Gear 2: Your Sleep Tracking Companion

The Samsung Gear S2 is a smartwatch with a variety of features, including sleep tracking. While the device initially lacked this feature, Samsung released a software update in 2016 that introduced sleep tracking capabilities. The update allows the Gear S2 to utilize its accelerometer and heart rate sensor to track sleep phases and detect different stages of sleep, including restless, light, and motionless periods. Users can view their sleep data on the S Health app, which offers insights into total sleep time and sleep history. The sleep tracking feature has received positive feedback for its accuracy, with some users noting that it can impact battery life. Additionally, the Samsung Gear Fit2, a fitness tracker/smartwatch hybrid, also offers automatic sleep monitoring through the S Health app.

Gear S2's sleep tracking capabilities

The Samsung Gear S2 smartwatch has sleep-tracking capabilities. In 2016, Samsung released a major software update for the Gear S2 that introduced compatibility for sleep tracking. The update was made available in Asia, Europe, North America, and South America.

The sleep-tracking feature on the Gear S2 utilizes the device's integrated heart rate sensor to detect three different stages of sleep: restless, light, and motionless. It then analyses this data and puts it through a complex algorithm to calculate the total time slept and the amount of calories burnt. The data can be viewed on the S Health application, which is available on both Android and iOS. The S Health app allows users to view their sleep history and identify any trends in their sleep patterns.

Some users have reported that the sleep tracking on the Gear S2 is \"scary accurate," even without setting alarms on the phone. However, there are also reports of the automatic sleep tracking not working for some users, and the device not being listed as a sleep-tracking accessory within the S Health app.

To enhance the sleep-tracking capabilities of the Gear S2, users can download third-party apps such as "Sleep as Android" and "GNight." These apps integrate with the S Health app and provide additional features such as sound recording and more detailed sleep analysis.

Overall, while the Gear S2 does have sleep-tracking capabilities, there may be some variability in the accuracy and reliability of the feature depending on individual user experiences.

Accuracy of sleep tracking

The accuracy of sleep tracking is an important consideration when choosing a sleep tracker. While the Samsung Gear S2 does have sleep-tracking capabilities, there are mixed reviews on its accuracy. Some users have reported that the Gear S2 accurately tracks their sleep, even without alarms set on their phones. It also tracks periods of restless sleep and separate sleep periods.

However, others have noted that the sleep tracking function on the Gear S2 is not as accurate as they would like. For example, if a user wakes up in the middle of the night and then goes back to sleep, the Gear S2 may log this as two separate sleep periods, which can affect the efficiency rating. Additionally, the automatic sleep tracking feature on the Gear S2 may not work for all users, and some have had to manually input their sleep data.

To improve the accuracy of sleep tracking, some users have suggested using third-party apps such as Sleep as Android, which integrates with the S Health app. This add-on uses the watch's accelerometer to track movements and determine sleep phases, and is reported to be more accurate than the standard Samsung sleep tracking app. However, it uses more battery power, with an estimated usage of 10 to 20% overnight.

For medically accurate sleep-tracking data, a polysomnography test is recommended. The Oura Ring Gen3, for example, has been validated through studies and found to agree with a polysomnography test 79% of the time. Other factors to consider when choosing a sleep tracker include comfort, ease of use, and data comprehension. Lightweight and compact designs are ideal for comfortable sleep, and faster charging rates can make up for shorter battery life.

Comparison to other sleep tracking apps

The Samsung Gear S2 does have sleep-tracking capabilities, but users have reported that it is not as accurate as other sleep-tracking apps and devices on the market.

Comparison to other sleep-tracking apps

The Gear S2 uses the watch's accelerometer to track your movements and determine your sleep phases based on movement. This method is called actigraphy and is used by many other sleep-tracking apps and devices. However, some users have reported that the automatic sleep tracking on the Gear S2 is not very accurate, and it does not seem to register sleep on the S Health app.

