In the wake of its appearance on Shark Tank, Napwell, the innovative sleep mask with a built-in alarm system, faced a journey laden with challenges and successes. While the product initially garnered attention for its unique features aimed at optimizing power napping, subsequent developments unfolded in the aftermath of the televised pitch.
From a successful Kickstarter campaign to the realities of production delays and customer feedback, the post-Shark Tank trajectory of Napwell unveils a narrative encompassing triumphs, setbacks, and the entrepreneurial resilience required to navigate the complexities of bringing a sleep innovation to market.
What Is Napwell:
Napwell is not just a sleeping mask; it was designed and built by engineers from MIT and Stanford, inspired by nature’s sunrise. The mask tracks your nap time and when it’s time to wake up, lights on the interior begin to brighten, gradually bringing you out of sleep [1].
Napwell, a novel sleep mask with an integrated alarm clock, was designed to provide a gentle waking experience after a restful night’s sleep. Crafted by engineers hailing from the prestigious MIT and Stanford, this innovative device utilized graded lighting to achieve its purpose.
Pros:
Customizable Nap Duration:
One of Napwell’s standout features is its ability to customize the duration of the nap. Users can set the mask to gradually wake them up after a specified period, ensuring they don’t oversleep or wake up abruptly. This tailored approach to nap timing caters to individual preferences and contributes to a more refreshing nap experience.
Gradual Wake-up Mechanism:
Napwell’s gradual wake-up mechanism is a game-changer. Unlike traditional alarms that jolt you awake, Napwell simulates a natural sunrise by slowly increasing the intensity of light. This gentle wake-up process can alleviate the grogginess associated with sudden awakenings, promoting a smoother transition from nap to wakefulness.
Comfortable Design:
The ergonomic design of Napwell prioritizes comfort, featuring a soft, breathable mask that contours to the face without causing discomfort. The materials used are hypoallergenic, making it suitable for individuals with sensitive skin. The lightweight design ensures that users can comfortably wear the mask without feeling weighed down during their nap [2].
Built-in Audio Features:
Napwell’s integration of audio features sets it apart from conventional sleep masks. Users have the option to incorporate soothing sounds or music into their nap routine, contributing to a more serene and relaxing environment. This dual functionality makes Napwell not just a sleep aid but also a tool for creating a personalized, immersive nap experience.
Portable and Travel-Friendly:
The compact and foldable design of Napwell makes it highly portable, catering to those who need a quick nap on the go. Whether traveling or taking a break at the office, the mask can easily be stowed away in a bag or pocket, allowing users to prioritize their nap routine wherever they are.
Innovative Concept
The concept behind Napwell is innovative and addresses a common problem many people face – being jolted awake by a traditional alarm clock. The Napwell mask gradually wakes you up with a series of lights that increase in intensity, mimicking a sunrise1. This feature can make waking up a more pleasant experience, potentially reducing grogginess and improving mood.
Potential Health Benefits
The Napwell mask could potentially offer some health benefits. It is believed that being awoken during the wrong stage of sleep can result in feelings of tiredness and disorientation4. By mimicking a natural sunrise and gradually waking the user, the Napwell mask could help mitigate these effects.
User-friendly Design
Napwell’s design is user-friendly. It comes with a built-in alarm clock, making it easy to set your nap time and wake-up time5. The mask is also comfortable to wear, which is essential for a product designed to aid sleep.
Cons:
Limited Light Customization
While Napwell offers a gradual wake-up mechanism, the customization options for the light intensity are somewhat limited. Some users may find that the default settings do not match their preference for brightness, potentially impacting the effectiveness of the wake-up experience. A more adjustable light feature could enhance the user experience.
Price Point
The cost of Napwell may be a deterrent for some consumers. Compared to traditional sleep masks, Napwell comes with a higher price tag due to its innovative features. This premium pricing may limit its accessibility to a broader audience, especially considering the availability of more affordable alternatives in the market.
Dependency on Battery
Like many modern gadgets, Napwell relies on a rechargeable battery. While the battery life is reasonable, users may find it inconvenient to have their nap interrupted if the battery runs out unexpectedly. A longer battery life or a user-friendly indicator for remaining battery power could alleviate this concern.
Learning Curve for New Users
Some users may find it takes time to adjust to Napwell’s features, especially if they are not accustomed to using sleep masks or gadgets during naps. Learning how to set the duration, customize light settings, and integrate audio features may pose a slight learning curve for individuals looking for a simple solution to enhance their napping experience.
