are also undergoing a high-tech transformation. Today's smart beds incorporate pressure-sensitive support systems that adapt in real-time to your body. Some even allow couples to customise each side of the mattress based on their individual comfort needs."One big barrier in India is price," said Mr Sonawane. "We noticed that people continue using old mattresses, unaware of the long-term harm they cause. That's where solutions like mattress toppers — a simple, tech-enabled upgrade — are gaining traction.'These toppers offer temperature regulation and orthopaedic support without the need to purchase a new mattress — a game-changer in price-sensitive markets like India.SLEEP TECH AND ITS DIRECT IMPACT ON HEALTHThe importance of sleep extends far beyond rest. Sleep tech devices actively combat insomnia, sleep apnea, and chronic fatigue. By using biofeedback and real-time analysis, they promote better sleep hygiene and mental clarity.Research backs this up. Studies show that employees who nap or sleep better experience higher productivity and income gains. Additionally, managing sleep apnea — a condition that affects a growing number of Indians — can drastically reduce risks of hypertension and Type 2 diabetes.advertisement'People underestimate how much poor sleep contributes to poor immunity, obesity, and even mood disorders. Sleep tech is a proactive way to reverse that,' Mr Sonawane added.WHAT LIES AHEAD: THE FUTURE OF SLEEP TECH IN INDIAThe next frontier for sleep tech lies in personalised AI-powered sleep plans. Innovations will soon allow for smart lighting, tailored soundscapes, and neurofeedback-based interventions that stimulate deeper, restorative sleep cycles.India is also catching up fast. As digital awareness increases and more urban dwellers prioritise wellness, the adoption of sleep tech is expected to surge.'Technology is evolving to not only track your sleep but guide you toward healthier rest patterns,' said Mr Sonawane. 'From smart pillows that detect breathing irregularities to cooling mattresses that adjust to summer nights, the future is about sleeping smarter — no longer.'In an age of information overload and endless hustle, sleep has emerged as a silent casualty. But thanks to technological innovation, it is also becoming the gateway to better health, productivity, and longevity.As India begins to recognise the long-term value of sleep, the integration of smart sleep solutions into everyday life will only grow. And as Mr Sonawane concluded: 'Investing in how we sleep is investing in how we live.'
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