There are several other sleep-tracking apps available that offer more comprehensive tracking and analysis of sleep patterns. For example, Sleep as Android is a very good app that is supported by S Health and is a lot more accurate at tracking sleep than the standard Samsung app. It tracks sleep with graphs and also records sound (e.g. snoring). This app can be used as a companion app to the Gear S2, but it requires an additional download and purchase, which some users may find cumbersome and unnecessary.

Another highly-rated sleep-tracking app is Sleep Cycle, which offers detailed stats and sleep graphs to help you understand your sleep patterns better. It works by using your phone's sound recorder to analyze sounds and track your sleep, but unlike Sleep as Android, it does not have to be in bed with you and can be placed on the floor or a bedside table. Sleep Cycle also offers a range of sleep programs with tips and hacks on ways to sleep better, but some of these features require a premium subscription, and there is a lot of data to look through.

SleepScore is another popular sleep-tracking app that uses its own sonar sleep tracker technology to measure your sleep through your breath and the movements your body makes during the night. It provides information on sleep stages in the form of a score between 0 and 100, which is ideal for anyone who wants to track their sleep and see how it changes over time. SleepScore also uses easy-to-understand graphs to help you analyze your sleep data and offers a range of additional features.

Overall, while the Samsung Gear S2 does have sleep-tracking capabilities, there are several other sleep-tracking apps available that offer more comprehensive and accurate tracking and analysis of sleep patterns. These apps can be used as companion apps to the Gear S2, but they may require additional downloads and purchases, which some users may find inconvenient.

Battery life

The battery life of the Samsung Gear S2 is a consideration when discussing its sleep-tracking capabilities. While the watch has a multi-day battery life, the sleep-tracking function can impact this duration.

Some users have reported that the "Sleep as Android" app, which integrates with the S Health app, uses approximately 10-20% of the battery life overnight. This can be a concern for those who want to use the watch for sleep tracking over multiple nights without needing to recharge.

It is worth noting that the battery life can vary depending on other factors, such as Bluetooth and WiFi usage. For example, leaving Bluetooth on has been reported to drain the battery within a day. With these functions turned off, the Gear S2 can last for 3-4 days.

Additionally, the display brightness can impact battery life. In some cases, users have reported that even with Bluetooth and WiFi switched off and the display dimmed, the battery life falls short of Samsung's claimed duration of 15 days, instead lasting only 2 to 3 days.

Overall, while the Gear S2 offers sleep-tracking capabilities, the impact on battery life is a consideration for users, especially if they intend to use the watch for multiple nights of sleep tracking without needing to recharge.

Setting up sleep tracking

• Using the S Health App: The S Health App is a built-in feature on Samsung devices that can track your sleep. To set up sleep tracking using the S Health App, ensure that your Gear S2 is connected to your Samsung device. When you go to bed, open the S Health App on your phone and manually input that you are going to sleep. The app will then track your sleep automatically and provide you with data when you wake up.
• Using Sleep as Android App: If you want a more comprehensive sleep tracking solution, you can download the Sleep as Android app on your phone and the companion Gear S2 app. These apps integrate with the S Health App as companion apps. This solution provides more detailed sleep tracking, including graphs and sound recording. However, it requires a bit more setup and may drain your battery faster.
• Using Galaxy/Gear Add-on for Sleep: Another option is to use the Galaxy/Gear Add-on for Sleep app, which is specifically designed for Samsung Galaxy Gear watches running Tizen OS. To use this app, you need to have the Gear companion app installed on your watch. This app may have some connectivity issues, but it can provide additional sleep tracking features.

It is important to note that some users have reported that the Gear S2 does not automatically track sleep and that they have to manually input their sleep data into the S Health App. However, other users have reported that automatic sleep tracking works for them, so it may depend on your device's settings and software updates.

To ensure the best results, make sure your Gear S2 is charged and connected to your Samsung device before you go to sleep. Additionally, it is recommended to wait at least an hour after waking up before checking your sleep data, as it may take some time for the apps to update and send you notifications.

Frequently asked questions