Apple Watch Sleep Score: A Closer Look at the Proposed Feature

Apple Watch sleep score feature in development, with a percentage score indicating readiness to tackle the day ahead. The feature provides a graphical representation of sleep stages, similar to Oura smart ring features. The Oura Ring readiness score measures how well-rested you are, while the sleep score provides an overview of your sleep duration and a detailed breakdown of your sleep stages. The data can be useful for tracking sleep quality over time and identifying influencing factors.

Apple Watch is set to introduce a sleep score feature, a significant update to its sleep tracking capabilities. The feature, expected to debut in watchOS 26, will provide users with a percentage score indicating their readiness to tackle the day ahead. This feature mirrors aspects of the Oura smart ring, offering a more condensed graphical representation of sleep stages [2].

The sleep score feature is anticipated to be a departure from the current sleep tracking system introduced in watchOS 7, which relies on manual scheduling and basic metrics. Apple’s latest leak suggests the new feature will automatically track sleep without requiring users to manually enable sleep mode [1]. This automatic tracking system is a notable improvement, as competitors like Fitbit and Garmin have long provided effortless, always-on monitoring.

The Apple Watch sleep score feature will likely leverage existing sensors such as the accelerometer and heart rate monitor to generate scores. The integration of machine learning could personalize recommendations, providing users with tailored advice based on their sleep quality [1]. This feature could be particularly useful for users who struggle with insomnia or other sleep-related issues, offering insights into how to improve their sleep quality.

The development of this feature comes at a time when the wearable tech market is highly competitive. Rivals like Garmin and Google's Pixel Watch have long offered sleep scoring features, which could narrow the feature gap and boost Apple’s market share in health-focused wearables [3]. Apple’s move to incorporate sleep scoring is seen as a strategic shift to enhance its health ecosystem and position the Apple Watch as a more comprehensive health companion.

The timeline for the introduction of this feature suggests a reveal at WWDC 2025, with beta testing already hinting at the feature. The code spotted by MacRumors indicates a system akin to Fitbit’s, scoring sleep on a 1-100 scale [1]. However, regulatory hurdles for health features remain a challenge, as seen in Apple’s past delays with blood oxygen monitoring.

The potential benefits of this feature extend beyond individual users. For enterprise clients in corporate wellness programs, the Apple Watch could offer holistic wellness scores by aggregating sleep data with other metrics like activity and stress. This could drive upgrades, especially if bundled with AI enhancements in iOS 26.

In conclusion, the Apple Watch sleep score feature signals a significant advancement in sleep tracking technology. While it may not be an innovative leap, Apple’s seamless integration with existing hardware and software could make its version more accessible and useful. As the feature moves closer to launch, investors and financial professionals should monitor its impact on Apple’s market share and overall health ecosystem.

References:
[1] https://www.webpronews.com/apple-watch-to-gain-sleep-scoring-feature-in-watchos-26-boosting-sleep-tracking-with-ai-insights/
[2] https://9to5mac.com/2025/07/23/apple-watch-sleep-score-looks-set-to-replicate-these-two-smart-ring-features/
[3] https://www.androidauthority.com/apple-watch-sleep-galaxy-pixel-watch-feature-3580069/