Earable sings sweet lullab-AIs: behind the sleep-inducing startup

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Hello there,

Sleep has always been shrouded in mystery. It’s an essential part of human life, but throughout history it’s been depicted as cryptic or even worrisome for those with sleepless nights. It has even inspired a mythical character in European folklore called the Sandman, who lulls people to sleep by sprinkling magical sand onto their eyes. In reality, sand in the eyes would definitely drag you out of slumberland.

In more recent lore, films such as Inception, Don’t Worry Darling, and Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind have introduced ideas related to tech-induced dreaming.

These works didn’t appear out of thin air – many around the world can relate to the struggles of dozing off. Up to 85% of adults have their sleep disturbed by occasional nightmares. In addition, 8% of people experience sleep paralysis in their lifetime, while around half of the US’ population have faced some symptoms of insomnia.

But in 2023, there may be more that can be done to make sleeping a lot less worrisome.

In this week’s Big Story, my colleague Huong explores a US and Vietnam-based startup called Earable Neuroscience and its flagship sleeptech product, the Frenz Brainband.

This US$499 AI-powered headband is said to track and stimulate brain activity, leading to better sleep, focus, and relaxation. After testing the invention on 1,000 people, nearly 90% reported having better sleep, with 86% falling asleep up to an hour faster than usual. This year, the startup is looking to raise US$35 million to US$40 million for its series A.

Speaking of fundraising, my colleague Aditya talks to Tin Men Capital co-founder Murli Ravi about the funding winter and why his firm is bullish on investing in B2B startups amid the downturn in this week’s Making Waves.

— Shadine

THE BIG STORY

The Peter Thiel-backed sleep startup on a quest to solve restless nights

Image credit: Timmy Loen

Based in both the US and Vietnam, Earable Neuroscience says its AI-powered headband can improve users’ sleep, focus, and relaxation.

MAKING WAVES

Recession Run: B2B startups have an edge over B2C, says Tin Men Capital

NEWS YOU SHOULD KNOW

FYI