1. ABOUT SLEEPENGINE™ TECHNOLOGY

This section explains the science and technology shared across all SleepEngine™ products: the SleepEngine™ POD, the Smart Pillow and SleepHub.

What is SleepEngine™?

SleepEngine™ is a patented audio (neuroacoustic) sleep technology developed by Cambridge Sleep Sciences over more than 15 years of neuroscience research. It plays scientifically developed sounds while you sleep to help you fall asleep faster, stay asleep for longer and wake feeling more refreshed. The same core technology powers the SleepEngine™ POD, the SleepEngine™ Smart Pillow and SleepHub.

How does SleepEngine™ work?

While you sleep, your brain produces waves whose shape and frequency change as you move through the night. SleepEngine™ plays scientifically developed low-frequency tones, called SleepEngine™ Sounds, that follow those same patterns stage by stage. Barely audible and working passively while you sleep, they guide your brain through the sequence of healthy sleep cycles.

This is different from a sleep aid that sedates you or a noise machine that masks what is around you. Night after night, your brain relearns how to sleep as it naturally should.

Does SleepEngine™ actually work? Is it proven?

94% of people sleep better with SleepEngine™.*

That figure comes from two independently run clinical studies. The first, run by CMR, an independent research company, was a 3-week in-home clinical study in which adults with insomnia symptoms kept nightly sleep diaries. The second was a 12-week pilot study run by an NHS family doctor, with adults whose insomnia had lasted six months or more and hadn't responded to conventional treatment. It measured sleep quality with the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, the industry standard measure.

In that study, more than two thirds saw a clinically meaningful improvement in sleep quality after 12 weeks (n=19), and the improvement in sleep quality still held eight weeks after participants stopped using the device. Their brains had learned something and kept it. The study is in peer review for publication.

*Based on two independently run clinical studies (n=53 total). "Sleep better" refers to participants' self-reported improvement during the study period when used as instructed. Individual results may vary.

Is SleepEngine™ a drug or medical device?

No. SleepEngine™ is drug free and non-invasive. It works using barely audible sound, so there is nothing to absorb and nothing to withdraw from, and no side effects were reported in our 12-week study. It is intended for personal sleep enhancement, and it is not a medical device and should not be used as one.

Do I need to wear anything or take a measurement?

No. There are no wearables, sensors or headphones. The technology works passively through speakers while you sleep. SleepEngine™ does not measure or track your sleep. Its job is to improve it.

What's the difference between SleepEngine™ Sounds and Soundscapes?

SleepEngine™ Sounds are the scientifically developed sound at the core of the technology. They do the work of guiding your brain through its sleep cycles. A Soundscape is an optional relaxing background sound (such as rain, ocean waves or white noise) that you can play alongside SleepEngine™ Sounds purely for comfort and ambience. Soundscapes are optional; SleepEngine™ Sounds deliver the sleep benefit.

How quickly will I see an improvement in my sleep?

Everyone's sleep journey is different. Some people report benefits within a few days, while for others it takes several weeks. The technology works by retraining habits, so the more consistently you use it, the better your results are likely to be. Many people tell us they dream more vividly when they first start using SleepEngine™. It is a common report and it usually settles once your new sleep pattern is established.

Can children use SleepEngine™?

SleepEngine™ is not recommended for children below 18 years old. It has been developed to retrain adult brains to revert to their natural sleep cycles. Products should also not be used by individuals with reduced physical, sensory or mental capacity unless supervised or instructed by a responsible adult.

Can two people use it at the same time?

Yes. A couple sharing a bed can both benefit, but you will need to go to bed at the same time, use the same sleep program and both be able to hear the sounds. Results may vary from person to person. The Smart Pillow and SleepEngine™ POD have been developed to enable two people sharing a bed to use a device separately. This means that you can personalise your sleep experience, leaving you free to go to bed at different times and use different sleep programs.

Will it help if I also use sleeping tablets or other sleep aids?

There is no harm in using SleepEngine™ alongside other sleep products, but they are not expected to change how SleepEngine™ improves your sleep. As always, follow medical advice regarding any medication.

Does it record audio or video?

No. SleepEngine™ devices do not record audio or video and do not contain a microphone or camera.

2. HELP AND SUPPORT

Who makes SleepEngine™ products?

All SleepEngine™ products are designed and made by Cambridge Sleep Sciences Ltd, a company based in the UK.