Limited Market Appeal
Despite its innovative features and potential benefits, Napwell may not appeal to everyone. Lori Greiner from Shark Tank believed that while the mask could have potential benefits, the vast majority of people suffering from sleep problems might not find it helpful. This could limit the market reach of the product.
High Price Point
The price point of the Napwell mask could be another potential drawback. While the exact price is not mentioned in the sources, high-tech sleep aids often come at a premium. This could deter potential buyers who are looking for a more affordable solution to their sleep problems.
Lack of Clinical Evidence
While the premise of Napwell is intriguing, there is a lack of clinical evidence supporting the effectiveness of the product. Without concrete scientific data, it’s hard to ascertain whether the mask can indeed improve sleep quality or reduce feelings of grogginess upon waking.
Who May Benefit From Using?
Professionals and Workers:
- Individuals working in high-stress environments or long hours may benefit from Napwell during short breaks or downtime;
- Professionals seeking a quick energy boost without the grogginess associated with traditional alarms can use Napwell to optimize their nap experience [3];
Students:
Students, especially those facing demanding academic schedules, can use Napwell to enhance their productivity and focus by incorporating short, efficient naps into their study routines.
Frequent Travelers:
Napwell’s portability makes it an ideal companion for frequent travelers who may need to recharge during long flights or while adjusting to different time zones.
Shift Workers:
Individuals working irregular hours, such as shift workers, can use Napwell to improve the quality of their naps and aid in adjusting to varying sleep schedules.
Health Enthusiasts:
Those who prioritize overall health and well-being may incorporate Napwell into their daily routine to optimize their sleep patterns and promote better mental and physical performance.
Creative Professionals:
Artists, writers, and other creative professionals may find Napwell beneficial for boosting creativity and overcoming mental fatigue during the workday.
Business Travelers:
Executives and business travelers who need to stay sharp and alert during meetings or important events can use Napwell to ensure they are well-rested and focused.
People with Sleep Disorders:
Individuals dealing with sleep disorders such as insomnia or irregular sleep patterns may find Napwell helpful in establishing a structured and effective approach to napping.
Fitness Enthusiasts:
Athletes and fitness enthusiasts may leverage Napwell as part of their recovery routine, aiding in quicker recovery and improved performance.
Remote Workers:
With the rise of remote work, individuals working from home may use Napwell to take advantage of short breaks, maintaining productivity throughout the day.
About the Founders Of Napwell
In 2013, when he reconnected with Justin Lee, a former classmate boasting an impressive resume, their collaboration became even more potent. Justin holds a Bachelor of Science in Physics from MIT and a Doctorate in Health, Science, and Technology from a Harvard-MIT joint program. Justin’s unique claim to fame was his CNN-featured project where he placed a digital camera into orbit to capture Earth, a venture that incurred a $ 150 expenditure.
United by a common goal of enhancing people’s productivity and efficiency, the duo embarked on a venture without a specific product in mind. Their approach was problem-centric, addressing inefficiencies across various domains to find innovative solutions.
Recognizing the drawbacks of waking up abruptly, often resulting in sleep inertia and a hazy feeling due to disrupted sleep cycles, they conceptualized Napwell. This sleeping mask, born from the minds of entrepreneurial visionaries, replicates a gradual sunrise to gently rouse the user from sleep.
Positioning Napwell as a power-napping gadget tailored for the demands of busy professionals, Joglekar and Lee turned to the crowdfunding platform Kickstarter to garner support for the device’s initial setup and production costs. Their innovative approach to problem-solving and commitment to improving efficiency reflected in their venture, paving the way for the creation of Napwell [5].
When it came to entrepreneurial ventures, this wasn’t Joglekar’s initial foray into the arena. He had previously established a tutoring enterprise based in California and a video platform named ReelSurfer (as indicated on LinkedIn). Concurrently, Joglekar was offering counsel and financial support to emerging technology enterprises.
With Lee having attained a Ph.D. in medical engineering and medical physics from MIT (as mentioned on LinkedIn), the co-founders possessed ample qualifications to present their arguments.
The Pitch Of Napwell At Shark Tank
Neil and Justin made an unconventional appearance on the show, donning pajamas and dressing gowns, a departure from the usual attire seen by entrepreneurs. Their unique pitch began with a request for a $ 100,000 investment, offering 10% equity in the Napwell business [6].
Despite Neil’s eloquent pitch, Justin, his business partner, struggled to maintain alertness during the presentation, exhibiting signs of weariness such as yawning and stretching. Neil explained Justin’s state as a “Sleep Zombie”, representing the 40% of people facing a similar issue. The effect was so convincing that even Mark Cuban and other sharks began to yawn, creating a whimsical atmosphere in the tank.
