When Apple's watchOS 7 update launches rolls out later this year, the Apple Watch will finally be able to monitor your sleep — a capability that has only been possible by installing a third-party app until this point.
The addition addresses one of the Apple Watch's main shortcomings compared to other fitness trackers like those made by Fitbit.
Given Apple's big push into health over the past several years, it's no surprise that the company is focusing on new areas like sleep. But if you've used a Fitbit device in the past, don't expect the Apple Watch's sleep tracking experience to be a direct comparison.
The Apple Watch is more limited in terms of the metrics it tracks during your slumber. But most importantly, the Apple Watch's battery life isn't as long as that of Fitbit's smartwatches and wristbands, which can make it challenging to get through the day without scrambling for a charge after wearing it overnight.
Apple's sleep features, rather, are more focused on the entire experience of sleep, meaning it helps you prepare for bed rather than just tracking what happens once you're asleep.
Apple hasn't said when its watchOS 7 software will officially launch, but the public beta is available today. If you do plan on trying the public beta, keep in mind that it's not the final version of the software so you may experience bugs. And you also won't be able to roll your watch's software back to the previous version.
Apple typically releases the final version of its new watch software in the fall.
Here's a closer look at what it's been like to track my sleep using the Apple Watch.