How do I contact customer support?

For technical support, troubleshooting, warranty or any other enquiry, you can contact the customer support team by email at support@sleepengine.com. The support team is typically available Monday to Friday, 9am–5pm (UK) and aim to respond to weekday enquiries within 24 hours (excluding weekends and UK bank holidays).

Where can I find user guides and more help?

Full user guides and support information are available online at sleephub.com and cambridgesleepsciences.com. The SleepEngine™ app also has a built-in FAQ and Feedback section within Settings.

Does my product come with a warranty?

Yes. SleepEngine™ products come with a one-year limited manufacturer's warranty covering manufacturing defects. For a warranty claim, contact customer support with your proof of purchase.

Can I return my product?

If you bought online, you generally have a legal right to change your mind within 14 days and return the product to the retailer you purchased from. For hygiene reasons, items such as the Smart Pillow can only be returned if unopened, unused and in their original packaging in resalable condition. You will be refunded the price paid (and basic delivery if charged), but usually pay the cost of return. If there is a technical fault, contact customer support, as the warranty applies. Return terms can vary by retailer, so check where you purchased.

My product arrived damaged or with items missing. What should I do?

Contact customer support straight away, quoting your order number and a contact telephone number, and the team will resolve it as quickly as possible. Always check the box contents on arrival (see the relevant "What's in the box" question for your product).

How do I reset a forgotten app password?

On the app log-in screen tap "Forgot Password?", enter your email address and tap Send. You'll receive an email with recovery instructions (check your junk folder if you don't see it, or tap resend). Follow the link, create and confirm a new password, then tap Reset Password and log in again. Passwords must be at least 8 characters and include at least one uppercase letter, one lowercase letter, one number and one special character.

How do I keep my device up to date?

Keeping your device connected to Wi-Fi allows it to download the latest software automatically for peak performance. In the SleepEngine™ app, you can check for firmware updates under Settings. SleepHub checks for and installs updates automatically when connected to your home Wi-Fi.

How should I dispose of my product?

Don't put electronic products in regular household waste. Follow your local regulations for recycling electronic devices, or use a return/collection scheme. The retailer where you purchased can often help with environmentally safe recycling.

3. SLEEPENGINE™ POD

About the SleepEngine™ POD

What is the SleepEngine™ POD?

The SleepEngine™ POD is a compact in-bed audio device containing the SleepEngine™ sound module with two built-in speakers. It sits inside its quilted cover and goes under your pillow, behind it or on your bedside table, then plays SleepEngine™ Sounds while you sleep. It works with any bed or pillow, with no wearables and no subscription. Everything you need is in the box.

Where to buy the SleepEngine™ POD

What's in the box?

• SleepEngine™ sound module and cover
• Puck (circular power adapter)
• Universal plug (with interchangeable pin fittings)
• USB power cable
• Cable ties (x2)

Carefully remove all items and contact customer support straight away if anything is missing or damaged.

Setting up your SleepEngine™ POD

How do I prepare my SleepEngine™ POD?

Open the cover fully using the zip. Noting the label on the outside of the cover, place the sound module inside so the speakers face the correct way up and the attached audio cable sits outside the cover, then close the zip. Uncoil the audio cable and connect its mini-jack plug to the "SPEAKER OUT" socket on the puck.

How do I connect the SleepEngine™ POD to power?

• Connect the power cable's USB-C plug into the "DC IN" socket on the puck.
• Connect the other (USB-A) end into the universal plug, choosing the correct pin fitting for your mains socket.
• Switch on at the wall socket if needed.
• Wait for the chime that confirms the SleepEngine™ POD is powered.
• Make sure the SleepEngine™ POD has power before pairing with the app.

How should I route the cables safely?

Keep cables clear of walkways and sleeping areas to avoid trips or entanglement. Don't loop, twist, knot or over-bend them. Gather and secure the slack neatly using the supplied cable ties, and keep cables out of reach of young children and pets.

How do I get the app and create an account?

Download the free SleepEngine™ app from the Apple App Store or Google Play. Launch it, tap through the Welcome screen and tap Register. Enter your details, read and agree to the Terms of Service and Privacy Policy, then tap Continue and Create Account. Verify your email via the link sent to you (check junk if needed), then tap Get Started. After your first login you stay logged in unless you log out.

How do I pair the app with my SleepEngine™ POD?

