The Ozlo Sleepbuds represent a revival of the innovative sleep aid concept initially introduced by Bose. Developed by former Bose engineers who acquired the rights to the technology, these new Sleepbuds retain the original’s compact design, both in the earbuds themselves and the charging case. This familiar form factor is a positive for those who appreciated the discreet and comfortable fit of the Bose version. A key improvement lies in the addition of Bluetooth streaming functionality, allowing users to play audio from their phones, a feature absent from the predecessor. This expands the Sleepbuds’ utility beyond pre-loaded noise-masking sounds, offering more personalized sleep soundtracks.
A standout feature of the Ozlo Sleepbuds, inherited from the Bose design, is their remarkably small size and comfortable fit. Accompanied by four different ear tip sizes, the buds are designed to accommodate a wide range of ear shapes and sizes, catering to side sleepers and others with specific comfort requirements. While not equipped with active noise cancellation, the Sleepbuds effectively isolate the wearer from external noise through passive noise reduction. This, combined with a selection of soothing sounds like crashing waves, rainfall, and crackling fire, creates a tranquil auditory environment conducive to sleep.
Beyond noise masking, the Ozlo Sleepbuds offer several convenient features. A personal alarm function confines the alert to the wearer’s ears, respecting the sleep of partners sharing the same bed. A smart feature detects when the user has fallen asleep while listening to music and seamlessly transitions to a pre-selected noise-masking sound, ensuring uninterrupted slumber. Additionally, the Sleepbuds incorporate sleep-monitoring capabilities, providing insights into sleep patterns.
The Ozlo Sleepbuds, while promising, are not without their initial challenges. The companion app, available for both iOS and Android, is still undergoing refinement, and some users may experience occasional operational hiccups. The streaming functionality, while welcomed, has a quirk: the charging case must be within proximity for streaming to function. This is because the case plays a role in the Bluetooth connection, in addition to its primary function of charging the earbuds, which boast a battery life of up to 10 hours.
Despite these minor drawbacks, the overall impression of the Ozlo Sleepbuds is positive. They effectively address the needs of light sleepers and those disturbed by ambient noise, including snoring partners. The added functionality of Bluetooth streaming is a significant improvement over the original Sleepbuds, offering a wider range of audio options. The sound quality, while not bass-heavy, is surprisingly good for such small earbuds.
The Ozlo Sleepbuds represent a welcome return of a beloved sleep aid. By addressing the limitations of the original Bose version and adding valuable new features, the Ozlo team has created a compelling product for those seeking improved sleep quality. The compact and comfortable design, combined with effective noise masking and the convenience of Bluetooth streaming, positions the Ozlo Sleepbuds as a strong contender in the sleep technology market. The hope remains that the battery issues that plagued the Bose Sleepbuds will not be repeated, allowing users to fully enjoy the benefits of this innovative device. Further development and refinement of the companion app will undoubtedly enhance the user experience, but even in its current state, the Ozlo Sleepbuds offer a promising solution for a better night’s rest.
