FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about SomniCue and sleep learning. Can't find what you're looking for? Contact us.
How It Works
What is Targeted Memory Reactivation (TMR)?
TMR is a neuroscience technique that uses sensory cues (like sounds) during sleep to strengthen specific memories. When you study with SomniCue, audio cues become associated with what you're learning. During deep sleep, these same cues are replayed at low volume, triggering your brain to "replay" and consolidate those memories.
Will the audio cues wake me up?
No. SomniCue plays cues at very low volumes during deep sleep (N3 stage) when your brain is receptive but unlikely to wake. The Smart Watch monitors your sleep stages and only delivers cues during safe windows. If movement is detected, cues pause automatically.
Is this the same as sleep hypnosis or playing lectures while sleeping?
No—those don't work and research proves it. Your brain tunes out continuous audio during sleep. TMR is different: it uses brief cues (not content) that were associated with learning during waking hours. These cues trigger memory reactivation, not new learning.
How long until I see results?
Most users report improved recall within 1-2 weeks of consistent use. The key is pairing daytime study with overnight reinforcement. TMR enhances consolidation but doesn't replace active learning—you still need to study during the day.
Devices & Setup
What do I need to use SomniCue?
Just a Smart Phone. The app works on its own with sound cues during study and manual sleep scheduling — no extra hardware needed. You can optionally add an Smart Watch (Series 6+) for automatic deep sleep detection, silent haptic cues, and the Flicker Trigger™ gesture. You can also add the Smart Diffuser for scent-based TMR — the most effective modality in the research. Each layer is optional and adds effectiveness.
Do I need an Smart Watch?
No — the app works without one. An Smart Watch (Series 6+ with watchOS 10+) enables automatic deep sleep detection so cues fire only during N3 slow-wave sleep, silent haptic cues that won't wake your partner, and the Flicker Trigger™ gesture for tagging key moments. Without a Watch, SomniCue uses manual scheduling to spread cues across your sleep window. It still works, but targeting is less precise.
Do I need the Smart Diffuser?
No — you can use SomniCue with just the app (sound cues) or app + Watch (sound + haptic cues). The diffuser adds scent-based TMR, which is the modality used in the landmark 97% improvement study (Rasch et al., 2007). It's the most effective option, but it's not required. The VIP package includes the diffuser, but if you only want the app, Kickstarter backers still get Lifetime Pro access.
How long does setup take?
About 5 minutes. Download the app, grant HealthKit permissions (if using Smart Watch), create your first study item, and you're ready. The Smart Watch app installs automatically if you have one paired.
Subscriptions & Pricing
What does the Kickstarter VIP deal include?
Every Kickstarter backer gets Lifetime Pro app access — no monthly fees, no annual renewals, every future update included forever. The full VIP package also includes the Smart Diffuser and 3 scent cartridges (~90 nights). Even if you only want the app, your $1 VIP deposit locks in Lifetime access that would otherwise cost $12.99/month after launch.
How much does the app cost after launch?
After launch, SomniCue Pro will cost $12.99/month or $99.99/year (save 36%). New users will get a 7-day free trial. Kickstarter backers skip all of this — you get Lifetime Pro access included with your pledge, saving you $155+ per year, every year, forever.
Will there be a free tier?
Yes. After launch, a limited free tier will include: 3 study items, 2–3 active items per night, 2 cues per item, sound-only cues, and manual sleep scheduling. It's enough to try TMR and see if it works for you. Pro unlocks everything: unlimited items, HealthKit sleep detection, Flicker Trigger™, Smart Watch support, advanced analytics, and more.
What do I get with Pro?
Pro unlocks: unlimited study items, up to 5 active items per night, 2–5 cues per item, sound + haptic + scent cues, HealthKit sleep detection, Flicker Trigger™, Smart Watch app, advanced analytics, and cloud sync. Kickstarter backers get all of this for life.
How do I cancel my subscription?
You can cancel anytime through your Phone's Settings → Apple ID → Subscriptions → SomniCue. Your Pro features remain active until the end of your current billing period. Note: Kickstarter backers with Lifetime access don't have a subscription to cancel — your access never expires.
Do you offer student discounts?
The Kickstarter campaign is the best deal we'll ever offer — 57% off retail plus Lifetime Pro app access. Since most of our users are students, we designed the Kickstarter pricing to be as accessible as possible. Post-launch, we're exploring student pricing options.
Using SomniCue
What subjects work best with SomniCue?
TMR works best for declarative memory—facts, terminology, vocabulary, and associations. Great for: medical terminology, language vocabulary, history dates, biology terms, chemistry formulas, and any subject requiring memorization. Less effective for: procedural skills, complex problem-solving, or conceptual understanding.
How many items should I study per night?
Quality over quantity. We recommend 3-5 active items per night with Pro. Focus on your weakest topics rather than trying to reinforce everything. Too many items dilutes the effectiveness.
What is the Flicker Trigger™?
Flicker Trigger is our patent-pending gesture feature. During study, shake your wrist when you have an "aha moment" or encounter a difficult concept. This tags that moment for priority replay during sleep, creating stronger memory anchors. Requires Smart Watch, included with Pro (free for all Kickstarter backers).
Can I use SomniCue with Anki/Quizlet?
Absolutely! SomniCue complements flashcard apps. Use Anki or Quizlet for active recall during the day, then add your toughest cards to SomniCue for overnight reinforcement. They work great together.
Privacy & Data
How is my data protected?
Your data is encrypted at rest (AES-256) and in transit (TLS 1.3). HealthKit sleep data is processed locally and never leaves your device. We never sell your data. See our Privacy Policy for full details.
What HealthKit data do you access?
SomniCue only accesses sleep analysis data to detect sleep stages. We don't access heart rate, activity, or other health data. All HealthKit data is processed on-device and never uploaded to our servers.
Can I delete my data?
Yes. You can delete your account and all associated data from Settings → Account → Delete Account. Data is permanently removed within 30 days. You can also export your data before deletion.
Still Have Questions?
We're here to help. Reach out and we'll get back to you as soon as possible.
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