We were amazed when they first came out with the video baby monitor--good grief, now I can watch my kid sleep? Then, they added movement sensors that sound an alarm if your baby is absolutely still for more than 20 seconds. What will they think of next? We've got the answer to that question: a smart phone monitor app that will also track your baby's sleep patterns and give you tips for improving sleep. Now, if it will get up for the 3am feeding for me, I'm in.
Evoz, the company that designed the new app, came out with its iPhone software earlier this summer, and they are still officially in beta testing. If you have two iOS devices--two iPhones, or an iPhone and an iPad--you can download the free app use the service for free for two weeks. Set one device up in the baby's room, and set your preferences on the other device. Want to listen to everything? They've got that. Want a text when your baby starts crying? Done. Want a phone call when the baby's up? They'll do that, too.
Best of all is that this monitor device has unlimited range, so you can take it into the yard, the attic, the basement, or wherever you need to without losing coverage. And it doesn't receive interference like standard monitors (there's nothing like hearing the kid down the street crying on your monitor). Moreover, the company has produced a particular algorithm that allows the app to tell the difference between crying and background noise, so you won't be alerted every time the dog barks.
If you don't have two iOS devices, you can also order a monitor to pair with the device you do have.
After the first two weeks, you can still use the service for 30 minutes a day for free, but if you want unlimited listening, you'll have to sign up for a monthly fee of a few dollars. Evoz also offers a "parenting dashboard," which analyzes your baby's sleep patterns and compares them to studies done on infant sleep. It will then offer you feedback on how to improve or modify your child's sleep patterns.
It's a pretty high tech solution to the age-old baby monitoring dilemma. What do you think? Would you use the sleep data? Are you willing to pay a small monthly fee for a high tech monitoring solution? We'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments!
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We have a baby monitor, but sometimes its not charged or we just can't find it. We use our droids as a monitor (and to be honest, its way easier. We put on on mute in the baby's room and the other with us (not muted). Easy, and free :) Only problem is that the phone is tied up, but we don't really talk on the phone much at night anyway.
Interesting, but not sure I'd pay a monthly fee for this technology. Also, I'm curious what happens if you are using your iPhone as the monitor and you get a phone call? Does it wake baby? Do you keep your phone on mute? I suppose it would be best if you had an iPad or IPod Touch...
Sorta seems like a solution desperately seeking a problem. Dedicated monitors are likely much cheaper and don't tie up your multitasker iPhone on an isolated unitask.