Justin, reviving from his ‘Sleep Zombie’ act, delved into the science of sleep stages and the problem of sleep inertia caused by interrupted sleep patterns. Napwell, the solution they presented, featured LED lights that mimicked a gentle sunrise, aiming to alleviate the sluggishness and lethargy associated with sleep inertia. The entrepreneurs urged the sharks to join their mission to help the world nap more efficiently, coining the term “Naptimize”.
Prototypes of the mask were distributed to the sharks, showcasing the alarm-setting capability for preferred waking times, applicable for quick naps or overnight use. As the sharks experimented with the prototypes, the tank witnessed moments of amusement and skepticism.
Mark Cuban questioned the necessity of Napwell, asserting that power naps were familiar to all and expressing a lack of need for such a product. However, Lori Greiner defended the entrepreneurs, sharing her own post-nap crankiness and suggesting that the mask could address this issue.
The conversation shifted to the entrepreneurs’ backgrounds, with Justin detailing his impressive academic achievements at MIT and Harvard, including a project for the Gates Foundation involving drone delivery of vaccines. The sharks expressed admiration for Justin’s credentials but questioned the choice of a sleeping mask as a product.
Neil clarified their strategy, explaining that extensive research led them to identify a significant demand for sleeping masks. He emphasized that Napwell addressed the common problem of sleep inertia, affecting 2 out of 5 people, and shared insights from their Kickstarter campaign where backers tested the mask, refining it before final production.
However, Mark Cuban expressed surprise at the entrepreneurs seeking funding from the sharks instead of Silicon Valley investors given their impressive credentials. Justin’s response, indicating a lack of familiarity with start-ups, raised suspicions from Mark.
Despite Neil’s attempts to clarify their approach and validate the product before seeking funding, Mark Cuban remained unconvinced and swiftly exited the deal. Kevin O’Leary raised concerns about Napwell’s lack of sales beyond the initial crowdfunding campaign, describing the journey ahead as a ‘Journey to Hell’ and opting out.
Lori Greiner expressed reservations about the mask’s appeal to a broad market, particularly those with difficulties falling asleep. She saw limited potential for widespread sales and chose to bow out. Robert, while philosophical, was unimpressed, considering the product inconsequential and dropping out.
Daymond John, the last hope for Neil and Justin, believed they entered the tank prematurely and needed a solid proof of concept before seeking further investment. With that, he joined the other sharks in rejecting the Napwell pitch.
As they left the tank, the entrepreneurs seemed indifferent to the sharks’ opinions, with Lori offering a parting compliment on their attire. Despite their unconventional approach, Napwell failed to secure an investment in the highly competitive Shark Tank [7].
Napwell After The Shark Tank
Even for those who received their orders, satisfaction seemed elusive. A customer expressed disappointment, stating, “I am saddened that the mask turned out to be a big disappointment.” Concerns included subpar detailing, flimsy materials, a small and impractical display that couldn’t be turned off without removing the battery, and overall discomfort during use, leading to a consensus that the investment was regrettable.
Furthermore, the link to Napwell’s website is no longer active, and their X account appears to have been inactive since 2015.
Joglekar and Lee, however, appear to have moved on to new and more significant endeavors. As indicated on their LinkedIn profiles, Joglekar is currently serving as Google’s Group Project Manager, while Lee holds the position of Director of Machine Learning and Imaging at PathAI.
The Net Worth Of Napwell
Despite not getting a deal on Shark Tank, the Napwell team continued their efforts to market their product. However, they faced challenges, such as the relatively high price tag of $ 100 for the Napwell mask, which could deter potential customers. They would need substantial marketing efforts to overcome this hurdle.
While specific figures regarding Napwell’s financial success post-Shark Tank are not publicly available, it’s evident that the founders have continued to pursue other opportunities. For instance, according to his LinkedIn profile, Neil Joglekar has moved on to other ventures.
Alternatives To Napwell:
Dreem:
Dreem is a smart headband designed to enhance sleep quality. It monitors brain activity, heart rate, and movement, providing personalized insights to improve sleep patterns. While it focuses more on overnight sleep tracking and improvement, it may appeal to those looking for a comprehensive sleep solution.
Manta Sleep Mask:
Manta Sleep Mask is a contoured sleep mask designed for comfort and complete blackout. It doesn’t have Napwell’s customizable wake-up features, but it is a more affordable option for those seeking a simple, comfortable sleep mask.