SleepEngine™ uses a secure one-to-one connection via a unique QR code, so once paired no other app can connect to your SleepEngine™ POD. Make sure Bluetooth is enabled on your phone and the SleepEngine™ POD has power. On the setup screen tap Pair Now, allow camera access, and scan the QR code found on the base of the puck (or on the USB power cable). Pairing takes a few moments and you'll see a confirmation screen.

If the QR code won't scan or pairing fails: check the camera has enough light and try again, confirm Bluetooth is on, and restart the app if needed. Note that if another device later scans your QR code, it will override the previous connection.

Using your SleepEngine™ POD

What is the Home screen?

Each time you open the app you land on the Home page, which summarises your settings. From here you can start/stop your chosen Sleep Program with the large play/pause button, adjust volume (speaker icon), turn the wake-up alarm on/off and see its time (alarm-clock icon), and tap the Soundscape and Alarm Sound icons to change those choices.

What Sleep Programs are available and which should I use?

There are four scientifically developed programs:

• Deep Sleep: the recommended "gold standard". A fixed 8-hour program with an 18-minute wake-up cycle and alarm. Ideal for a regular, undisturbed 8 hours.
• Easy Sleep: an alternative when you have less than 8 hours; choose between 2 and 8 hours up to your alarm time.
• Fall Asleep: a 2-hour program that guides you into deep sleep with an optional alarm. Ideal if you struggle to drop off but then stay asleep.
• Power Nap: an energising nap of 30, 45 or 60 minutes with an optional alarm.

Deep Sleep is usually the best program to start with. To switch program, tap Programs in the navigation menu and choose a new one.

How do I choose a Soundscape?

Soundscapes are optional relaxing sounds played alongside SleepEngine™ Sounds. Open the Soundscapes page (navigation menu or the Soundscape icon on Home). There are 8 to choose from: tap the play button on any icon to preview it, then tap your choice and press continue. The selected Soundscape plays for the duration of your program. Available options include Ocean Waves, Rain, Stream, Wind, Train, Brown Noise, Pink Noise and White Noise.

How do I set my wake-up alarm sound?

Open the Alarms page from the navigation menu. There are 8 alarm sounds (Beats, Bliss, Calm and Happy variations). Preview with the play button, tap your choice and press continue. Your alarm plays at the end of your chosen program. Use the on/off toggle next to the alarm icon on Home to enable or disable it.

What volume levels should I use?

On the app's home screen, tap the speaker icon below your program to open Volume Controls. Start with the SleepEngine™ Sounds slider (labelled Sleepsounds in the app) at around 40. With your head on the pillow and the room quiet, nudge it up until you can hear it clearly, then ease it back down until it's only faintly there, on the cusp of hearing. You should only just notice it. If the sliders won't move, tap the chain-link icon to unlock them. Tap it again to lock your settings when you're done.

Important: SleepEngine™ Sounds don't need to be loud to work. If you find yourself listening to them, they're still a little too loud. If you're using a Soundscape, set it 3–5 points below SleepEngine™ Sounds. If you don't use one, set the Soundscape slider to 0. You can then fine-tune the overall level using your phone's volume control.

What's in the Settings menu?

Settings lets you check connection status, disconnect your SleepEngine™ POD, view/confirm your Wi-Fi network, check for firmware updates, edit your password, try Demo Mode (a short intro to how SleepEngine™ works), read the FAQ, send Feedback, view the Privacy Policy and Terms of Service, log out, or delete your account.

How do I get the most from my SleepEngine™ POD?

Use it every time you go to bed. Consistency retrains habits fastest. You can typically expect to feel more relaxed at bedtime, drift off more easily, wake less and get back to sleep faster, which over time can mean less daytime tiredness and lower stress. Remember that nutrition, exercise and your sleep environment also affect sleep; keeping a sleep journal can help you track progress.

How do I clean and care for my SleepEngine™ POD?

The cover is removable, so follow the cover's care instructions. Never get the sound module, puck, cables or other electronics wet, and don't try to clean them. Keep the product away from heat sources and direct sunlight, store it in a cool, dry place, and regularly inspect the module, cables and plug for damage. If anything is damaged, stop using it and contact customer support.

4. SLEEPENGINE™ SMART PILLOW

About the Smart Pillow

What is the Smart Pillow?

