Anker's SleepLab speaker tracks breathing with radar and adjusts audio and light
Anker's SleepLab speaker uses 60GHz millimeter-wave radar to monitor chest movements and breathing without requiring a wearable device. Over a month, it learns which routines improve rest and then plays binaural beats and adjusts lighting to deepen relaxation. The radar-equipped Pro model costs $269.99, while a version without radar is $169.99, and reservations are open for a $1 deposit.
The SleepLab operates as a standalone device, requiring no smartphone connection or subscription fees for its core sleep-tracking functions, though Bluetooth streaming is available for those who want to play their own audio. Anker is offering two configurations: the Pro model with radar sensing at $269.99 and a more affordable $169.99 version without the radar component, with reservations currently open for a $1 deposit.
The device was unveiled as part of the IFA 2026 technology showcase, where Anker positioned it as a contactless alternative to wearable sleep trackers. The Verge's deputy editor has requested a review unit, indicating independent testing is forthcoming. The product's "new-agey" positioning, including binaural beats and lighting-based relaxation features, suggests Anker is targeting consumers seeking holistic sleep solutions rather than purely clinical sleep monitoring.
This device could signal a broader shift away from wearable health tracking toward ambient, contactless monitoring embedded in everyday objects. Consumers who find wrist-worn trackers uncomfortable or intrusive may be drawn to radar-based alternatives that require no physical contact. However, the presence of radar technology in a bedroom device could raise privacy considerations for some users, even though the system operates locally without a subscription. The $269.99 price point may limit adoption to tech enthusiasts initially, but if reviews validate its effectiveness, similar features could become standard in smart home audio products.