Dodow:
Dodow is a light-based sleep aid device that helps users fall asleep faster. While it doesn’t focus on napping, it may appeal to individuals looking for a non-intrusive way to improve their overall sleep quality.
Pzizz:
Pzizz is an app that provides customizable audio tracks to aid relaxation and sleep. While not a physical device like Napwell, it can be an alternative for those who prefer audio-based solutions to enhance their napping or sleeping experience.
Sleep Shepherd Blue:
Sleep Shepherd Blue is a headband that monitors brainwaves and uses binaural beats to guide the brain into a state of restful sleep. It is designed for overnight use but may be an option for those seeking advanced sleep tracking and enhancement features.
Philips SmartSleep:
Philips SmartSleep is a wearable sleep enhancement headband that focuses on improving the quality of deep sleep. It uses sound tones to enhance slow-wave sleep, potentially appealing to those looking for a solution beyond traditional sleep masks.
Gravity Blankets:
Gravity Blankets are weighted blankets designed to provide a sense of calm and relaxation. While not specifically for napping, they can be an alternative for individuals seeking a non-intrusive way to improve sleep quality.
SleepPhones:
SleepPhones are comfortable headband-style headphones designed for sleep. They allow users to listen to music or white noise while napping without the bulk of traditional headphones.
Nidra Deep Rest Eye Mask:
The Nidra Deep Rest Eye Mask is a simple and affordable sleep mask that provides complete blackout. While lacking the customizable features of Napwell, it is a straightforward option for those seeking a comfortable and effective sleep mask.
FAQ:
- Who invented the Napwell Sleep Mask?
The Napwell Sleep Mask was invented by Neil Joglekar and Justin Lee, entrepreneurs with backgrounds in technology and academia.
- How much money did Napwell Sleep Mask raise on Kickstarter?
Napwell Sleep Mask surpassed its funding goal of $ 30,000 on Kickstarter, raising over $ 50,000 with the support of more than 700 backers.
- How much did the Napwell Sleep Mask cost?
The Napwell Sleep Mask was initially priced at $ 100. However, the cost and retail price were subject to adjustments, especially if the product garnered further investment.
- Is the Napwell Mask long-lasting?
Details about the long-term durability of the Napwell Mask may vary. Users’ experiences, reviews, and any provided product information would be essential in assessing its longevity.
- Was the Napwell machine washable?
Information regarding the machine-washability of the Napwell Mask may depend on the materials used. Care instructions and guidelines would be provided by the manufacturer.
- What materials was the Napwell Sleep Mask made of?
The Napwell Sleep Mask was crafted from specific materials designed for comfort and functionality. Details about the materials used in its construction would be available from the manufacturer.
- Were Napwell Mask user-friendly?
The Napwell Mask aimed to be user-friendly, offering features such as customizable nap duration and a gradual wake-up mechanism. User reviews and instructions provided by the company would offer insights into its ease of use.
- Where was the Napwell Mask made?
Information about the manufacturing location of the Napwell Mask would be available from the company. It is essential to check product specifications or contact the manufacturer for precise details.
- Was the Napwell Sleep Mask patented?
Details about the patent status of the Napwell Sleep Mask would be available through official channels or from the company. This information is crucial for understanding the product’s uniqueness and intellectual property protection.
- What were the strengths of the Napwell Sleep Mask?
The strengths of the Napwell Sleep Mask include its innovative features, such as the customizable nap duration, gradual wake-up mechanism, and use of LED lights to simulate a gentle sunrise. User reviews and expert assessments would provide more insights into its strengths.
Useful Video: Napwell Kickstarter Video
References:
- https://sharktankrecap.com/napwell-update-shark-tank-season-6/
- https://www.healthdigest.com/1412194/where-napwell-alarm-clock-mask-from-shark-tank-season-6-today/
- https://www.krishnabogati.com.np/what-is-napwell-shark-tank-napwell-update/
- https://www.sharktankblog.com/business/napwell/
- https://gazettereview.com/2016/09/napwell-update-happened-shark-tank/
- https://www.sharktanksuccess.com/napwell-sleep-mask/
- https://geeksaroundglobe.com/napwell-net-worth-update-before-after-shark-tank/
- https://startupreneurship.com/what-happened-to-napwell-sleep-mask-after-shark-tank-pitch/
- https://2paragraphs.com/2016/02/napwell-founder-works-with-army-general-stanley-mcchrystal-who-sleeps-4-hoursday/