The Smart Pillow is a high-quality pillow with the SleepEngine™ sound unit (two speakers) built inside it. It plays SleepEngine™ Sounds while you sleep to help you fall asleep faster, stay asleep longer and wake refreshed. The pillow itself uses fully moulded, pressure-relieving foam with a quilted cover for comfort and support.

What's in the box?

• Smart Pillow (with sound unit inside and a connected audio cable)
• Puck (circular power adapter)
• Universal plug (with interchangeable pin fittings)
• USB power cable
• Cable ties (x2)

Setting up your Smart Pillow

How do I position the pillow?

Use a pillow cover and place the pillow on your bed as you normally would, the correct way up. A label on the pillow shows the correct orientation. Make sure the audio cable comes out towards the back of the pillow so it doesn't obstruct you during sleep.

How do I connect the Smart Pillow to power?

The pillow contains a stereo speaker unit that connects to a separate puck (circular power adapter) designed to sit on the floor near a power socket.

• Remove the audio cable from the zipped compartment on the side of the pillow.
• Connect its mini-jack plug to the "SPEAKER OUT" socket on the puck.
• Connect the power cable's USB-C plug to the "DC IN" socket on the puck.
• Connect the USB-A end to the universal plug with the correct pin fitting and switch on at the socket if needed.
• Wait for the chime confirming power, and make sure the pillow has power before pairing the app.

Keep the cable clear of walkways and sleeping areas, and avoid placing it under the pillow or bedding to prevent damage and overheating. Secure slack with the supplied cable ties.

How do I download the app and pair my Smart Pillow?

Download the free SleepEngine™ app from the App Store or Google Play, register an account and verify your email. With Bluetooth enabled and the pillow powered, tap Pair Now, allow camera access and scan the unique QR code on the base of the puck (or on the USB power cable). This creates a secure one-to-one connection.

If pairing fails, ensure good lighting for the camera, confirm Bluetooth is on, and restart the app. If another device scans the QR code it will take over the connection.

Using your Smart Pillow

How do I use the app day to day?

The app works just like it does for the SleepEngine™ POD. From the Home page you start/stop your Sleep Program, adjust volume, manage your wake-up alarm and change your Soundscape and Alarm Sound. The four Sleep Programs (Deep Sleep, Easy Sleep, Fall Asleep, Power Nap) and the 8 Soundscapes and 8 Alarm Sounds are identical to those described in the SleepEngine™ POD section above.

What volume levels should I use?

Open Volume Controls via the speaker icon on the app's home screen, tap the chain-link to unlock the sliders and set them. Suggested starting points: Soundscape 50 (0 if not used), SleepEngine™ Sounds 53 (labelled Sleepsounds in the app), Alarm 50. SleepEngine™ Sounds should be only just audible with your head on the pillow, and any Soundscape should be set 3–5 points below them. Lock the settings with the chain-link icon when done.

What settings are available for the Smart Pillow?

Under Settings you'll find Audio Devices (shows the connection; tap Unpair Now to disconnect), Edit Password, FAQ, Feedback, Privacy Policy, Terms of Service, Log Out and Delete Account.

How do I get the most from my Smart Pillow?

Use it every time you go to bed. Consistency retrains habits fastest. You can typically expect to feel more relaxed at bedtime, drift off more easily, wake less and get back to sleep faster, which over time can mean less daytime tiredness and lower stress. Remember that nutrition, exercise and your sleep environment also affect sleep; keeping a sleep journal can help you track progress.

How do I clean and care for my Smart Pillow?

Spot clean only, for both the outer cover and the inner. Never machine wash or use water or cleaning solvents on the pillow or its electronics. Keep it away from heat and direct sunlight, store in a cool, dry place, and regularly inspect the pillow, cable and adapter for damage, discontinuing use and contacting support if any is found.

Should I change my sleep routine to get the best results?

Try to go to sleep at a consistent time and create a good sleep environment (dark, quiet, cool and relaxed) and avoid caffeine and heavy meals before bed. Deep Sleep is a good program to start with, and consistency is key to getting the most from the technology.

5. SLEEPHUB®

About SleepHub

What is SleepHub?

SleepHub is a bedside sleep-aid device powered by SleepEngine™ technology. It uses a touchscreen main console (the "Main Unit") connected to two separate speakers that you place either side of the bed. It plays SleepEngine™ Sounds and optional Soundscapes to help retrain your brain towards natural sleep cycles.

