Bengaluru: As sleep disorders become increasingly common in India, artificial intelligence (AI) is playing a major role in helping people establish healthier sleep routines. According to a new study, 52 per cent of Indians are now using AI-powered voice assistants to regulate their bedtime habits.

Conducted by YouGov in collaboration with Amazon Alexa, the study surveyed 1,000 respondents across 10 cities ahead of World Sleep Day on March 14. It found that voice assistants are particularly popular among individuals aged 35-45, surpassing usage among those in the 25-34 age group.

The research also highlighted the importance of consistency in sleep patterns. More than half (53 per cent) of respondents reported experiencing sleep disturbances when they failed to follow a regular bedtime schedule. Conversely, 54 per cent noticed a notable improvement in their sleep quality after maintaining a steady routine.

"Sleep routines are gaining traction, and it's fascinating to see how smart technologies, particularly voice assistants like Alexa, are becoming an integral part of bedtime habits," said Teena Sidana, Country Manager for Alexa India. "AI-driven voice experiences offer a hands-free, screen-free alternative for winding down before bed, making them a practical choice over traditional handheld devices."

From playing meditation tracks and soothing sounds to audiobooks, music and even setting reminders and alarms, users are integrating Alexa into their nightly rituals in creative ways. With the Alexa app, individuals can personalise their bedtime routines to suit their preferences, Sidana added.

The study also revealed that families with children are increasingly turning to voice assistants to create a calming sleep environment. Around 45 per cent use smart devices to stream relaxing audio content such as music, podcasts, meditation playlists and ambient sounds. Meanwhile, 23 per cent rely on AI for setting reminders and alarms, and 22 per cent use it to control smart home appliances like bedroom lighting, automated curtains and air conditioning.

Looking ahead, more than half of the respondents expressed interest in incorporating wellness activities into their nighttime routines. These include meditation, journaling, light exercise and skincare rituals. Notably, couples—with or without children—showed a greater inclination (32 per cent) towards adding meditation and journaling to their bedtime habits.

As AI-driven solutions continue to evolve, they are poised to play an even greater role in shaping healthier sleep habits for Indians.

IANS