How does SleepHub differ from the SleepEngine™ POD and Smart Pillow?

All three use the same underlying SleepEngine™ technology, but SleepHub is controlled directly from a touchscreen console rather than a phone app, and uses two standalone speakers placed beside the bed instead of a compact sound module. The SleepEngine™ POD and Smart Pillow are app-controlled, more compact and travel-friendly. SleepHub also offers Bluetooth audio playback of your own music when not running a sleep program.

What's in the box?

• SleepHub main unit (touchscreen console)
• Two speakers
• Two RCA cables (one 5 m and one 2 m)
• Mains power adapter
• Getting started guide

Setting up your SleepHub

Where should I place SleepHub?

Place it close to your bed near a mains socket. A bedside table is ideal. Position the two speakers either side of the person/people using it (they can face or sit behind the bed) so you lie within the field of sound from each speaker. Use it only indoors in a clean, dry place, away from water, trip hazards and heat, and don't cover the console or block the speaker vents.

How do I connect SleepHub?

• Place the speakers either side of the bed.
• Connect the speakers to the main unit with the RCA cables: the 2 m cable to the nearer speaker and the 5 m cable to the further speaker.
• Plug the power adapter into a wall socket and connect it to the main unit (check the socket voltage matches the voltage printed on the underside of the unit).
• Always pull from the plug, never the cable, when unplugging.

How do I connect SleepHub to the internet?

Keep SleepHub connected to your home Wi-Fi so it always has the latest software. On the home screen tap the settings (gear) button, select WiFi and follow the prompts to choose and connect to your network. It will then check for and install any software updates automatically.

Using SleepHub

How do I start a sleep program?

If the screen is black, tap it to wake it, then "Slide to Sleep" from the home screen. Tap the Sleeping Mode section to choose your program, tap the Soundscape icon to pick a soundscape, and set your alarm if you wish. When ready, press play to begin.

What sleeping modes does SleepHub offer?

The same four as other SleepEngine™ products: Deep Sleep (8-hour program with an 18-minute wake-up cycle and fixed alarm), Easy Sleep (2–8 hours up to your alarm), Fall Asleep (2-hour program with optional alarm) and Power Nap (30, 45 or 60 minutes with optional alarm).

How do I set the alarm?

Manual alarm times can be set in Easy Sleep and Fall Asleep modes. Tap the alarm icon, scroll to your chosen time and tap OK. Deep Sleep and Power Nap end automatically after their set duration (Deep Sleep's alarm sounds at the end of the program). Your chosen alarm tone starts quietly and gently rises to full volume after around 30 seconds. To have no alarm in Deep Sleep or Nap modes, slide the alarm volume to 0 before starting. To stop a sounding alarm, slide the screen; tap the screen to snooze (repeats every 5 minutes until stopped).

What volume levels should I use on SleepHub?

Open Settings → Volume Control and adjust the individual sliders. Suggested starting points for SleepHub are: Master volume 45–55 (set on the home screen), SleepEngine™ Sounds 53, Soundscape 50, Alarm 50, Balance 0 (evenly distributed between both speakers). SleepEngine™ Sounds should be heard clearly but faintly, on the edge of hearing, and any Soundscape should sit just below them. You may need to experiment over your first few nights to find your ideal balance.

Can I play my own music through SleepHub?

Yes. SleepHub's premium speakers can play music via Bluetooth when you're not running an active sleep program. On your Bluetooth device, find and connect to "SleepHub" (refer to your device's instructions if needed).

What other settings can I change?

From the settings menu you can adjust Soundscapes, choose your Language, set Date & Time, change Volume Control, manage Wireless (Wi-Fi/Bluetooth) and view device information under About.

How do I get the most from my SleepHub?

Use it every time you go to bed. Consistency retrains habits fastest. You can typically expect to feel more relaxed at bedtime, drift off more easily, wake less and get back to sleep faster, which over time can mean less daytime tiredness and lower stress. Remember that nutrition, exercise and your sleep environment also affect sleep; keeping a sleep journal can help you track progress.

Still need help?

Visit Where to buy if you're looking to buy a SleepEngine™ POD. For help with a product you already own, use the in-app FAQ and Feedback options, or email support@sleepengine.com.

© 2026 Cambridge Sleep Sciences Ltd. SleepEngine™ and SleepHub® are trademarks of Cambridge Sleep Sciences.